Tattoo and Scuba Diving in Phuket
Known for its tropical beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, and tattoo culture, Phuket is a popular vacation destination. While it might be tempting to get a new tattoo while on the island and still enjoy the beach and the water activities, a newly tattooed body needs to heal before continuing with high-impact activities.
Diving and fresh tattoos don’t mix, for what reason?
The main problem isn’t just the pressure underwater. The main issue is that of immersion.
Saltwater can cause skin irritation to healing skin, and natural seawater contains microorganisms that may penetrate damaged skin. Scabs can also become soft on repeated exposure and dislodge the healing surface. If you want to get a bamboo tattoo in Patong, consultation with an expert will surely help you.
There are extra factors when diving with scuba:
- Pressure changes: When diving, the pressure around you will change; ascending and descending are not normally the primary reason for delaying a dive. The real danger lies in the exposure of skin that has not healed completely to water.
- Long snorkeling or diving time: A long snorkeling or diving session will keep the tattoo wet for a longer time.
- Exposure to saltwater: Saltwater may irritate newly tattooed skin.
- Sun exposure: The high sun radiation in Phuket can cause the skin to be harmed and hasten tattoo fading.
Follow the strict Countdown Schedule
This is a suggested minimized schedule which you should follow, but remember the importance of your tattoo artist’s aftercare instructions:
Day 0 – 7: No diving/Snorkeling
The tattoo is an open wound, so treat it as such. Taking short showers is not soaking. Stay out of pools, oceans, hot tubs, and extended periods of water contact.
Days 8-14: Avoid Immersions
If the skin is peeling, scabbing, tender, or red, it is still healing. Don’t judge a tattoo from a “dry” surface.
Days 15-21: Re-Evaluate Skin
If the tattoo is fully healed (no scabbing, peeling, large patches of redness or tenderness), then some aftercare advice suggests that it is safe to go in the sea after about two weeks. A waiting period of a few more weeks gives a little more leeway for those planning a dive.
Day 21: If Completely Healed, Return Slowly
If the skin is completely normal in appearance and feeling, it’s probably a better decision to return to snorkeling or scuba diving. Wait longer if not healed. Always choose the best tattoo studio in Phuket for the best tattoo outcome.
Phuket-Specific Tips
If tattooing is a major reason for your trip, then perhaps plan your tattoo for when it’s not before you head out for your few days of diving.
Also:
- Let your tatted man or woman know about your diving plans.
- Do not mess with the tattoo, and follow the aftercare directions given to you by the professional.
- Don’t deliberately cover a healing tattoo for swimming.
- Wetsuits and gear should be kept to a minimum.
- After the healing process, apply regular and suitable high-SPF sunscreen to prevent the tattoo from being damaged by the sun’s rays.
Do not place your tattoo around the ocean! It is the ocean around your tattoo! With a little patience, you can save your skin and your new tattoo.