Can You Get a Tattoo If You Have Psoriasis or Eczema

Can You Get a Tattoo If You Have Psoriasis or Eczema

Tattoos are a popular form of self expression, but if you live with a skin condition such as psoriasis or eczema, you may be unsure whether it is safe to get one. These conditions can make skin more sensitive and prone to irritation, which raises valid concerns about the tattooing process. The good news is that it is possible for some people with psoriasis or eczema to be tattooed, but there are important factors to consider before making a decision. Understanding how your skin condition interacts with tattooing will help you make an informed and safe choice.

Understanding Psoriasis and Eczema

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, leading to patches of red, scaly, itchy or sore skin. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a condition that causes inflammation, dryness and irritation. Both conditions affect the skin barrier, making it more reactive to external stress. Tattooing involves piercing the skin repeatedly with a needle to insert ink into the dermis. For someone with psoriasis or eczema, this can carry additional risks, as the skin may not heal in the same way as unaffected skin and may be more likely to react.

The Tattoo Process and Skin Conditions

Tattooing creates a controlled wound, and for healthy skin this usually heals within a few weeks. For people with psoriasis or eczema, tattooing over affected skin can be problematic. The repeated trauma of the needle may trigger new flare ups, particularly through a phenomenon called the Koebner response, where trauma to the skin can cause new lesions to appear. Because of this, most professional tattoo artists will avoid working on areas where there are active flare ups or broken skin. However, many people with these conditions have tattoos on unaffected skin without major issues.

Pain, Healing and Recovery

Tattooing is painful to varying degrees, but those with psoriasis or eczema may find the experience more uncomfortable if their skin is already sensitive. Healing may also take longer, and during recovery the risk of itching, dryness and flaking is higher. Normally, tattoos take around two to four weeks for the surface to heal, with full recovery taking six weeks or longer. For those with psoriasis or eczema, flare ups during this period can make healing unpredictable. The key is to choose a time when your condition is well managed and your skin is in its healthiest state.

Aftercare Considerations

Aftercare is crucial for everyone, but even more so if you have psoriasis or eczema. Fresh tattoos must be kept clean with gentle, fragrance free soap and patted dry with a clean towel. Moisturising is important, but it is vital to use products that are safe for sensitive skin and approved by your tattoo artist. Heavy ointments or perfumed lotions may aggravate your skin, so always check with both your healthcare provider and the studio before applying anything new. Loose clothing, avoiding scratching, and keeping your skin hydrated will all help the healing process. It is also wise to avoid long exposure to water, such as swimming or baths, until the tattoo is fully healed.

Cost and Professional Approach

The cost of a tattoo is not affected by psoriasis or eczema. Prices in the UK still depend on size, detail, placement and the artist’s reputation, with smaller tattoos starting at around sixty to eighty pounds. What does change is the level of responsibility taken by both client and artist. A reputable artist may refuse to tattoo over affected skin, and in some cases they may ask for a doctor’s note if they have concerns. This might feel inconvenient, but it is a sign of professionalism and a commitment to your safety.

Risks and Safety Concerns

The main risks for people with psoriasis or eczema are flare ups, delayed healing and potential infection. The Koebner response can cause new patches of psoriasis to develop at the tattoo site, even if the area looked clear beforehand. For eczema, broken or inflamed skin increases the chance of infection, and tattooing over such areas should always be avoided. Allergic reactions to tattoo ink are rare, but people with existing skin conditions may be more susceptible. Always monitor your tattoo closely during healing and seek medical advice if you notice excessive redness, swelling, or discharge.

Suitability and Medical Advice

Not everyone with psoriasis or eczema will be suitable for tattooing. If your condition is severe, frequently flares up, or affects large areas of your body, you may want to reconsider. However, if your condition is mild, well controlled, and you choose a placement on clear skin, you are more likely to have a successful outcome. Consulting your GP or dermatologist before booking an appointment is always sensible. They can advise whether your skin is currently healthy enough for tattooing and if there are specific products or aftercare routines you should follow.

What to Expect from a Professional Studio

A reputable UK tattoo studio will always put your health first. Artists will work only on healthy, intact skin and will follow strict hygiene standards with sterilised equipment and single use needles. They should take the time to discuss your skin condition with you, respect your boundaries and give thorough aftercare instructions tailored to your needs. If a studio is willing to tattoo over broken or inflamed skin without hesitation, this is a red flag and you should walk away.

FAQs and Common Myths

A common myth is that people with psoriasis or eczema cannot get tattoos at all. This is not true, but tattoos should never be done on active flare ups or broken skin. Another common question is whether tattoos can cure these skin conditions. Tattoos do not treat psoriasis or eczema and in some cases may even trigger flare ups. Some people wonder if colour tattoos are riskier than black and grey. Certain pigments can cause more irritation, but this varies from person to person and should be discussed with your artist.

Final Thoughts

People with psoriasis or eczema can get tattoos, but the process requires careful timing, preparation and aftercare. The condition should be well controlled, the skin should be clear at the site of the tattoo, and professional medical advice is always recommended before booking. With a reputable artist, strict hygiene standards and the right aftercare routine, many people with these conditions enjoy tattoos safely and without complication. The most important thing is to listen to your body, work closely with your healthcare provider, and choose an artist who respects your health as much as your artwork.