If you’re a surfer who’s just gotten inked, the burning question is likely: “When can I get back in the water?” You’ve probably searched online for “can I surf after a New Tattoo?” and been met with varying answers, often suggesting weeks of staying dry. While conventional wisdom and some medical advice recommend waiting up to a month to avoid water exposure, especially ocean water, the reality might be more wave-friendly, especially with proper aftercare for your new tattoo.
The Surfer’s Dilemma: Waves vs. Fresh Ink
For surfers, being told to stay out of the ocean for weeks feels like torture. Missing out on waves when you’re healthy and the swell is pumping is a unique kind of agony. This was the exact predicament faced by a surfer eager to get back to the waves after getting a fresh tattoo. Hoping for a quicker return to the water than the standard advice allows, the quest for solutions began.
Debunking the Myth: One Month Out of the Water?
Traditional advice often suggests waiting until your tattoo is fully healed – typically 2 to 4 weeks – before submerging it in any kind of water. This guideline, while cautious, can seem excessive to an avid surfer. The concern stems from the risk of infection to a new tattoo, which is essentially an open wound. However, with advancements in tattoo aftercare, particularly the use of specialized bandages, the waiting period might not need to be so long.
Saniderm to the Rescue: Your Tattoo’s Best Friend in the Water
During a tattoo session at Diving Horse Tattoo in Atlantic City, the artist @dylangregorytattoos offered some surprising insight. Contrary to the typical month-long wait, he suggested that surfing with a new tattoo could be possible much sooner, even the same day, with the use of a protective bandage like Saniderm.
Tattoo Artist’s Insight: Surfing on the Same Day?
Dylan explained that the standard recommendations to avoid water often assume the tattoo is exposed to the air. However, using a waterproof, breathable bandage like Saniderm creates a protective barrier. “It’s pretty safe to go in the ocean with a fresh tattoo if you use a bandage like Saniderm,” he advised. The crucial point is ensuring the bandage creates a complete seal. If water gets under the bandage, it can trap bacteria against the fresh tattoo, increasing the risk of infection.
Surfer with a new tattoo bandaged with Saniderm, ready to surf.
Real-World Test: Putting Saniderm to the Surf Test
Putting this advice to the test, after getting a new tattoo and applying a Saniderm bandage, the surfer in our story prepared to surf when an unexpected swell appeared. By carefully applying the Saniderm to create a watertight seal before putting on a wetsuit, they were able to surf without directly exposing the fresh tattoo to ocean water. After each surf session, the bandage was removed, and the tattoo was cleaned thoroughly as part of the aftercare routine. Each time, the bandage was stuck firmly to the skin, indicating a secure seal against water entry.
Close-up of a Saniderm bandage protecting a new tattoo on a surfer's arm while surfing.
Nurse’s Perspective: Is it Really Safe?
To further validate this approach, a registered nurse, Anna, RN, BSN, was consulted for her professional opinion. Anna confirmed that surfing soon after getting a tattoo could be acceptable “if you are using proper ‘wound care,’ you should be okay to surf the first few days after getting your tattoo; just as long as you’re properly applying saniderm on the tattoo, making sure to take it off, washing the area thoroughly after each session, and keeping up with usual aftercare.” However, she cautioned that this advice might differ for individuals with compromised wound healing or immune systems.
Saniderm bandage in action, protecting a new tattoo from water exposure.
How to Surf Safely with a New Tattoo: Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re considering surfing with a new tattoo using Saniderm, here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Get Saniderm (or a similar breathable, waterproof bandage): Purchase Saniderm or a comparable product designed for tattoo aftercare.
- Apply Saniderm Carefully: Ensure the skin around the tattoo is clean and dry. Apply the Saniderm bandage, making sure to create a complete waterproof seal around all edges of the tattoo. Overlap the edges generously onto clean skin.
- Surf Session: Be mindful during your surf session. Avoid situations that might compromise the bandage seal.
- Post-Surf Removal: After surfing, promptly and carefully remove the Saniderm bandage as directed by the product instructions.
- Clean the Tattoo: Thoroughly clean the tattooed area with a mild, fragrance-free soap and water. Gently pat it dry with a clean paper towel.
- Continue Aftercare: Follow your tattoo artist’s aftercare instructions. This typically involves keeping the tattoo clean and moisturized with a recommended tattoo balm or lotion.
- Monitor for Issues: Keep an eye on your tattoo for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, pus, or fever. If you notice any of these signs, consult a healthcare professional immediately.
Conclusion: Waves and Ink – You Can Have Both (Responsibly)
While traditional advice suggests a lengthy wait before surfing with a new tattoo, using Saniderm and following strict aftercare can offer a viable alternative for surfers eager to get back in the water sooner. By taking precautions and prioritizing proper wound care, you might not have to choose between fresh ink and your next surf session. Remember to always listen to your body, prioritize healing, and consult with your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your specific situation or the healing process of your new tattoo.
