There is no evidence that getting a tattoo increases the risk of serious complications of systemic lupus erythematosus. However, autoimmune diseases affect the skin’s healing process, so you may need to take special safety precautions.
If you have systemic lupus erythematosus, you may wonder if a tattoo is the best choice for your health. Autoimmune diseases can cause the body to attack its own tissues, slowing or preventing wound healing, so it’s no surprise that they also affect tattoo healing.
However, current research suggests that getting inked does not increase the risk of flare-ups, organ damage, or other long-term lupus-related complications.
That said, the recovery process may take longer and require more attention. Taking certain precautions, such as leaving your tattoo wrapped for long periods of time and applying plenty of moisturizer, can help ensure optimal healing. Here’s what you need to know:
Although current research is limited, scientists have concluded that getting a tattoo with lupus is generally safe.
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Four participants with lupus experienced mild to moderate flare-ups. However, the average time between getting the tattoo and when symptoms returned was about nine months, so inflammation is not necessarily involved.
As a result, the researchers concluded that tattoos appear to be safe for SLE patients with mild to moderate symptoms.
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The researchers also found that 13 people had skin lesions caused by CLE in their tattoos. These lesions appeared within 1 week of him getting the tattoo and 16 years after he got the tattoo.
As a result, scientists concluded that people should be warned about the small risk of developing lesions on their tattoos. But again, there is no evidence that the tattoo actually existed. caused Lesion.
In a small 2023 study of about 100 SLE patients with tattoos, about 7% of participants self-reported experiencing the following side effects from the ink:
- Mild infections (treated with antibiotics)
- Bruise
- muscle pain
- skin becomes red
- swollen lymph nodes
As a result, the researchers concluded that tattoos are relatively safe for SLE patients, as the risk of mild adverse side effects is low.
Mild to moderate lupus does not cause any serious problems related to tattoos, but people with more severe immune compromise may need to take extra precautions before getting the needle. yeah.
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After all, people with chronic illnesses are better off taking extra precautions when getting a tattoo. If in doubt, please consult a medical professional.
If you have systemic lupus erythematosus and decide to get a tattoo, there are ways to minimize risk and speed healing.
Consider waiting until your condition stabilizes before getting a tattoo. Ingesting ink during severe symptoms or significant flare-ups may increase your risk.
Thoroughly research the tattoo artist and facility before getting a tattoo. A clean, hygienic and comfortable session promotes healing. Be sure to request photos of previous work to ensure proper technique.
Prepare a more professional aftercare process. According to Lupus UK, healing time can be doubled if you have an autoimmune disease, especially if you are on steroid treatment.
For example, you may need to wrap your tattoo for 2-3 days instead of 1-2. The tattoo will not scab for up to 14 days and may remain flaky for up to a month.
The entire healing process can take up to three months, during which time you may need to apply additional moisturizer to promote healing.
Contact your dermatologist or other health care professional at the first sign of a flare-up, infection, or other concern. While many people tend to consult a tattoo artist at the first sign of a problem, people with autoimmune diseases should seek professional medical help as soon as possible.
Current research shows that getting a tattoo while suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus should not cause serious concerns. That being said, the healing process may take longer and require more care, and there may be a slightly increased risk of minor adverse events such as infections.
To minimize your risk, avoid getting a tattoo when your condition is worsening or severe. Visiting a dermatologist and providing careful aftercare will also support smooth healing.
