Scars are a topic that many people deal with in silence. A scar is very challenging to remove. Therefore, it makes sense to cover up a scar with a tattoo. But can you tattoo over scars?
Yes, you can tattoo over scars. However, it is not always the best idea. It can be more challenging to tattoo over scars than it is to tattoo over skin without scars. It can be more painful and there might be other things to think about depending on the type of scar.
Keep reading if you are considering getting a tattoo over scars.
Can You Tattoo over Scars?
Atrophic scars include those from acne and stretch marks. This indicates that they make skin indentations. These scars are frequently lighter in color and soft to the touch.
It’s usually safe to tattoo over atrophic scars once they’re healed. Finding a design that can effectively hide these scars, however, can be difficult because atrophic scars are frequently discolored and don’t match your skin tone.
The ideal tattoo design for your scar can be found with the assistance of an accomplished tattoo artist. Alternately, you might want to think about getting a tattoo of a higher quality that better complements your skin tone.
Read More: Does Tattoo Removal Leave Scars?
Why Do People Tattoo over Scars?
A person might choose to cover a scar or stretch mark with a tattoo for any number of reasons.
Scars are typically covered by people because they are unsatisfied with how they appear. Most people have scars, but some are more self-conscious than others about their appearance. Some people simply feel more comfortable with tattoos covering up their scars.
Some people have scars from surviving an accident or a serious medical condition that required surgery, like breast cancer. In these situations, getting a tattoo over scars can feel like reclaiming one’s body and one’s identity.
For instance, many women who have undergone mastectomies claim they feel more confident hiding their scars with lovely, unique tattoos.
How Does It Feel to Tattoo over a Scar?
Scar tattoos may be intolerable for some people if they aren’t into that sort of thing because tattooing in general can be painful and doing so over a scar can make it worse.
The pull and poke of the needle will feel different depending on how your scar is healed because scar tissue sits differently than regular tissue.
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What to Consider When Getting a Scar-Covering Tattoo?
Getting a tattoo is all about preparation and getting informed. A scar-covering tattoo is no different.
So, before you get one, here are the things you should know and consider;
- Assessing the scar – because tattooing over certain scars can be tricky, it is important to get a consult and honest opinion from a professional tattoo artist. They will determine the type of scar, its location, and whether a tattoo can be applied. Remember that the best scars for tattooing are those without dark edges, while darker edges may preclude the use of certain scars for tattoo covering.
- Assessing the healing stage – to get a scar-covering tattoo, the scar needs to be fully healed. The healing process can take anywhere between one and five years, depending on the kind of scar. Therefore, make sure your scar has fully healed before getting inked.
- Finding a professional tattoo artist – now, this is very important; you need to find a highly professional tattoo artist who has already done similar scar-covering tattoos. Because there is a high potential for complications and scar irritation, you shouldn’t let someone without medical training handle your scar.
- Coming up with a design – it can be difficult to find a design that will creatively cover or work around the scar. Additionally, you must keep in mind that the scarred skin is not flat and smooth, meaning the tattoo’s final texture will also be present. Consider choosing a pattern that complements the scar’s texture. Avoid using geometric shapes and lines; instead, use more organically flowing designs, such as flowers.
- Handling the pain – as we mentioned earlier, getting a scar-covering tattoo can be really painful. Be sure to be both mentally and physically prepared to undergo the tattooing session by taking into account the type of the tattoo and the location of the scar. However, keep in mind that scars that have just begun to heal hurt more than scars that have been completely healed for a while.
- Aftercare and follow-ups – to prevent any type of complication, irritation, or infection, it is It is crucial to adhere to the aftercare instructions and schedule routine check-ups with your tattoo artist. The tattoo artist will be aware of how well the tattoo is healing and will let you know if anything is off.
Conclusion: Can You Tattoo over Scars
Many people choose to cover their scars with tattoos. By doing so, you may be able to mark your recovery from an illness or injury or cover up a scar that bothers you.
There are some things to think about before getting a tattoo if you want to hide a scar. Consider your scar’s type, the tattoo design that will best conceal it, the tattoo artist you should hire, and the location of your scar.
You’re more likely to achieve the best outcomes if you’ve given those things some thought.
Also Read: Can You Put Sunscreen On A New Tattoo?
FAQs About Can You Tattoo over Scars
How Long Should I Wait to Tattoo over a Scar?
Wait at least a year until a newly formed keloid scar has fully healed before covering it.
Can You Tattoo over Burn Scars?
Burn scars are typically irrational in appearance and can be sensitive to tattooing.
Can You Tattoo over Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are entirely covered by tattoos. Over-tattooing a scar is very similar to this.
