Stretchmarks are normal and can affect both men and women on different parts of their bodies. Some people, especially women, consider stretchmarks an aesthetic issue and feel the need to conceal them. Whatever the reason, tattoos have become a popular solution to covering stretchmarks.
If you are considering getting tattoos to cover your stretchmarks, you may have a few questions lingering over your head. Can you tattoo over stretch marks? Is it painful to cover tattoos with stretch marks? Are there risks associated with tattooing over stretch marks?
This article covers everything you need to know about tattooing over stretch marks and whether you need to consider this solution to conceal your stretch marks. Keep reading to find out more.
Is it possible to tattoo over stretch marks?
Yes, tattooing over stretch marks is possible, but whether you can consider this option depends on the following factors.
Condition of your stretchmark
If your stretchmarks are new and raised, chances are they are still sensitive since your skin is still healing and getting used to them. In that case, tattooing over the stretch marks isn’t a recommendable decision. Working on them might be very tough for a tattoo artist, and sitting through a tattooing session might be very painful for you. Moreover, tattooing over new stretchmarks can cause further harm to the skin.
The colour of your stretch marks
If your stretchmarks appear reddish or purplish, consider postponing your tattoo appointment. Fresh tattoos tend to be red or purple; as mentioned before, it is not easy to work on them and get a perfect blending. You can wait until your tattoo appears pale or white, then go ahead and get your tattoo.
The size and shape of your stretch marks
It would be best to consider the width and length of the area your stretchmarks cover. Concealing stretchmarks completely over a wider area is more difficult and might not be possible. If you want to cover a larger area of stretch marks, consider going for a bigger design as opposed to smaller ones, or you could choose to leave the remaining part be.
Make sure you find a good tattoo artist with experience working over stretchmarks who can draw a beautiful design that makes the stretchmarks unnoticeable no matter how large the area is.
The type of your stretchmarks
Stretchmarks vary in depth and texture. Before getting a tattoo over them, you can consult with your tattoo artist to evaluate whether they can work on your tattoo.
Is tattooing over stretchmarks painful?
Getting a tattoo is usually a painful procedure, but the pain can vary from person to person, depending on the part of the body to be tattooed.
Tattooing over stretch marks can be more painful than normal skin since stretch marks are like scars, and damaged skin tends to be a little more sensitive. However, this doesn’t mean you cannot tattoo over your stretch marks. Think about the results; if you can bear the pain, you can go through it.
Remember to avoid tattooing over brand new or fresh stretchmarks, as this can be excruciatingly painful and cause skin damage. Wait till your stretchmarks are fully healed before concealing them with tattoos.
If you find the pain unbearable, you can always use numbing cream to help lessen the pain. Find numbing cream with the highest amount of lidocaine, the aesthetic responsible for numbing the skin.
Are there risks of tattooing over stretch marks?
Tattooing is a medical procedure associated with potential risks, like tattooing over stretch marks. You should seek the services of an experienced tattoo artist and follow the proper aftercare instructions after getting your tattoo to avoid infections and harm to your skin.
Additionally, unlike normal skin, stretchmarks are scars that occur due to stretching on the skin. If you get tattooed over them, some areas will not hold ink uniformly and might need a little touch-up later. If you are getting inked over a large area, it might not be as perfect as you expect. Nevertheless, experienced tattoo artists can try and create something good in the best way they can.
Summary
From the information above, it is possible to tattoo over stretch marks; however, you must consider certain factors. Don’t lose hope if you think you are still not a candidate for getting a tattoo over stretch marks. Find well-trained and experienced tattoo artists and consult with them before you make your final decision.
