Psoriasis And Tattooing
Contrary to popular belief, people with psoriasis can in fact get tattoos. There are some changes to the normal routine of tattooing, as well as after-care for the tattoo. Read on to find out more!
Psoriasis and its effects on tattooing
Psoriasis is a skin condition that makes the skin red, itchy, and scaly. There are many types of psoriasis, but all affect the skin and make it difficult to tattoo. Because of the irregularity of the skin, tattooing an even design becomes a problem. The machine may not be able to penetrate the skin as well as it could non-damaged skin, and thus the lining will not be solid. Similarly the shading and color may not be able to penetrate as deep because of the irregular skin.
On top of all this, the psoriasis may make it considerably more painful to tattoo. The skin affected by psoriasis is more sensitive in general, but adding the undulations of the tattoo machine to the sensitive skin can irritate the skin more, which can be painful. As well, if the tattoo artist is not experienced, they could end up cutting the skin instead of just tattooing it. This leaves the person with psoriasis open to a considerably higher chance of infection of the tattoo area.
If you are interested in getting a tattoo, try and make sure that your psoriasis is not flared up. This will minimize your chance of adverse effects.
Tattooing aftercare with psoriasis
If you are able to get a tattoo, you will still have to be careful about how you let it heal. Your tattoo artist will give you some instructions on how to care for your new tattoo. This will include keeping the bandage on for a few hours after you get tattooed, washing it in lukewarm water with an antimicrobial soap, no soaking your tattoo in a bath, and no scratching!
Most of this won't be a problem with your psoriasis, but you may have to be more diligent about not scratching if you have a habit of picking at your psoriasis. The other thing that may be a problem is your choice of soap. Some people with psoriasis find that a stronger soap is needed when they scrub, but that can negatively impact the tattoo. Instead, use a mild soap for the first month after your tattoo. This will keep the tattoo fresh and clean, and not irritate your psoriasis.
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