How To Waterproof A Tattoo For Swimming 

Summer is the ideal time to put on your swimsuit and show off your skin. However, now is not the time to go swimming with fresh ink. 

If you have a new tattoo, your skin is still sore and sensitive, similar to an open wound.  

So, ideally, it should only get wet when you’re cleaning around it or taking a shower.   

In fact, experts advise you to avoid all water activities until your skin heals. 

However, there may be times when you absolutely must go swimming during this period. 

Perhaps you are undergoing physical therapy or rehab, or you are dealing with an emergency. 

Whatever the reason, you’ll be relieved to know that there are a few quick fixes available. 

Wrapping the tattoo in plastic wrap is one example, as is covering it with a medical sealant. 

Continue reading for more information on how to waterproof a tattoo for swimming. 

1. Wrap The Tattoo In Plastic Wrap

Tattoo artists actually recommend covering your ink with plastic wraps, such as Saran Wrap. 

Swimming while covered in tattoos 

It’s ideal for the first few nights of sleeping with fresh ink, and it’s also a simple way to keep tattoos nice and dry. 

Remember to first apply a thin layer of ointment or a mild moisturizer. Then, cover it with gauze or a paper towel. 

They form an airtight barrier, limiting the amount of moisture that can enter and affect your skin. 

In short, it’s an excellent way to reduce the risk of infection while also accelerating the healing process. 

However, the less plastic wrap you use to cover your tattoo, the better. 

Remember that in order for your skin to return to normal, it must be able to breathe, which it cannot do if it is covered. 

2. Apply a medical sealant to the plastic.

A medical sealant is a type of surgical glue that doctors use to close wounds. As a result, they are a no-hassle solution for waterproofing new tattoos. 

SkinLock is a brand that many tattoo artists swear by. 

a tattooed swimmer 

It’s simple to use, and the best part is that it works in 30 seconds or less, which is quite fast. 

For even coverage, apply 3-4 coats per day. 

The sealant will then fall off on its own after about 7-10 days. 

This should give the skin time to heal while keeping the tattoo intact. 

3. Vaseline Alternatives That Are Safer

Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, should not be used for tattoo aftercare. For one thing, it restricts airflow and traps moisture. 

Furthermore, it traps dirt and bacteria, which can cause skin irritation. 

A tattooed swimmer drinks in the pool 

Fresh tattoos, for example, can cause more harm than good. 

The good news is that there are a few alternatives to using Vaseline to waterproof your skin art, such as those listed below: 

• The oil of coconut 
• Chocolate butter 
• Shea nut butter 
• Skin cream designed specifically for tattoo aftercare 
• Skin moisturizer with no alcohol or fragrance, such as Eucerin or Lubriderm 

After gently washing and drying your skin, apply any of these substitutes. 

Then, 3-4 times per day, apply a thin layer over the tattoo. 

4. Take Care of Your Tattoo Right After Swimming

Assume you couldn’t resist the urge and had to go swimming. What steps do you take after that to protect your ink and keep your skin healthy and free of inflammations? 

Let’s pretend you covered your tattoo with a waterproof dressing or wrap for the sake of argument. 

Tattoo care after swimming 

Saniderm, an adhesive medical waterproof tattoo bandage, is one of our favorites. 

It’s pliable, breathable, and, best of all, comes in a variety of roll and sheet sizes for added convenience. 

Keep in mind that the longer the tattoo is covered, the longer it will take to heal. 

As a result, remove the dressing as soon as you get out of the water. 

Rinse and pat dry the dressing with lukewarm water. 

Then, gently peel it off and wash your skin with mild soap or an antibacterial wash and water. 

Finally, pat your skin down with a soft, clean towel. 

Apply a healing ointment or skin cream as a final precaution to help reduce skin inflammations. 

They can also aid in the preservation of the design and color of your tattoo. 

How Long Should You Wait After Getting A New Tattoo Before Going Swimming? 

While everyone is different, the general consensus is that tattoos take 2 to 4 weeks to heal. 

However, for some, it can take up to three months for the skin to fully recover. 

It is primarily determined by the size and type of tattoo, as well as your skin type and aftercare routine. 

As a result, you should avoid exposing your new ink to chlorine or saltwater during this time. 

Swimming With a New Tattoo Is Dangerous 

Here are some of the dangers of swimming with a new tattoo. 

Swimming In The Pool 

Chlorine is used in swimming pools to kill algae and bacterial growth. 

However, chlorine is a chemical that can irritate the skin around your tattoo. 

This can result in rashes, itching, and redness. 

It is also important to remember that chlorine is used to remove stains. 

As a result, it’s possible that the chlorine will ruin the tattoo and make it look drab or washed out. 

Taking a Dip in the Sea 

You may believe that because pools contain harmful chemicals, swimming in the ocean is better for your skin. 

After all, it’s all-natural, isn’t it? Wrong! 

Sea or ocean water is not sterile. 

It contains microbes that can irritate your skin, making it red and inflamed. 

Furthermore, the salt in the water is an irritant and can cause irritation to your skin.

Have Fun Swimming With Your New Tattoo!

Swimming with fresh ink is not recommended by experts. 

However, if necessary, it is possible to completely waterproof a tattoo for swimming: 

• Wrap the tattoo in plastic wrap, if possible. 
• Make use of a medical sealant or. 
• If you don’t have any other options, coconut oil, shea butter, or cocoa butter can also be used. 

Then, after your swim, remember to thoroughly wash and clean your tattoo.

Read also: How to use Tattoo Transfer Paper