Why sauna visits after a fresh tattoo are not a good idea
For many, the decision to get a tattoo is a form of artistic self-expression and a reminder of special events or people in their lives. Once you’ve taken the plunge and gotten a tattoo, it’s of utmost importance to provide proper care and healing to keep the end result as beautiful as possible. One of the most common questions asked by newly tattooed people is: Can I visit the sauna after getting a tattoo? In this article, we clarify why this is not a good idea and what is recommended instead.
The healing phase of a tattoo
Immediately after getting a tattoo, the healing phase begins, which usually lasts between two and four weeks. During this time, the skin around the tattoo is sensitive and prone to infection and damage. The first few days are crucial in determining how well the tattoo heals and how it will look in the end. Therefore, it is important to carefully follow the advice of the tattoo artist and carefully implement all instructions for the care and cleaning of the tattoo.
Why is a visit to the sauna immediately after getting a tattoo not ideal?
The sauna temperature is between 80 and 100 degrees Celsius, and the high humidity provides an intense sweating cure. This heat and humidity can have several negative effects on a fresh tattoo:
- Sweating causes salts and minerals to leak out of the body and onto the fresh wound. This can cause irritation and delays in the healing process.
- Saunas are public facilities and therefore breeding grounds for bacteria and germs. These can penetrate into the open wound of the tattoo and lead to serious infections.
- The heat of the sauna makes the skin swell and expands the pores. This can cause the ink in the tattoo to smear or heal unevenly, negatively affecting the final appearance of the tattoo.
Alternative care for a fresh tattoo
Instead of a visit to the sauna, you should focus on important care measures in the first period after getting a tattoo. Here are some tips:
- Keep the tattoo clean by gently cleaning it two to three times a day with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap.
- Avoid chlorinated water, staining liquids, polluted environments and direct sunlight during the healing phase.
- Be sure to apply cream to the tattoo regularly to promote healing and prevent drying of the skin.
Conclusion
A visit to the sauna is not recommended during the healing phase of a fresh tattoo, as the heat and humidity in the sauna can lead to infections and damage to the tattoo. Instead, it is important to focus on proper care and cleaning of the tattoo to achieve a beautiful end result. Once the tattoo is completely healed, you can of course enjoy the sauna again without worry.
