Tattooing With Psoriasis: Tips for a Delightful Outcome

Tattoos are an art form and a powerful form of self-expression. They can serve as a reminder of significant moments, people, and messages that are important to us. However, if you have psoriasis, getting a tattoo requires careful consideration, as it may have some drawbacks.

What Happens When You Get a Tattoo With Psoriasis?

Getting a tattoo when you have psoriasis can be a risky decision that requires careful consideration. While it is possible to get a tattoo with psoriasis, it may not be the best choice for everyone.

One of the main risks associated with getting a tattoo when you have psoriasis is the development of psoriatic lesions caused by trauma. Any injury or trauma to the skin, such as the insertion of a needle during tattooing, insect bites, or sunburn, can trigger psoriasis flare-ups and result in the appearance of lesions. Therefore, it is important to weigh the potential risks and benefits before deciding to get a tattoo if you have psoriasis.

Why Tattoos Can Trigger Psoriasis?

Tattooing involves repeatedly introducing pigment, a foreign substance, into the dermis layer of the skin using needles. This process can trigger a range of inflammatory responses, some of which can be more severe than others. As a result, it can cause inflammation and trigger psoriasis flares.

It is worth noting that tattoos cannot effectively cover the scaly patches caused by psoriasis on the skin. If you have psoriasis, you may already be familiar with the Koëbner phenomenon, where skin injury or trauma can trigger psoriasis lesions in previously unaffected skin areas. Getting a tattoo can trigger this phenomenon, leading to psoriasis flares and lesions on the tattooed area, which can make the tattoo look unsightly and even lead to complications. Therefore, it is essential to consider the potential risks before deciding to get a tattoo if you have psoriasis.

What Is the Koëbner Phenomenon?

The Koëbner phenomenon is a skin reaction that occurs in about 25% of people with psoriasis who experience skin trauma. Lesions typically appear 10 to 20 days after the injury. When someone with psoriasis gets a tattoo and the skin is traumatized, lesions identical to those present elsewhere on the body may develop on the tattooed area.

It’s important to note that tattoos always involve skin trauma, which can cause people with psoriasis to develop lesions in and around the tattoo. Additionally, people with psoriasis may also be at risk of having an allergic reaction to the ink used in the tattoo, which can trigger an immune response and exacerbate psoriasis lesions.

Unfortunately, doctors are unable to predict who will have an adverse reaction to a tattoo. If your psoriasis has been triggered by skin trauma in the past, it is crucial to weigh the potential risks and benefits before deciding to get a tattoo. If you still want to go ahead with getting a tattoo, it’s essential to consult with your dermatologist to discuss the pros and cons in detail.

What Are the Risks of Getting a Tattoo if You Have Psoriasis?

If you have psoriasis, it’s essential to understand the potential risks of getting a tattoo before making a decision. While tattooing is generally considered safe, caution and careful consideration are always recommended.

It’s worth noting that some people may be more susceptible to skin trauma and inflammation, which can trigger psoriasis flares. This includes individuals with pigment allergies, psoriasis, vitiligo, and diabetes. Additionally, people with other health conditions, such as epilepsy or hemophilia, should think twice about getting a tattoo.

Before making a decision, it’s essential to consult with your dermatologist to analyze your case and determine whether getting a tattoo is safe for you. They may recommend additional precautions, such as testing for allergies or taking steps to minimize trauma to the skin during the tattooing process.

Ultimately, the decision to get a tattoo is a personal one that should be made with careful consideration and a thorough understanding of the potential risks involved.

Do I Need to See a Doctor Before a Tattoo if I Have Psoriasis?

Before getting a tattoo, it is crucial to talk to your doctor about the potential risks, as well as any precautions you should take to protect your skin. For example, people with psoriasis may be at a higher risk of infection, allergic reactions, and scarring, so it is essential to choose a reputable tattoo parlor that follows proper hygiene practices.

When choosing a tattoo artist, it is important to inform them about your psoriasis and any other medical conditions you have. They may be able to recommend certain tattooing techniques or ink types that are less likely to trigger a flare-up. Additionally, you should avoid getting a tattoo during a psoriasis flare-up, as this can increase the risk of complications.

To prepare your skin for the tattoo, you may need to use topical treatments or avoid certain medications that can make your skin more sensitive. After the tattoo, you should follow the artist’s instructions for proper aftercare, which may include avoiding sun exposure, using moisturizer, and keeping the area clean and dry.

Getting a tattoo with psoriasis requires careful consideration and planning. By consulting with your doctor and choosing a reputable tattoo parlor, you can reduce the risk of complications and enjoy your new artwork safely.

Bonus: Is Psoriasis contagious or not?

What Care Do You Need to Have After You Get the Tattoo Done?

Aftercare is crucial for the health and longevity of your tattoo. Follow these steps to ensure that your tattoo heals properly:

1. Clean regularly and choose your washing soap well. Use soap with a neutral pH and wash the tattooed area regularly to keep it clean.
2. Hydrate with Vaseline or coconut oil. Use moisturizers to keep the tattooed area hydrated during the healing process.
3. Respect healing time. Give your tattoo time to heal properly, which can take up to 30 days.
4. Stay away from the sun. Avoid direct sunlight during the first 15 days, as it can cause burns and damage to the sensitive skin.
5. Avoid long hot baths and pools. Take warm showers instead, and avoid swimming pools, the sea, or lakes, as they can increase the risk of infection.
6. Don’t go to the gym. Avoid perspiration and physical activities during the healing process.
7. Wear loose clothes. Avoid tight clothes that can irritate the tattooed skin.
8. Don’t scratch. Resist the urge to scratch, as it can cause infection and damage to the tattoo.
9. Moisturize and protect from the sun forever. Keep your tattoo hydrated and protect it from the sun to maintain its color and quality in the long term.

Remember, good aftercare is essential for the health and longevity of your tattoo, and it’s important to follow these steps carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.

In conclusion, getting a tattoo with psoriasis requires careful consideration. However, there are still options available for those who wish to get a tattoo. If you experience any adverse reactions after getting a tattoo, it is important to consult with a dermatologist for the best management of your psoriasis.