10 Tips for Getting Tattooed in the Summer

Summer is the season of fun and sun, and its free-spirited energy and skin-baring styles make it a popular time to get a tattoo. However, hot weather, sunlight, and sweat bring extra challenges for healing and long-term results. With a little planning and the right aftercare, your summer tattoo can stay sharp and vibrant without setbacks.

Can I Get a Tattoo in the Summer?

Yes. Getting tattooed in the summer is totally fine, but it does come with extra precautions. UV rays, high temperatures, and outdoor activities can affect healing and color retention. You don’t have to put your plans on hold—just be smart about timing, protection, and aftercare. Taking the right care before and after your session helps your tattoo heal clean and look fresh for years.

Tips to Prepare for a Tattoo in Summertime

Before you book your session or step into the sun with fresh ink, check out these practical tips for getting a tattoo in the summer.

1. Choose Your Timing Wisely

Try to schedule your appointment around your summer plans. Avoid getting tattooed right before vacations, beach days, or outdoor festivals. Your skin needs time to heal, and crowded, sunny spots are full of risks like sand, sunburn, and bacteria.

2. Stay Out of the Sun

Fresh tattoos are extremely sensitive to UV rays. Sun exposure can fade your ink fast and increase the risk of blistering. Cover your fresh tattoo with loose clothing when outdoors. Once it's fully healed, use high-SPF sunscreen to protect it long-term.

3. Avoid Swimming

That cool water might feel nice on your skin, but pools, lakes, and the ocean are full of bacteria that can cause infections. Chlorine can also damage your healing tattoo. Wait at least 2–3 weeks before swimming, or until your artist confirms it's safe.

4. Keep It Clean, Not Soaked

Clean your tattoo daily with mild soap and water. Gently pat the area dry, being careful not to rub. Skip long showers and never soak it in a tub. Too much moisture can break down the scab and delay healing.

5. Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing

Stick with soft, lightweight fabrics that don’t rub against your tattoo. Tight clothing can cause friction, trap sweat, and irritate your skin. Breathable layers are especially helpful for summer tattoo aftercare.

6. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is a crucial part of summer tattoo aftercare. Drinking water keeps your skin healthy and supports faster healing. Dehydrated skin is more prone to cracking and flaking. This matters even more when you're getting a tattoo in the summer heat.

7. Use Quality Tattoo Aftercare Products

Choose tattoo aftercare products made for healing ink. Look for fragrance-free lotions and ointments that keep your skin moisturized without clogging pores. Avoid petroleum-based formulas during hot weather, as they can trap heat and bacteria.

8. Minimize Sweating

Excessive sweat can irritate your fresh tattoo and increase infection risk (and it’s not comfortable, either). For the first few days, avoid heavy workouts or anything that gets you drenched. If you do sweat, rinse your tattoo gently and pat it dry right away.

9. Don’t Pick or Scratch

Your tattoo will scab and itch as it heals. That’s normal. Scratching or peeling can cause scars, patchy color, and even infection. Keep it moisturized and let the skin flake off naturally. If you just can’t stand it, an occasional ice pack wrapped in a clean, dry cloth can be a handy helper to numb the itch without excess moisture. Never directly touch the ice pack to the tattooed skin.

10. Listen to Your Artist

Your tattoo artist knows how to guide you through summer healing. Follow their instructions closely, even if you think they’re overly cautious. Ask about your artist’s recommended aftercare routine and check in with them if you notice anything unusual like redness, swelling, or discharge.

Hot Weather, Cool Threads

Once your tattoo has healed, it’s time to show it off. Summer is the perfect excuse to update your wardrobe with gear that keeps you cool and highlights your ink. From sleeveless tees to relaxed-fit shorts, Sullen Clothing has styles that complement every tattoo, no matter if it’s bright and fresh or well-worn and faded.

We design pieces that look good and feel right in the heat. Our clothing doesn’t just show off your tattoos—it gives you room to breathe and move. Whether you're hitting a BBQ, skate spot, or just cooling down after a long day, we've got something that fits your summer style.

Shop now and grab some tattoo-inspired attire to go with your new ink this season.