Can you tattoo over scars?
One of the most common questions we get is whether you can tattoo over scars.
The short answer is… yes. But! It depends on several factors, including the type of scar, its age and your skin’s healing process.
Scars come in different forms, and the type of scar has a large influence as to how it can be covered with a tattoo. Some common types include:
Hypertrophic scars: These scars are raised and thick, and are often red and purple. These scars can be in fact tattooed over, but because of their texture - the design may need to be adjusted.
Keloid scars: These are more severe forms of hypertrophic scars, often spreading beyond the original wound. Tattooing over keloid scars can be quite risky as it can cause the keloid to grow further - leading to complications.
Atrophic scars: These are sunken scars, typically from acne or chicken pox. Tattooing over these may be possible, but the indentation could affect the final appearance of the tattoo.
While stretch marks are not technically scars, their characteristics with scars are very similar and tattooing over them can sometimes be challenging.
A crucial factor in determining whether you can tattoo over a scar is its age. Fresh scars are definitely not suitable for tattooing as the skin is still in the process of healing. Generally, we recommend waiting at least a year before tattooing over a scar, giving it enough time to fully heal and settle.
Scar tissue can be unpredictable than regular skin, affecting how ink is absorbed and how well the design will hold. It’s important that you research carefully and choose the right artist with enough experience to tattoo over your scars.
Tattooing over scars can be more painful than tattooing over normal skin due to the increased sensitivity of scar tissue. The outcome can vary depending on the scar’s size, texture and location. In some cases, the tattoo may not look as smooth, but many find that the scar’s appearance in a positive way.
Aftercare is especially important when tattooing over scars. Since scar tissue is more fragile, the healing process may take longer than usual. Following your artist’s aftercare instructions closely is crucial to prevent any complications and to ensure the tattoo heals properly.
While it’s possible to tattoo over scars, the success of the tattoo depends on the type of scar, its age, and the skill of the tattoo artist.
Always consult with a professional tattoo artist who has experience in working with scar tissue to determine whether tattooing over your scar is the right option for you.