Can You Get a Tattoo if You Have Eczema or Psoriasis?
Tattoos are as popular as ever but are they safe for those of us with skin conditions? Getting a tattoo isn't a decision that should be taken lightly by anyone. Like many aspects of eczema and psoriasis, this is an individual choice. Getting a tattoo can be an empowering experience for sufferers, allowing them to express their individuality and giving them a much-needed emotional boost. However, you should consider the severity of your condition, any allergies you may have, and your personal preferences/priorities.
You may be hesitant to get a tattoo due to concerns about how it may affect your skin. While tattoos are generally safe, there are some risks and precautions to consider if you have eczema or psoriasis. This article will explore what you need to know before getting inked.
Getting a Tattoo with Eczema or Psoriasis: What are the Risks?
While getting a tattoo with eczema is generally safe, there are some risks associated with the procedure. One of the biggest risks is infection, as eczema can weaken the skin's barrier and make it more susceptible to bacteria. Additionally, the tattoo ink can cause an allergic reaction or irritate the skin, leading to a flare-up of eczema symptoms. It's important to discuss your skin condition with your tattoo artist and take precautions to minimize the risk of infection and irritation.
There are associated risks for anyone getting a tattoo, but they are increased for anyone with skin issues or sensitivities. These risks include:
Itching- When a wound heals, it tends to itch. Skin condition sufferers, particularly those with eczema often feel this symptom anyway so a tattoo can increase their discomfort. The key is to resist the urge to scratch. Scratching can damage the fresh skin and potentially cause infection.
Infection- All tattoos are at risk of becoming infected. The body identifies the ink as a foreign body and crates an infection to try and expel it. Signs of infection include pain, redness, discharge, fever + swelling. Avoid touching the tattoo with dirty hands or allowing others to touch it.
Hyperpigmentation- Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces too much melanin, resulting in dark patches or spots on the skin. This condition can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, sun exposure, and certain medications. It can also be caused by trauma to the skin, such as that which occurs during the tattooing process. Darkening/discolouring of the skin can occur when a tattoo is close to/over an existing patch of eczema or psoriasis.
Allergic Reaction- Allergies to tattoo ink are actually pretty rare, but skin condition sufferers tend to be more susceptible. Red inks are associated with the highest risks, with black ink thought to be the safest. An allergic reaction to tattoo ink may manifest in various ways, such as a rash, bumps, flaking or a fever. If you experience an allergic reaction, it's crucial to seek medical advice. Your doctor may prescribe topical or oral corticosteroids, antihistamines, or other medications to alleviate the symptoms.
Flare-Ups- Skin damage or infection can lead to a flare-up, with many individuals experiencing increased symptoms such as redness and itching. A psoriasis flare-up after a skin injury is known as the Koebner Phenomenon. Research (Reference 1) has found that 5.3% of those with psoriasis who choose to get a tattoo develop this.
Scars- Scarring can occur when a tattoo doesn't heal properly. This can also happen when sufferers try to cover the old marks left behind by previous patches of eczema or psoriasis.
Precautions to Take Before Getting a Tattoo with Eczema or Psoriasis
If you have eczema or psoriasis and are considering getting a tattoo, there are several precautions you should take to minimise the risk of infection and irritation. First, it's important to discuss your skin condition with your tattoo artist and make sure they are experienced in working with clients who have sensitive skin. Have a conversation with your tattoo artist in advance and be completely honest on any medical forms you are asked to complete. Your tattoo artist having an awareness of your skin condition can be a big help. Some studios also have specialist hypoallergenic ink available, designed for sensitive skin types. They may also be able to offer to use latex-free gloves and allergy-friendly moisturisers. Most studios are aware of skin conditions, many will have a medical form to fill in which will ask you to confirm whether you are suffering from eczema or psoriasis, along with any other health issues they should be aware of.
You should also avoid getting a tattoo during a flare-up of eczema or psoriasis symptoms, as this can increase the risk of infection and make the tattoo more painful. If your skin is currently at its worst, or if you are experiencing the tell-tale signs of an upcoming flare-up, we would recommend you postpone your appointment. Most reputable studios would not go ahead anyway if they think there is any cause for concern. In some countries, it is actually illegal to tattoo someone with an active flare-up. This is the case even if you are getting a tattoo in a different area to the flare-up, as this suggests an increased immune response system-wide.
Additionally, you should keep the tattoo clean and moisturised during the healing process to prevent infection and minimise irritation.
