If you have scleroderma, consult your scleroderma expert prior to getting a tattoo. They may advise some precautions, such as taking antibiotics before the procedure. They may ask you to wait until your illness is stabilized, or your treatments (especially immunosuppressants) are ended.
There are many Medical Complications of Tattoos. Additionally, people with scleroderma may not be eligible to have Tattoo Removal.
About 17% of people regret getting a tattoo, and this is called Tattoo Remorse. Contemplating the Social Considerations of Tattoos and consulting your scleroderma expert ahead of time might help avoid such remorse.
Some of us find that the increased risk of infection or immune response to a tattoo are not worth it. In that case, we pursue other ways to express our creativity, social affiliations, or lasting memories. See Temporary Tattoos and Henna for tips, warnings, and body paint recipes. (Also see What is Scleroderma and Types of Scleroderma)
Tattoos and Blood Donation. People with systemic scleroderma cannot donate blood. In the United States, rules vary by state as to waiting period for donating blood after receiving a tattoo. Basically, in states that do not regulate tattoo parlors, there is a 12 month wait to donate blood after receiving a tattoo. ISN.
Medical Complications of Tattoos. Potential complications of tattoos include infections, allergic reactions, and skin diseases. ISN.
Overview of Medical Complications of Tattoos Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MRI) and Tattoos Medical Complications of Tattoos |
Scleroderma Tattoo Reactions Reporting Problems to FDA |
Medical Eligibility for Tattoos. People with any chronic illness—especially autoimmune diseases, skin diseases, or diabetes—should check with their doctor before getting a tattoo. ISN.
Your Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA. If you have had a bad reaction to a tattoo, permanent make-up, or temporary tattoo you can report the reaction to the FDA. FDA.
Social Considerations of Tattoos. Acceptance of tattoos varies widely by tribes and cultures throughout the world. ISN.
Tattoo Remorse. Even well-considered body art can become undesirable. Tattoo remorse occurs in about 17% of people who have a tattoo. ISN.
Tattoo Removal can cost thousands of dollars and take about a year to complete. Special waterproof makeup can hide tattoos. ISN.
Overview of Tattoo Removal Tattoo Removal Contraindications Tattoo Removal Methods |
Tattoo Removal Complications Tattoo Concealers Reporting Problems to FDA |
Temporary Tattoos and Henna. If you want a tattoo but find that it is medically unwise for you, what about temporary tattoos, like henna? Make your own face paint for quick and easy body art! ISN.
SCLERO.ORG is the world's leading nonprofit for trustworthy research, support, education and awareness for scleroderma and related illnesses. We are a 501(c)(3) U.S.-based public charitable foundation, established in 2002. Meet Our Team. Donations may also be mailed to: