Tattoos are a popular form of body art that people with lupus get just as often as people in the general population. But because lupus can cause skin symptoms, it’s common for people with the condition to wonder if getting tattoos is safe.

“Can a tattoo cause a lupus flare-up?” one MyLupusTeam member asked. Another replied, “I have three tattoos — no problems or reactions.”

About half of people who get a new tattoo experience temporary inflammation that might be itchy or painful regardless of whether they have a skin condition like cutaneous lupus (a type of lupus that can cause a scaly, discolored rash, as well as dark spots, light spots, and scars).

As long as your symptoms are stable and you don’t get a tattoo near an active lesion or scar, you don’t need to rule out tattoos because of lupus. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind, like the risk of infection or bleeding.

Tips for Getting a Tattoo With Lupus

Here are some tips on choosing the right time and conditions for your tattoo.

Find the Right Tattoo Artist

Studies show that getting a tattoo doesn’t raise the risk of flare-ups or long-term lupus complications, like organ damage. However, infections are dangerous, especially for people with an autoimmune disease like lupus. “I would make sure you go to a very clean and reputable place, since any infection could lead to a lupus flare,” a MyLupusTeam member advised.

You can check your state health department to learn more about the licensing requirements for tattoo shops and see if your tattoo artist has an active license.

Tattoo artists should always wash their hands and put on a new pair of gloves before tattooing. All needles, tubes, containers, pigments, and trays are meant for one-time use and should be taken from unopened packages. Your tattoo artist should use an autoclave (heat-sterilization machine) or a commercial disinfectant or bleach solution to disinfect any equipment that’s not disposable.

“I suggest going for something very small first. Make sure you find someone you trust, and tell them you have lupus,” another member said. “Emphasize how you need to make sure that everything is cleaned and then cleaned again, and you may have to do it in sessions. Don’t stress your body out.”

Evaluate Your Current Health

Always check with your healthcare provider before getting a tattoo. If you’re in an active flare, they’ll likely advise you to hold off until your symptoms improve and you’re no longer on high-dose medications. In general, it’s not safe to get a tattoo when taking certain medications. “I’m on blood thinners, so I can’t do tattoos,” a MyLupusTeam member shared.

You should also avoid getting a tattoo while taking acne medications or antibiotics, and use caution with immunosuppressive drugs. If you’re on long-term steroids, it may be wise to avoid getting a tattoo until you’re off them — steroids increase the risk of infection.

People with a compromised immune system or ongoing skin conditions can get tattoos, but they should wait until they’re feeling well. Lupus may mean your tattoo takes longer to heal, so you’ll need to take extra precautions with aftercare to keep the area clean and moisturized. Avoid swimming and sun exposure while your tattoo is healing, and be careful not to pick any scabs. If you notice any signs of infection, call your doctor for an appointment.

Consider Your Options

Many people on MyLupusTeam have a history of tattoos, and most reported no issues, but it’s still important to be cautious. “I have had all of my tattoos swell up and itch and feel like they are on fire. So with my personal experience, I won’t be getting any more,” one member said.

You could start with black tattoo ink if you’re nervous about your skin’s reaction to tattooing. For some people, color pigments can cause irritation. “I have four black tattoos and have no problem with them. I also have one with color that gets irritated from time to time. It’s strange that it’s just the color, though,” one MyLupusTeam member said.

You can also explore temporary alternatives. “Think seriously before getting a tattoo. You could always get some funky fake tattoos or henna,” another member suggested.

Be sure to consult with your doctor before putting anything on your skin. They can evaluate your condition to identify any issues that could affect the healing of your tattoo or trigger lupus symptoms. This information from your doctor will help you make an informed choice, reducing the chance of negative side effects.

Join the Conversation

On MyLupusTeam, people share their experiences with lupus, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

Have you discussed body art like tattoos and piercings with your dermatologist? Let others know in the comments below.