For surfers passionate about ink, the question inevitably arises: “How long do I have to stay out of the ocean after getting a tattoo?” If you’ve ever Googled “surfing after tattoo,” you’ve likely encountered a range of answers, often suggesting anywhere up to a month of dry land before paddling back out. Medical professionals and online forums alike tend to err on the side of caution, recommending weeks away from the water to allow for proper healing.
According to health writer Adrienne Santos, “You should wait for your tattoo to fully heal — which can take at least 2 to 4 weeks — before swimming in any kind of water.” This advice, while sound, can feel like an eternity for a surfer when the waves are pumping.
As a surfer myself, the thought of a month-long hiatus from the ocean after getting fresh ink is almost unbearable. During a recent tattoo appointment at Diving Horse Tattoo in Atlantic City, I sought advice from artist @dylangregorytattoos, hoping for a solution that wouldn’t keep me sidelined from the surf. Dylan offered a surprising perspective, born from personal experience: he’s surfed on the same day he’s been tattooed.
Dylan explained, “Most articles talking about staying out of the water assume the tattoo is exposed to the air. However, using a waterproof bandage like Saniderm creates a safe barrier, allowing you to surf even with a fresh tattoo. The key is ensuring the Saniderm seal remains unbroken while paddling and maneuvering. If water breaches the seal, bacteria can become trapped, increasing the risk of infection.”
Dylan applied a Saniderm bandage post-tattoo, and armed with this advice, I ordered extra Saniderm online, ready to test his theory at the first sign of swell. Fortunately, waves arrived sooner than expected, presenting the perfect opportunity to put Saniderm to the test. Carefully applying the bandage before donning my wetsuit, I felt confident heading into the ocean. The Saniderm held firm, and I enjoyed a surf session without concern. Post-surf, I meticulously removed the bandage and cleaned the tattooed area. Each time, the bandage adhered tightly, confirming its effectiveness in keeping water out.
For further reassurance, I consulted my friend Anna, a registered nurse (RN, BSN). Anna corroborated Dylan’s advice, stating, “Using proper wound care like Saniderm, it’s generally safe to surf in the initial days after getting tattooed, provided you correctly apply the Saniderm, remove it post-surf, thoroughly clean the area, and maintain your regular aftercare routine. However, individuals with compromised wound healing or immune systems should seek different guidance.”
So, if the swell is up and you’re sporting a new Ocean Tattoo – perhaps a majestic wave, a sea turtle, or a nautical anchor – and the call of the ocean is too strong to resist, Saniderm might be your solution. It offers a viable alternative to choosing between fresh ink and fresh waves. Months later, my tattoo is fully healed and shows no signs of complications, proving that with the right precautions, surfers and tattoos can coexist harmoniously.
In short: Maybe trust the tattoo artists and experienced surfers, and consider Saniderm for surfing with new ink.
