When Is the Best Time to Get a Tattoo?
So you’re lounging in bed scrolling Instagram, and you get that little worm in your brain that says it’s time to get a new tattoo. What the worm doesn’t know, is that when you get a tattoo can have a big impact on how well your tattoo heals. Choosing the right time of year can help your skin heal faster, prevent fading, and keep you comfortable during the recovery process. At Apollo Tattoo Studios in Kissimmee, our artists help clients plan their tattoos around their vacations, schedules, and lifestyles. Here’s what to keep in mind when booking your next tattoo.
☀️ Summer Tattoos: Fun but High-Maintenance ☀️
Summer is when most people want to show off their ink, but it’s actually one of the toughest times for healing.
Pros:
Fresh tattoos look great with summer outfits.
Vacations are a great time to get a tattoo because of the time off.
Tattoos can be a great way to commemorate a trip.
Ideal for spontenaous events, and small flash pieces.
Cons:
Excessive sun exposure can fade or irritate healing tattoos.
Swimming in pools, the ocean, or hot tubs can lead to infection.
Sweating can slow down the healing process.
Verdict:
Getting a tattoo in the summer is fun, just make sure you plan the appointment after any pool/outdoor activities, and avoid sunscreen on a fresh tattoo until fully healed.
🍂 Fall: Quiet, Comfortable, and Ideal for Larger Pieces🍂
The weather is cooler, you’re wearing more layers (which protect healing tattoos), and there’s less risk of sun damage. Plus, tattoo shops are usually a little slower during the fall, with vacations ending and school starting, making walk-in times shorter, and appointment availability more flexible.
Pros:
Less sweating = easier healing.
Artists’ schedules are often more open after the busy summer rush.
Light clothing layers will protect the tattoos from germs and sun.
Cons:
Dry air may increase scabbing
School semester starts, making it hard for college students, or parents to find the time to get away.
Verdict:
If youre looking for a larger piece, or a tattoo in a harder area, fall could be the perfect time for you. Just make sure you stay on top of moisturizing your tattoo!
❄️ Winter: The Perfect Season ❄️
Winter months are the perfect time to get inked — especially if you’re starting a larger piece like a sleeve or back tattoo that will take multiple sessions to complete.
Pros:
Less risk of excessive sweating.
Easier to stay indoors and let the tattoo heal properly.
Less UV exposure and risk of fading.
Easiest time to snag the appointment time you want.
Tattoo will be perfectly healed by Summer.
Winter Breaks make it easier to get the time off.
Cons:
Cold air can cause the tattoo to dry out more easily.
Increased layers of clothing could rub and irritate the tattoo.
Other bills (like Thanksgiving, or saving up for Christmas)
Verdict:
Winter is all around the best time, and least booked for tattoos. If you have the extra money set aside, after saving up for the Holidays, book that tattoo you’ve been wanting during Winter. Your artist will have a more flexbile schedule, and the risk of external factors affecting the healing process are the lowest.
🌸 Spring: A Good Middle Ground 🌸
Spring is a solid choice for all types of tattoos. The weather isn’t too hot yet, and you still have a chance to have your tattoo fully healed by summer if you book early enough in the season.
Pros:
Tax returns means extra spending money.
Weather isn’t too hot or too cold.
Tattoo willl likely still be healed by summer.
Cons:
Artists start getting booked out, might be harder to secure an appointment.
Pollen and allergies could cause skin sensitivity.
Verdict:
Plan Ahead! Spring is when a lot of people start booking again — scheduling your appointment early ensures you get the artist and date you want.
Final Thoughts
While fall and winter tend to be the best times for healing, the real best time to get tattooed is when you’re ready — physically, financially, and mentally. As long as you follow proper aftercare and plan around your activities, your tattoo will heal beautifully no matter the season. If you’re thinking about your next piece, book a consultation at Apollo Tattoo Studios in Kissimmee, FL. Our artists can help you plan your design, placement, and timing to make sure your tattoo looks its best all year round.
