Health + Medications

General Guidance
I am not a medical professional and cannot provide medical advice. The information below is general and not exhaustive. If you have any health conditions or concerns, consult your medical provider before booking.

Tattooing creates a controlled wound. Any condition that affects healing, bleeding, or infection risk may impact your ability to be tattooed safely.

Skin Conditions

I cannot tattoo over:

  • Active acne

  • Open wounds or healing scars

  • Sunburn

  • Rashes or infections

  • Active flare-ups of conditions such as psoriasis

Be aware:

  • Tattooing may trigger flare-ups in conditions like psoriasis

  • Tattooing over vitiligo is possible, but may cause the area to expand or change

Heart Conditions & Blood Thinners

  • Blood-thinning medications may cause excessive bleeding and poor healing

  • Some heart conditions increase risk of infection (e.g., endocarditis)

I cannot assess medication safety—consult your doctor to confirm whether tattooing is appropriate and whether precautions (such as antibiotics) are needed.

Immune Suppression

Immune suppression (from illness or medication) can:

  • Slow healing

  • Increase infection risk

Tattooing may still be possible if your condition is well-managed, but this varies significantly. Medical clearance is strongly recommended.

Diabetes

  • Well-controlled diabetes is usually not an issue

  • Uncontrolled diabetes can slow healing and increase infection risk

  • Pain and stress from tattooing may affect blood sugar levels

Avoid areas with poor circulation. Consult your doctor if unsure.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Tattooing during pregnancy or breastfeeding is generally not recommended due to risk considerations and limited research.

  • Primary risk: infection (low likelihood, but higher consequence)

  • Ink transfer to breast milk is considered unlikely, but not well studied

While risks are low, due to liability reasons I cannot tattoo you if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Bleeding Disorders (e.g., Hemophilia)

  • Increased bleeding risk may make tattooing unsafe

  • Certain body areas (head, neck, mouth) carry higher risk

Doctor approval is required.

HIV

  • Tattooing is generally safe for individuals with well-controlled HIV

  • Not recommended if unmanaged

Standard infection control procedures are followed for all clients.

Hepatitis

Tattooing is generally safe, but:

  • Extra care should be taken during healing

  • Keep the tattoo properly covered

Saniderm (adhesive bandage) is strongly recommended.

Severe Allergies

  • Notify me of any severe allergies in advance

  • Ink ingredient information can be provided upon request

Allergic reactions are rare but cannot be fully predicted or prevented.

Epilepsy

  • Seizure conditions should be stable and well-managed

  • Consult your doctor before booking

Tattooing may not be appropriate if seizures are frequent or unpredictable.

Medications

Most medications are compatible with tattooing, but some may affect the process:

  • Blood thinners: increased bleeding

  • Certain antibiotics / acne medications: increased skin sensitivity

  • Immunosuppressants: slower healing

  • Medications affecting cognition: may impair consent or tolerance

If unsure, check with your prescribing provider.

Final Note

Please ensure you are in good general health before your appointment.
If you are uncertain about any condition, consult your doctor first.

Tattoos can always wait—your health comes first.