Summer Is Coming: Tips from 808 On How to Prepare Your Tattoos for the Season

Summer is almost here, and with it comes sunshine, beach days, road trips, and outdoor adventures. But whether you have fresh ink or older, healed tattoos, the warmer months can be tough on your body art. UV rays, sweat, and sun exposure are all things your tattoos don't exactly love. So how do you protect your investment and keep your ink looking fresh?

At 808 Studios in Downtown Halifax, we’re not only about creating next-level tattoos, we’re also here to help you take care of them. Here’s your ultimate guide to summer tattoo care, plus what to know if you’re thinking about getting tattooed during the hotter months.

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Tattoo Summer Survival: Do’s and Don’ts

✅ DO: Apply (and reapply!) sunscreen

UV rays are a tattoo’s worst enemy. They break down the pigment in your skin, causing tattoos to fade prematurely. Use a high SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen (30 or higher), and reapply every couple of hours when exposed. Make it a daily habit for healed tattoos.

❌ DON’T: Apply sunscreen on fresh tattoos

If your tattoo is still healing, skip the sunscreen completely. Fresh ink is essentially an open wound, and applying sunscreen can cause irritation or infection. Keep new tattoos covered until they’re fully healed (usually 2–4 weeks).

✅ DO: Keep your tattoo moisturized

Warm weather and sun can dry out your skin. Use a fragrance-free, tattoo-safe moisturizer to keep your ink and skin hydrated. Well-moisturized skin means better-looking tattoos.

❌ DON’T: Swim with a healing tattoo

We get it! the beach is calling. But submerging a new tattoo in oceans, lakes, pools, or hot tubs can introduce bacteria and lead to infections or fading. Wait until the tattoo is fully healed before you take a dip.

✅ DO: Stay cool and covered

Loose, breathable clothing helps protect fresh ink from friction and UV rays. Consider light cotton layers or UV-blocking clothing if you're spending long hours outside.

❌ DON’T: Overdo sun exposure

Even healed tattoos can fade with repeated exposure to intense sun. Try to limit how long you’re in direct sunlight and seek shade when possible.

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Thinking of Getting Tattooed This Summer?

You might hear that summer isn’t the ideal time to get tattooed. While healing can be trickier in hot, sweaty conditions, it’s absolutely doable — especially when you plan ahead.

Here are a few tips if you’re getting inked this season:

• Schedule smart: Avoid getting tattooed right before a beach vacation, festival, or sun-soaked event.

• Follow your aftercare religiously (we provide all the guidance you need at 808 Studios).

• Take advantage of our amenities: At 808 Studios, we make summer sessions a breeze with a clean, climate-controlled environment, free specialty coffee, noise-cancelling headphones, snacks, slippers, and comfy pillows to keep you relaxed during your appointment.

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Why Choose 808 Studios This Summer

Whether you're looking to protect your tattoos or book your next piece, 808 Studios offers a one-of-a-kind, elevated experience. We pair exceptional realism and custom tattoo artistry with amenities designed to make your session as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Our Halifax studio is a cool retreat from the summer heat, and our expert artists are here to guide you every step of the way. From design consults to aftercare, we’ve got you covered.

Book your summer session today and experience the most comfortable, client-focused tattoo studio in Halifax.