How soon can I swim after a tattoo?

Author: Ulises Heller III  |  Last update: Sunday, August 10, 2025

It is generally not safe to swim with a new tattoo after just one week. Most tattoos require at least 2-4 weeks to heal properly. Swimming too soon can increase the risk of infection and damage to the tattoo.

How do I know if my tattoo is healed enough to swim?

You should wait at least 2--4 weeks before swimming after getting a tattoo, but the time it takes to heal varies from person to person. You should avoid getting your tattoo wet, except when washing it, for the first 3--6 weeks.

Can I go swimming 1 week after a tattoo?

Swimming should be avoided until your tattoo is fully healed, which usually takes about two to four weeks. Submerging a fresh tattoo in water can increase the risk of infection and affect the ink's vibrancy.

How long after a tattoo can you fully submerge it?

Tattoos shouldn't be fully submerged in water (in the way they would be while swimming) until they are fully healed. This usually takes about 6 weeks.

How do I protect my tattoo when swimming?

Take these precautions to maintain your tattoo's appearance and protect your skin:
  1. Apply a waterproof tattoo cover before entering the water.
  2. Limit your pool time to 30 minutes.
  3. Rinse with clean water immediately after swimming.
  4. Pat dry with a clean towel, never rub.

How Long After Getting a Tattoo Can You Go Swim? | Sorry Mom

Can you put Vaseline on a new tattoo before swimming?

How to waterproof a tattoo for swimming. If you have to go swimming, you should make sure your tattoo is fully covered with a waterproof dressing, plus you can add some Vaseline too. Once you're out of the water, it's best to remove the dressing straight away and rinse the tattoo with warm, fresh water.

What happens if you submerge a tattoo too early?

Yes, if you soak your tattoo immediately after getting it, your new tattoo may fade more quickly. Worse, soaking your tattoo can cause infection, flaking, itching, and scabbing, so don't soak your tattoo.

Why is my tattoo fading after 3 days?

Don't worry, this is completely natural. It happens because the old skin, damaged during the tattooing process, forms a thin layer over your tattoo and masks its true appearance. In time this old skin will naturally exfoliate itself, revealing your tattoo underneath in all its vibrant glory.

How long before a tattoo can get wet?

A person should avoid submerging the tattoo in water or getting the tattoo wet during the first 3–6 weeks, except for when washing it.

Can I put sunscreen on a new tattoo?

Until your tattoo is fully healed, you cannot apply any type of sunscreen, and it's really best to just avoid exposing the area to any direct sunlight whatsoever. If you plan to be outside in the sun with a new tattoo, then your best and safest protection is to keep the area covered with loose clothing.

How long after a tattoo can you shave?

Eaves recommends allowing your new tattoo anywhere between two weeks to a month to fully heal before shaving (you can find his tattoo aftercare tips here) — this means no scabbing, peeling or shininess on or around the site of the tattoo. Once your tattoo is fully healed, however, shave as your heart desires.

How long after a tattoo can I swim in chlorine?

You can swim in chlorine once your tattoo has fully healed, which usually takes up to 4 weeks.

Can I go in a hot tub 2 weeks after a tattoo?

Avoid hot tubs for the first two to four weeks to allow your tattoo the time it needs to heal properly. And after this period, use caution by limiting your exposure and ensuring that your hot tub water is clean and balanced.

How long after a tattoo can I go in the sun?

Sun Protection for New Tattoos

New tattoos fade very quickly when exposed to sunlight. In addition, if your tattoo has not completely healed yet, exposing the area to sunlight could result in blistering. In general, you should keep a new tattoo completely protected from the sun for at least three to four weeks.

Why do tattoo lines get thicker?

Natural migration of pigment in the skin is manifested by: lines become visually wider; a small (about a millimeter) shadow may appear near the tattoo lines; there will be less empty space between the lines.

Does tattoo ink spread over time?

Tattoo ink does spread naturally as the skin ages, but the rate depends on several factors. Natural Ink Spread: Over years, pigment particles move slightly, softening lines and blurring details. Thicker skin (back, thighs) spreads less, while thinner skin (wrists, fingers) spreads more.

What can I cover my tattoo with to go swimming?

However, if swimming is unavoidable, the next best option is to cover your tattoo with a waterproof bandage like Sanaderm, Tegaderm, or medical retention tape. Make sure to apply the bandage immediately before swimming to avoid as much sweat buildup as possible beforehand.

How soon after getting a tattoo can I shower?

Yes, you can shower after getting a new tattoo, but it's important to follow a few key steps to protect your new art. It's generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before jumping into the shower.

Is Aquaphor good for tattoos?

Eucerin Aquaphor's gentle and non-irritating formula helps to alleviate discomfort, itchiness, and redness associated with brand new tattoos. By providing a soothing and calming effect, it allows the skin to heal undisturbed, promoting a smoother and more comfortable recovery.

How to speed up tattoo healing?

7 Hacks To Help Heal Your New Tattoo
  1. Relax and Stay Calm. First things first, relax. ...
  2. Say No to Re-Bandaging. ...
  3. Let Your Tattoo Breathe—No Picking Allowed. ...
  4. Avoid Baths, Pools, and Hot Tubs. ...
  5. Stay Out of the Sun (For Now) ...
  6. Embrace Healthy Lifestyle Habits.

When should I stop putting lotion on my tattoo?

You'll want to begin soon after you get the tattoo done and continue moisturizing the skin three to six times a day for about three weeks. In addition, wash the tattoo once or twice a day, avoid direct sunlight, and save that ocean dip for after it's healed.

When should I stop washing my tattoo?

You should continue washing your tattoo until it is fully healed. It is considered fully healed when all scabs have fallen off, and the skin has regenerated and closed up. This process generally takes between 2 to 4 weeks.

Previous article
How many microneedling sessions for under eyes?
Next article
Does microdermabrasion dry out your skin?