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Rules and health

Health: when to see a doctor first

Most people can get a tattoo without any problems. With some conditions and medications it’s wise to check first. This article doesn’t replace a doctor: if in doubt, your doctor decides, not a website and not the studio.

Talk to your doctor first

Check before you make an appointment if any of these apply to you:

  • You take blood thinners or medicines that affect clotting.
  • You have diabetes, especially if it isn’t well controlled, because wounds can heal more slowly.
  • You have a heart condition or a heart valve condition.
  • You have reduced immunity, for example because of medication or a treatment.
  • You have a skin condition such as psoriasis or eczema on or near the spot.
  • You take medication that makes the skin more sensitive or slows healing.
  • You have a clotting disorder or an infectious condition.

This list isn’t complete. Be honest with the tattoo artist, and find out what your doctor advises. Never stop prescribed medication on your own so that you can get a tattoo.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Many doctors and studios advise against getting a tattoo during pregnancy or breastfeeding, because an infection is more troublesome then and little is known about what pigments do. So it’s better to wait, and talk to your midwife or doctor if you still want to know what’s possible.

Allergies

Reactions to ink can come immediately, or only weeks to years later. Red and yellow pigments are often mentioned, but it can happen with other colours too. The BfR, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, points this out. If you are sensitive to certain metals, or your skin has reacted to something before, say so beforehand. Sometimes a small test on an inconspicuous spot is possible, but that doesn’t rule out a later reaction. If you get bumps or itching in one colour, see a doctor or dermatologist and say which colour it is.

Moles and spots

Don’t have a mole tattooed over: you want a doctor to be able to see any change. A good tattoo artist works around it. If you have a spot that is changing, have it checked first before anything is tattooed around it.

Giving blood

After a tattoo you may not give blood or plasma for four months, both according to Sanquin in the Netherlands and at German blood banks. The reason: some infections can’t yet be detected in the blood in the early period. Touch-ups count too. Planning a tattoo and you’re a donor? Then schedule your donor appointment after it, or take a short break.

MRI scans

Modern inks rarely cause problems in an MRI scanner. Some people do feel warmth or a burning sensation on the spot, especially with large dark pieces. So always mention beforehand at the scan that you have a tattoo.

Recovering after surgery or illness

After surgery, flu or a period of illness, wait until you’re fully yourself again. Your body uses its energy differently for repairing the skin. The wound isn’t a problem for a healthy body, but it is a strain. Moving an appointment is no problem at all if the studio knows in time.

During and after the session

Say so if you don’t feel well. Getting dizzy happens more often than you’d think, and is usually quickly solved with a break, something sweet and something to drink. For signs after the session: see healing week by week. With a fever, red streaks or pus, see a doctor the same day.

Frequently asked

Can I get a tattoo while pregnant?

It’s generally advised against, also during breastfeeding. Talk to your midwife or doctor, and better wait.

How long after a tattoo can’t I give blood?

Four months, both at Sanquin in the Netherlands and in Germany.

Can a mole go under a tattoo?

Better not. A doctor needs to be able to see changes, so a tattoo artist works around it.

Sources

General information, not medical or legal advice. Aftercare advice from the studio comes first.