Can I Swim After Getting Tattooed?

If you need to ask, it’s too soon.

No — you can’t swim after getting tattooed. Not in pools, hot tubs, lakes, oceans, or bathtubs.

A healing tattoo is an open wound. Submerging it means bacteria, chlorine, and regret.

1. The Two-Week post tattoo Rule

Wait a minimum of 14 days or until your tattoo is fully sealed and flake-free. If you can still see shiny, healing skin — stay dry.

2. What Actually Happens If You Swim Anyway

You risk infection, color loss, or warped lines. Salt water and chlorine strip ink. Lakes and hot tubs? Petri dishes with vibes.

We can fix a bad line. We can’t fix your immune system.

3. What You Can  Do

Shower normally — just no soaking. If you absolutely must be around water (vacation, job, etc.), wrap the area with a waterproof barrier temporarily.

But really? Just wait. Your tattoo deserves patience.

Swimming too soon is one of the fastest ways to ruin fresh art. If you’re going to spend hours under the needle, don’t undo it for a cannonball.