Once considered a taboo, tattoos are fairly commonplace these days. Anyone who’s ever gotten a tattoo knows that getting ink on virgin skin requires a certain amount of aftercare. While processes have evolved and tattoo guns are even cordless these days, the reality still remains that individual body chemistry – and how well someone sticks to a good aftercare routine – will determine how well a tattoo heals.
Most people are familiar with the idea of getting a cover-up tattoo – a tattoo designed to cover previous ink. However, some people may want to get a cover-up tattoo to hide a scar. Whether big or small, fresh ink can give people a boost of confidence. It may also camouflage areas that make a person self-conscious. Here’s what you need to know about tattooing over scars.
Can you tattoo over a scar?
The quick answer is, yes, tattoos can go over scars. A scar is still skin, even if the texture or color is different from the surrounding area. However, expect some pushback when requesting a scar-covering tattoo. Not every tattoo artist is well versed in the necessary techniques or preparation required to effectively ink over scar tissue.
Types of scar tattoos
Tattooing over scars is usually referred to as either a camouflage tattoo or a scar tattoo. Sometimes people request that a tattoo artist use flesh-toned inks. With this, they proceed with blending the scar into the surrounding skin so that it’s nearly undetectable. However, other people may prefer to have a colorful design that still hides a scar, but is eye-catching.
How Soon Can People Get Scar Tattoos?
A common question many people have is “How soon to get a scar tattoo?” According to dermatologists, the scar must fully heal before any reputable tattoo artist will consider inking over it. This is because attempting to tattoo over skin that’s still healing can create inconsistent results. Most experts agree that the optimal timeline is to wait anywhere from six to 12 months before planning for a camouflage tattoo.
Will the Tattoo Feel More Painful?
Unfortunately, pain levels are subjective. Some people may have a lower pain tolerance – even on skin without scars. Likewise, even a tattoo applied by an expert with a gentle touch comes with some level of pain or discomfort associated with it. However, the following scar types are more uncomfortable or more difficult to camouflage:
- Atrophic scars
- Keloid scars
- Hypertrophic scars
- Burn scars
Additionally, larger, deeper, and even newer scars can also equate to a more painful experience. Scar tissue can be harder to tattoo over because the texture is different and, often enough, struggles to absorb ink like normal skin. This can translate to needing more touch ups than a tattoo placed over healthy skin. Another issue can be that the tattoo may age prematurely, thus not retaining the original crisp lines.
Hypertrophic and Burn Scars
Of the most difficult scar types, a fully healed hypertrophic scar is usually most receptive to tattooing. Typically seen on younger people, those with darker skin tones, and even in burn scars, these typically cover-up well. The scar tissue doesn’t often extend beyond the original wound, which minimizes the risks associated with scar tattoos.
Atrophic Scars
Atrophic scars are typically related to surgical incisions as well as stretch marks. While fairly common, they can be challenging only because picking a single-color design may further highlight the scarring rather than camouflage the scar. Experts recommend opting for a multicolor design to provide better coverage.
Keloid Scars
Keloid scars are considered some of the most challenging to tattoo over, considering how this particular scarring frequently expands beyond the original wound. Likewise, someone who’s prone to experiencing keloids may even trigger them when tattooing over normal skin, since it’s the body’s natural reaction to any kind of skin-related injury.
People determined to tattoo over a keloid scar may need to wait longer before getting some ink. Experts recommend waiting as much as three to five years for the scar to fully heal before sitting in a tattoo artist’s chair. More importantly, only approach a truly experienced tattoo artist with a history of tattooing over keloids for this type of project.
Risk Factors to Consider for Scar Tattoos
Even when tattooing healthy skin, there’s always a risk involved. But scar tattoos pose special challenges given that the skin has an altered texture. In some cases, tattooing over altered skin can open up an old scar, leading to further skin damage. And as mentioned earlier, depending on the type of scar tissue, the tattoo may not behave as expected with either the design morphing prematurely, the skin rejecting the ink, and can be more painful than a regular tattoo.
Just as with regular tattooing, some people aren’t good candidates for getting inked. Specifically, the following populations may want to skip the tattoo chair temporarily or at least until consulting a doctor:
- People undergoing chemotherapy
- Anyone experiencing skin irritations – including sunburns
- Pregnant or nursing women
- People with known skin conditions, autoimmune disorders, or pre-existing illnesses
Tips for Scar Tattoos
One of the best ways to avoid unwanted side effects with a scar tattoo is to consult a tattoo artist that’s experienced in that niche. Likewise, be realistic with expectations. Everything from migrating designs to ink rejection are possible. Be aware that a scar tattoo requires more frequent touch ups to prevent premature color fading.
Those familiar with the tattooing process likely already have an idea of the pain scale. New tattoo clients, however, should know that even after that one-year timeline, a new scar may still be more sensitive when getting inked. In some cases, reputable tattoo artists won’t agree to tattoo over newly healed scars because the pain can be that intense.
Finally, don’t skimp on the aftercare steps. Even with healthy skin, poor aftercare can also lead to premature fading, feathering or scarring that creates blemishes within the tattoo. In most cases, people can follow the standard tattoo aftercare regimen and don’t have to adopt new processes.
Is a Scar Tattoo Right for You?
Tattooing is a personal choice regardless of whether someone has scars or not. While some people will wear their scars with pride, others may feel self-conscious about them. The ultimate choice to get a scar tattoo will depend on someone’s willingness to sit in a tattoo chair, the type of scarring they experienced, and if they’re ultimately a good candidate for the process. However, to get the best results, people interested in getting a scar tattoo should consult with an experienced artist with a history of regularly applying ink to scars.