How long should I wait to go in the ocean after my tattoo?

Question

I am going to the beach this weekend and it will be 3 weeks after i have gotten a tattoo done on my ankle...

Do you think it is safe for me to go swimming in the ocean?

My tattoo is done peeling and the scab has fallen off..it is raised a little bit though

Answer 1

ocean actually should help heal it. salt water is known for its healing ability's. but you shouldnt go in a pool tho, cause kids pee in there and  whatever it could get infected or irritatted

Answer 2

I think that your best bet is to stay out for another week or so, but as for it being raised, it could be just because it is scarred. I have had a tattoo on my back for 2 1/2 years and I can still feel the ink because it is scarred. If you decide to go anyway just make sure that every time you exit the water you put lotion on it to keep it moist, because swimming in the ocean can dry it out just as bad a swimming in a pool full of chlorine. If it fades a bit, you can always go back to your tattoo artist (usually within 6 months) and have them touch it up; this is usually free of charge.  

Answer 3

i was told to stay out of the ocean for at least 2 months after getting a tattoo because the salt water can still damage it... i would stay out of the water and put sunscreen on your tattoo and try to keep it out of direct sunlight as much as possible.  your taking a risk going to the beach after 3 weeks as it is.

Answer 4

If it is still raised, I wouldn't risk it. It's not worth risking fading of a tattoo that you probably paid a lot of money for. Tattoos can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks to heal...I'd just wait it out. Also, you need to really keep it out of the sun.

Answer 5

and if you do go in the sun... wear good sunscreen. i have a tattoo that covers my entire upper back that's 5 months old and i just got back from the beach. i used SPF30 and my tattoo is fine. hope that helps.