Aftercare · 6 min read
Tattoo Aftercare in Hot, Humid Weather: A Traveler's Guide
Healing a tattoo in a hot, humid city is different from healing at home. Sweat, sunscreen, sand and swimming plans all get in the way, and you are away from your usual routine. The good news is that the basics are simple, and a few habits will protect your tattoo for the rest of the trip.
Below are the steps we recommend at Ink Lovers Tattoo Studio in Cartagena, Colombia. Always follow the written instructions your artist gives you, because they depend on your tattoo and your skin.
Keep it clean, use a thin layer of the ointment we recommend, wear loose clothing, avoid sun, pools and the sea until it has healed, and never pick scabs.
The first 24 hours
Your artist covers the tattoo before you leave. Keep it covered for as long as you are told, then wash your hands and clean the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and unscented soap. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel and let it air dry for a few minutes before applying a very thin layer of the ointment we recommend.
Cleaning and moisturizing in humid weather
In humid weather your skin stays damp, so avoid piling on cream. A thin layer is enough, because too much can trap moisture and slow healing. Wash the tattoo as often as your instructions say and always with clean hands. Never use a dirty towel or a sponge, and do not soak the area.
Sweat, clothing and sleeping
Sweat is normal in Cartagena, but salty, dirty sweat can irritate a fresh tattoo. Choose loose, breathable cotton clothing that does not rub, change it daily and rinse the area gently if you have been walking in the heat. At night, sleep on clean sheets and avoid lying directly on the tattoo when you can.
What to avoid: sun, pools and the sea
Skip the beach, the pool, hot tubs and long baths until the tattoo has fully healed, usually two to four weeks. Keep it out of direct sun and do not use sunscreen on it while the skin is open. Once it has healed, use sunscreen on the area every time you go out, because UV light fades ink.
Normal healing or warning signs?
Some redness, light swelling, tightness and peeling are normal, and the tattoo may itch. Do not scratch or pick at it. If you notice increasing pain, heat, strong swelling, pus, a bad smell or fever, see a doctor and let us know.
The aftercare we give you at the studio
Every client leaves with written aftercare in English or Spanish, and you can message us on WhatsApp at +57 315 7785566 if you have a question during your trip. Our tattoo FAQ for travelers answers other common questions about healing, sun and swimming.
Ready to plan your tattoo?
Send your idea and your dates, and we will confirm the artist, the price and the availability.