Introduction

The common belief that getting tattooed in summer is a bad idea is exaggerated. In reality, it all comes down to how well you care for your skin and tattoo.

Sun exposure can have an impact on pigments and skin healing — but with a few simple precautions, it’s absolutely possible to get tattooed in summer without compromising the final result.

What the sun actually does to a tattoo

UV rays (UVA and UVB) have a direct impact on your skin and the ink underneath:

• Ink fading: UV rays can break down ink pigments, especially light colors like yellow, orange, and red.
• Skin sensitivity: Freshly tattooed skin is fragile and more likely to react to sun exposure.
• Skin aging: Long-term UV exposure accelerates skin aging, which can reduce line clarity over time.

Can you get tattooed in summer? Yes, if you follow a few rules

Summer is just as good a time as any to get a tattoo — as long as you’re careful during the healing phase:

• Keep your fresh tattoo completely out of the sun for at least 3–4 weeks.
• Avoid swimming (sea, pool, jacuzzi) until the tattoo is fully healed.
• Cover the area with light, breathable clothing to shield it from UV rays.

Professional suppliers like Sorry Mom and TattooSafe agree: it’s not about the season, it’s about how you care for your skin.

Once the tattoo has healed: daily sun protection

• Use a high SPF sunscreen (SPF 50 minimum) made for tattoos.
• Reapply it every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Keep your skin moisturized to preserve pigment sharpness.

Brands like TattooMed and Hustle Butter offer targeted sun care products for tattooed skin.

Got a sunburn or fading? Here’s what to do

If your tattoo gets too much sun after healing, here’s how to manage it:

• Apply aloe vera or a fragrance-free soothing cream.
• Moisturize regularly until the skin recovers.
• Avoid scratching or peeling the skin.

If the fading is significant, a touch-up session is possible later — once the skin has calmed down.

Conclusion

The sun isn’t your tattoo’s enemy — but it does require respect. Getting tattooed in summer is absolutely fine if you’re committed to a few smart habits during and after healing.

Use common sense, listen to your artist, and protect your ink with the right skincare. That’s all it takes to keep your piece vibrant and sharp for years.