You’re considering a tattoo but unsure if it’s the right time. It’s cold outside, and you’re uncertain if you can handle the stress of a new tattoo in winter.
However, there are multiple benefits to getting tattooed while it’s cool out – read on and see why winter is the best time to get inked!
What is the Best Season for Your Tattoo?
It’s essential to consider the season when you’re planning to get a tattoo. There are better times of year than others, depending on what you think is best for you.
To get an excellent and unique tattoo, winter is recommended. There are fewer distractions during the winter months, and shops aren’t busy, so you’ll be able to focus on your tattoo and think about what you want.
The Pros of Getting a Tattoo in Winter
Consider these factors in choosing the right time to get inked. Here are the pros of getting a tattoo in winter:
- The weather is on your side. It’s cold outside, so you won’t have to worry about sun exposure.
- It’s festive! Christmas is around the corner, so what could be more fitting than getting a tattoo for your Xmas pressie?
- The artists are more available, so you’ll have a more comprehensive selection of talented artists to choose from, and you’ll be able to get an appointment that fits your schedule.
- The prices are lower. Studios are often more flexible with their rates in the wintertime.
The Cons of Getting a Tattoo in Summer
Aside from the Sun’s UV exposure, there are other reasons why getting a tattoo in summer is not advisable.
- You can’t swim with a new tattoo – Let’s face it! Summer is ideal for soaking in the water, swimming with friends or doing water sports. Because your tattoo is an open wound, being in the water with a new tattoo can also cause your ink to leak & dilute, which is something you want to avoid.
- Chance of getting an infection – Bodies of water are a breeding ground for bacteria, so you don’t want to expose a wound to it. Ignoring this could turn your beautiful tattoo into something nasty, painful, & or something that sends you to the hospital.
- Summer clothes can’t protect your new tattoo – As we sweat a lot in summer, cotton is one of the everyday clothes we wear. While this absorbs sweat, this will expose your tattoo to moisture. As we know, once your tattoo is exposed to water (in this case, sweat), it causes many problems. Some summer wears are short and expose the body to the Sun.
Expectations for Getting a Tattoo in the Winter
If you’re the type who wants to show off your new ink immediately and can commit to proper tattoo care, then you might want to wait until it’s a little bit warmer outside.
When getting a tattoo in winter, the process is the same as any other time of year. You’ll need to ensure you have an empty stomach and hydrate before and after your appointment.
How to Prepare Your Skin for a Tattoo in Winter
Your skin might suffer in cold temperatures, so you’ll want to ensure you’re well prepared before getting a tattoo in winter. Here are a few tips:
- Make sure your skin is moisturised. You’ll want to apply a good moisturiser several times daily, especially before your appointment.
- Avoid sun exposure. Sun can damage your skin and make the healing process more difficult.
- Drink plenty of water. Tattoos require a lot of hydration, so drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol. These can dehydrate you and make the healing process more difficult.
- Eat healthy foods. A healthy diet will help your body heal properly.
How to Care for Your Tattoo in Winter
Now that the colder months are upon us, you might wonder how to care for your new tattoo. In general, you want to avoid exposing your tattoo to direct sunlight, which can cause it to fade prematurely.
If you’re planning to spend a lot of time outside this winter, use tattoo-safe sunscreen if your tattoo will be exposed. Your skin will be a little more sensitive in the winter, so avoid using harsh soaps or detergents when cleaning your tattoo. Instead, use mild soap or body wash and pat it dries with a soft towel.
And lastly, try to avoid submerging your tattoo in water for long periods. If you have to wash it, use lukewarm water and pat it dry with a clean towel.
Conclusion
Overall, it’s up to you whether or not to get a tattoo in winter. Just remember the factors we went over, and if you decide to get one, don’t forget to enjoy the experience.