Before you commit to your tattoo, speak to the artist and check the following credentials:
They are fully licensed
They have experience dealing with clients who have skin conditions
They follow health + safety procedures, such as single-use needles
They can use hypoallergenic ink (or can order some)
Their recommended aftercare procedures
What they advise in case of a flare-up
When Not to Get a Tattoo with Eczema or Psoriasis
There are certain circumstances where it is advisable for eczema or psoriasis sufferers to get a tattoo:
If you are experiencing a flare-up- as outlined above, this increases your chance of a bad reaction to the dye
It is recommended you are immunised against Hepatitis B- in most reputable studios, this won’t be an issue as health and safety guidelines are followed, but its better to be safe than sorry
if you’ve ever experienced keloid scarring
if you’ve been drinking heavily or are hungover- alcohol thins the blood which could cause issues
If you have a medical condition involving bleeding, diabetes, or heart disease- consult a doctor first
if you have previously had an allergic reaction to tattoo ink
Aftercare Tips for Your Tattoo with Eczema or Psoriasis
If you have eczema or psoriasis and have decided to get a tattoo, it's important to take extra care during the healing process. After all, the procedure of getting a tattoo is effectively damaging the middle and upper layers of your skin barrier, and so it should be treated as a wound. First, make sure to keep the tattoo clean and dry, but also moisturised with a fragrance-free and hypoallergenic lotion. Avoid using any products that contain alcohol, fragrances, or other irritants that could trigger an eczema flare-up. It's also important to avoid scratching or picking at the tattoo, as this can increase the risk of infection and damage the design. Some eczema sufferers find an oatmeal bath soothing on a newly tattooed area once your bandages have been removed. Finally, if you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your doctor or dermatologist immediately.
Other Tips for Getting a Tattoo with a Skin Condition
Still, wanting to take the leap? Here are our tips for a skin-friendly tattoo experience:
Be 100% certain- There is nothing worse than tattoo regret! Make your chosen design your phone wallpaper or print out a copy and place it somewhere prominent. Take a few weeks to make a decision and if you still love it- go for it!
Choose the body area carefully- Avoid areas that are prone to flare-ups. Those who only have mild to moderate eczema or psoriasis tend to have some body parts unaffected by the condition, these would make ideal areas for a tattoo. Having a tattoo somewhere you flare up is not only riskier but you'll be less inclined to show it off afterward! Ideally, the area would be flare-up free in the months leading up to your appointment. Some eczema sufferers like the idea of getting a tattoo to cover up an eczema scar where their skin has healed. Unfortunately, that isn’t a good idea as you could risk worsening the scar.
Insist on a path test- Many studios will offer a patch test prior to your appointment. This involves tattooing a tiny dot in your proposed tattoo location and confirming 24-48 hours later that no reaction has occurred.
Select a Tattoo Artist carefully- Read as many reviews and view as many examples of their work as possible. A personal recommendation is best, if possible. Check they are fully licensed. Visit prior to your appointment to ensure you feel comfortable at the studio or if this isn't possible, arrange a telephone consultation. Depending on your location, you may find someone who has experience in dealing with clients who have skin conditions, which is a huge advantage. Even better, you may find an artist who has personal experience with eczema or psoriasis.
If you are on any specific medications for your skin condition, consult with your doctor before getting your tattoo. Some medications can slow down the healing process.
Comply with basic good practice- Don't drink alcohol or sunbathe in the 24 hours leading up to your appointment. Get a good night's sleep and drink plenty of water. Eat a meal before and don’t take any painkillers- like alcohol, they thin the blood.
Follow any advice your tattoo artist gives you in regard to aftercare. Typically this would involve covering the area in Vaseline, or other thick natural moisturiuser, and bandaging for 3-5 days.
Once you are over the initial few days of healing, use a fragrance-free moisturiser, which should help with any dryness or itching. Wash your hands before and after application to reduce the risk of infection.
See a doctor if you develop any skin ailments you are concerned about or if you suspect your new tattoo is infected. Symptoms of infection include swelling, a burning sensation, severe redness, fever, and discharge.
Conclusion
A skin condition should not stop you from getting a tattoo, or doing anything else you want for that matter! Many people with eczema and psoriasis get tattoos and have zero issues. Some sufferers use tattoos as a way of expressing themselves, refusing to be defined by their skin condition. There are patients who claim tattoos boost their confidence and self-esteem. Research (Reference 1) found that 50.7% of psoriasis sufferers claim their tattoo has boosted their confidence.
Avoid them when you are having a flare-up, take extra consideration with aftercare, and have an honest conversation with your tattoo artist. Don't go ahead unless you are fully comfortable. By taking extra care during the healing process and avoiding any potential triggers, you can enjoy your new tattoo without compromising your skin health.
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1- Rogowska, Patrycja & Walczak. Tattooing in Psoriasis: A Questionnaire-Based Analysis of 150 Patients. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. 2022.
