Have you been thinking about finally getting that tattoo? Honestly, winter is the best time to go for it. Hear me out—I learned this the hard way last summer when I got a tattoo *right* before a trip. It was a total headache. 0/10 would not recommend it. Winter, though? It’s way more chill—literally and figuratively. It's the perfect time to commit if you've been considering a new tattoo.
Why Winter is Prime Time for New Tattoos
A major perk is reduced sun exposure. The sun’s UV rays cause damage to the skin and cause fading and discoloration of tattoos. Luckily winter means shorter days and fewer outdoor activities, so it’s easy to keep new tattoos covered and out of the sun. But I did say reduced sun exposure. Even in the winter, the effects of sun exposure are still present. The snow can reflect UV rays from the sun, doubling your exposure. So sunscreen is still a must for your tattoos and any skin peeking out. I know, sunscreen in winter feels weird, and people tend to skip it because the sun doesn’t feel as strong, but UV rays don’t take a holiday just because it’s cold. I’ve said it in other blogs; I’ll repeat it—DON’T FORGET TO APPLY SPF EVERY DAY. No matter the season.
During the summer, heat and humidity can cause excessive sweating, irritating a fresh tattoo and potentially introducing bacteria to the area. But cooler temperatures eliminate sweating, so you can keep your tattoo clean and dry without worrying about sunburns or heat waves complicating your aftercare routine.
Speaking of aftercare, your existing tattoos will need some extra love in the winter. Cold, dry air and indoor heating can dehydrate your skin, leaving tattoos looking dull. To keep them vibrant, moisturize daily with a fragrance-free lotion or balm made for tattoos, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside out. Avoid long, hot showers since they can strip your skin of moisture—stick to lukewarm water instead. When heading outside, protect your tattoos from harsh winds by keeping them covered, and don’t forget to apply SPF!
Healing in Time for Summer
Best of all, a tattoo done in the winter has several months to heal completely, meaning it will be ready to show off when beach season rolls around.
In the end, getting a tattoo in winter provides the best of both worlds: a gentler healing environment and the convenience of allowing your ink to be fully healed and ready to shine when summer arrives.
So, if you’ve been on the fence, maybe this is your sign. Let’s make a plan for a new tattoo this winter—you’ll thank yourself when summer arrives.
