I would like to get a new tattoo soon but I'm hesitant about getting it during the summer... I spend all my free time at the beach or pool and don't want a new tattoo to ruin my summer plans...

how long do I have to wait before I can swim or sunbath with a new tattoo??

I've read up a lot about tattoo care but I'm going to leave it to those who already have gone through the process to answer that and stick to saying that I would suggest waiting until after summer to get your tattoo.

i agree

The sun will pull your ink out or make it fade I should say. Be careful of what you get and where you are getting it. Good Luck.

Put on a good sunblock with a high spf just over the tattoo then ENJOY YOUR SUMMER!!!!!

Thank you to everyone for their great advice so far!

what about swimming in a pool or the ocean... so I need to wait to do that?

Of what I've read (again reading up here at tattoo sites and care instructions which are pretty easy to locate) submersing your tattoo for, like, the first two weeks is not a good idea. Anyone correct me if I'm wrong.

You are very correct about that.

For the first few weeks... SUNBLOCK, SUNBLOCK, SUNBLOCK and keep it covered. If you hop in the water, cover up as quickly as possible.

When it comes to pools... chlorine is a key ingredient in BLEACH... if you hit the pool... small doses and then rinse off with fresh water and then IMMEDIATELY cover up... or at the VERY LEAST... SUNBLOCK, SUNBLOCK, SUNBLOCK!!!

Why go through the effort of getting inked and then not care for it properly?

Do the right thing and protect your investment.

thanks for all the great advice!

I'm really anxious to get another tattoo but I think the best thing would be to wait until after summer... thanks everyone!!

G'day, put your suncream on about 15 mins before going into the sun, use a high spf, this will protect your tatoo, remember to re-apply, this will keep it looking fresh