Summer is when people prefer to swim and relax in hot weather. Swimming not only relaxes the mind but also helps maintain the body in perfect condition. But athletes who prefer to have a tattoo might find it challenging to maintain it in perfect condition.
The tattoo ink can fade away quickly, or if athletes prefer to swim soon after applying the tattoo, then the tattoo might disappear. There are many methods for waterproofing the tattoo but novice swimmers and athletes might have a doubt on how to waterproof a tattoo for swimming.
So in this article, we have mentioned some impressive ideas for waterproofing the tattoo. Soon after waterproofing the tattoo, it can remain fresh and thick forever. People who prefer to swim regularly should make sure to waterproof their tattoos.
Contents
How Long Will It Take To Dry After Applying A Tattoo?
Usually, it will take around three to five hours to dry. But even after dyeing, it takes around two to four weeks to set in the skin. So only after that people can swim; if not, the tattoo might disappear. Besides this, the skin type and tattoo also decide the drying time.
The time allowed to make the tattoo set is more important than the drying time of the tattoo. But unfortunately, if you have applied for a tattoo in summer, it might impact the time you spend swimming. So to have an impressive swimming experience in summer, it is a must to waterproof the tattoo.
Moreover, after applying a tattoo, the skin might have damages, and staying out of water for a specific time is a must. So if a person enters the water, then there are possibilities for damaging the skin. The possibility of infections will also be high, so make sure to waterproof the tattoo soon after completing the process.
Is It Possible To Waterproof the tattoo completely?
Waterproofing the tattoo completely is not possible at all as a particular amount of water might enter the skin; it will create some mess while swimming. The pores in the skin will open soon after tattooing, so if the tattoo is visible or if the tattoo is uncovered, then there are possibilities for damage.
Swimming pool water is a mixture of chlorine and some chemicals. The mixture of chemicals will disinfect the water as many people might prefer to swim in the same place. There are various methods to cover a fresh tattoo, but some of the most impressive methods can be found in this article.
Using Plastic Wraps
It is one of the essential methods for wrapping the tattoo. Plastic covers can help people in covering their tattoos completely. Purchasing a plastic bag will be an added advantage in many aspects as it can cover up the wound and provide utmost protection.
Without plastic covers, people might find it difficult to protect the from wounds. People can quickly seal the tattoo using a thin rope or rubber band. It will also help people in completing the drying process with ease. Initially, it is a must to cover up the tattoo to avoid the spread of ink in other areas.
Before applying the waterproof plastic layer, it is a must to apply moisturizer and a piece of cotton cloth to seal the tattoo properly. A layer of cloth and moisturizer will not allow the water to enter the pores. Even if the plastic layer is removed, the water will never enter the layer of cloth and approach the wound.
Soon after covering all the areas, athletes should use the medical sealant to ensure safety. This medical seal is like a surgical glue that helps in repairing wounds. Other than this, a separate layer of waterproof glue cloth can be used to cover up the plastic bag in a better way.
Cleaning The Tattoo After Swimming
People who prefer to swim with a fresh tattoo should clean the tattoo with a sanitizer or Dettol soon after swimming. Anyhow the moisture content will be present in the tattoo, creating some infections in the long run. Without sanitizer, the water content might enter the pores and reach the bottom-most membrane of the skin. This will create some infections and ruin the peacefulness while swimming.
So it is always better to cover the wound with plastic and moisturizing solution to avoid the formation of bacteria or fungus in and around the wound. Usually, waterproof bandages are flexible and reliable enough to withstand very high stress while swimming. Covering the tattoo with this material will protect the wound from infections.
Waterproof Dressing Using Rolls
People must have witnessed a lot of wound-dressing clothes from which anyone can obtain impressive protection. This layer of cloth can be purchased separately, or it can also be purchased as a roll which can then be cut according to the needs of that particular person. If the tattoo is covered and protected from water, then the tattoo might stay fit for a long time.
Without protection, the tattoo might erase, which will be a great disadvantage for people who prefer to maintain their skin in perfect condition. Allowing the cover on the skin will also be a disadvantage for swimmers as it creates rashes and allergies.
Removing the protective layer and dressing immediately after enjoying the swim is always better. Just by using a soap solution on the body, anyone can easily clean the wound and allow the tattoo to stay fit on the body for a long time.
What To Do If A Person Forgets To Follow All The Safety Measures?
In an emergency, a person can easily follow some basic cleaning procedures and immediately clean the wound. Using a sanitizer or Dettol, anyone can easily clean the tattoo to disinfect the area first.
Soon after, consulting a doctor is a must as a doctor can suggest the right cream for applying to the skin. In case of emergencies, anyone can easily approach the doctor to avoid the formation of bacteria or viruses on the wound. After completing all the procedures, it is a must to clean the skin with a dry towel to avoid problems in the future.
There are many differences between swimming in the pool and swimming in the sea. Pool water will never damage your skin, but there are possibilities for skin allergies if the water is not chlorinated. But seawater is like hard water, so while swimming in the hot summer, there are possibilities for skin allergies or damage.
Applying Coconut Oil On Tattoos
After completing the entire procedure, it is a must to apply a cream or coconut oil to avoid the formation of bacteria or viruses. It is one of the most effective and universal methods for creating a protective layer on the body. Washing and cleaning the tattoo might act as a protective layer, but applying coconut oil will help heal the wound quickly and easily.
People might feel redness, rashes, itching, and all the other skin problems. This kind of skin problem can be cured by applying coconut oil to the skin. It will be an added advantage in many aspects and makes the skin glow. So applying coconut oil will be beneficial in many aspects.
Other than this, if you find signs of redness, rashes, skin allergies, and other aspects, you must approach the tattoo artist for instant help. They must have a clear idea of how to cure the problem instantly. Having expert advice is always better than making critical decisions on your own.
Showering With A New Tattoo
Even showering is not advisable after tattooing as it might affect the skin. So if you prefer to shower, it is a must to cover the tattoo to avoid the formation of bacteria or viruses. The formation of bacteria or viruses can be avoided by applying coconut oil or other oils to the outer layer of the skin.
Water is one of the most important aspects that must be considered after applying a tattoo. So if a person can maintain the tattoo without the formation of water, then the tattoo can be maintained in perfect condition. As mentioned earlier, there are possibilities for skin rashes, allergies, and other skin complications if the tattooed area is not covered properly.
Final Thoughts
Hence now, people must clearly know how to apply a tattoo and maintain it properly. Now anyone can easily apply and cover up the tattoo properly to avoid the formation of bacteria and viruses on the skin.
Tattoo enthusiasts might have a better idea of choosing the right procedure for applying a tattoo, so this guide might help novice users in a better way.
Even the after-effects and procedures for maintaining the tattoo can be found. Having a unique plan and procedure for applying a tattoo might save time, and it also helps in completing the procedure easily. Hope this article might help novice swimmers who prefer to tattoo and swim in hot weather conditions.
Lazar Sretenović, an IFBB and REPs Level 3 certified trainer, specializes in personalized fitness programs encompassing weight lifting, EMS, and endurance training. With a focus on tailored nutrition and holistic well-being, Lazar Sretenović guides clients through transformative health journeys, emphasizing safety and individual goals.