Tattoos on Scars, Sensitive Skin and During Pregnancy

Plenty of people want a tattoo but end up worrying about their skin, especially if there is a scar, if the skin is sensitive, or if they are pregnant. The question is always the same: “Can I still get tattooed?” Here is the honest answer, from a professional tattoo artist’s point of view.

1. Can you get a tattoo on a scar?

The short answer is “yes”, but it depends on the type of scar and how old it is.

• Raised scars (Keloid or Hypertrophic Scar): if you have had raised scars before, we would say “better not”, because the needle can trigger inflammation and make the scar grow even more.
• Smooth, fully healed scars: if the scar healed more than a year ago and it does not itch, look red or hurt when you touch it, tattooing is usually possible. Your artist still needs to look at the skin first, every time.
• Fresh scars from surgery or an accident: wait until the skin has fully recovered. The area is still fragile and can tear easily.

Tip: an experienced artist can design a piece that blends with the scar, so it turns into a detail you love instead of something you want to hide.

2. Can you get a tattoo if you have sensitive skin?

Yes… but it takes some preparation and extra care.

• Always tell your artist about any allergies you have had, for example to lotion, alcohol or metal.
• Ask your artist to test a little of the ink on your skin (Patch Test) before the real session.
• Avoid tattooing while your skin is inflamed, breaking out, or already reacting to something.
• After the tattoo, follow the aftercare strictly, use a cream free of irritants and do not scratch.

*If you have an ongoing skin condition such as chronic eczema or dermatitis, always talk to your doctor first.*

3. Can you get a tattoo while pregnant?

In general, we do not recommend getting tattooed during pregnancy.

The reasons:

• Your immune system is lower, so there is a higher risk of infection.
• Numbing products and tattoo ink may contain substances that affect the baby.
• The pain during the session may trigger contractions of the uterus.

It is best to wait until after the birth and after you have finished breastfeeding, then at least another 3–6 months, for the safety of both mother and baby.

The bottom line from Naive Flora Tattoo

A tattoo is art on your body, so it should always be done safely and with a good understanding of your own skin. If you have any concern about your skin or your health, the team at Naive Flora Tattoo is happy to talk everything through in detail before we start, so you end up with a tattoo that is beautiful, safe and one you feel completely confident about.

Want to know which kind of tattoo suits your skin? Come and chat with us at Naive Flora Tattoo. Every consultation before a tattoo is free.