Tattoo Contraindications

Tattoo Contraindications & When to Reschedule

Tattooing is a form of controlled trauma to the skin. To keep things safe and healing smooth, there are certain health conditions and temporary factors that may delay or prevent you from being tattooed.

This guide explains what to watch out for — and when to reach out or reschedule.

Health Conditions That Require Disclosure or Extra Caution

If any of the following apply to you, please let me know on your intake form:

Diabetes

Especially if insulin-dependent. This can slow down healing or increase infection risk. If your blood sugar is well-managed, tattooing is generally safe.

High Blood Pressure

Only a concern if it’s severe or not well-controlled. Let me know if you’re on medication.

Autoimmune or Immunosuppressive Conditions

Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, or medications that lower immune function, may cause slower healing or higher risk of irritation/infection.

Skin Conditions

Eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis in the area being tattooed may affect ink retention. I will not tattoo over active flare-ups or broken skin.

Blood Clotting Disorders

If you have hemophilia or severe bleeding issues, tattooing is not recommended unless cleared in writing by your physician.

Hepatitis, HIV, or Other Bloodborne Conditions

You are still welcome to book. I ask that you disclose this confidentially so I can take appropriate hygiene precautions. This does not disqualify you.

Pregnancy

I do not tattoo during pregnancy under any circumstances.

Breastfeeding

This is your decision. There is no clinical evidence that tattooing affects breastmilk, but stress and hormonal shifts may affect healing.

Temporary Conditions That Require Rescheduling

Please reschedule your appointment if:

You are sick (cold, flu, fever, COVID, or infection)
You have an open cut, rash, breakout, or burn in the tattoo area
You are sunburned — even mild sunburn affects stencil application
You are under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs
You are recovering from a medical procedure or hospital visit
You have recently had Botox or filler in or near the tattoo area (wait at least 2 weeks)

Not Sure If It’s Safe to Get Tattooed?

If you're on medication, have a condition not listed above, or just aren’t feeling 100%, it’s always better to:

Check with your doctor
Or message me ahead of time

Being tattooed while run-down, stressed, or inflamed increases the risk of poor healing and patchy results. The better your body feels, the better your tattoo heals.

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