Not at all. You can get tattooed in Los Angeles during the summer — you just need to plan the healing period a little differently because of the stronger sun, warmer weather, and more frequent beach or pool activities.

During the first stage of healing, a fresh tattoo should be kept out of direct sunlight. Since sunscreen should not be applied directly to a fresh tattoo, the easiest option is usually to protect the area with clean, loose, lightweight clothing when you are outside. A loose long-sleeve shirt or lightweight pants can work very well without creating unnecessary friction.

Swimming is the main thing you should plan around. I recommend giving the tattoo at least 2 weeks to heal before swimming in the ocean, a pool, or a hot tub. For people with more sensitive skin or slower healing, waiting around 3 weeks can be a better choice.

Sweating is not automatically a problem, but during the first days it is better to avoid situations where the tattoo stays excessively sweaty, dirty, or constantly rubbed by tight clothing.

So summer itself is not a bad time to get tattooed in Los Angeles. You simply need to protect the area while it heals and plan around swimming and long periods in direct sun.

Once the tattoo is fully healed, sunscreen can be used normally and is a good way to help protect the tattoo from long-term sun exposure.