Tattoos and health: pregnancy, medication, allergies, MRI, sport, sun

Most artists advise to wait. There is little research and the risk of infection matters more than usual. Ask your doctor.

Tell your artist beforehand. Blood thinners, diabetes, skin conditions, immune problems and allergies may need a doctor’s okay or a different plan. Be honest on the consent form.

Rarely, but yes — often to red pigments, sometimes only after months. Itching, raised or swollen areas in one colour are the typical signs. See a doctor.

Usually yes. Tell the staff about your tattoos, because some inks contain metal particles that can warm up. Large, dark and fresh tattoos are the usual concern.

Not right away. Many blood services ask you to wait several months; check the rules of your local service.

Often yes, but not during a flare-up. Talk to your artist and, if you are unsure, your dermatologist. Tell the artist about all creams you use.

Yes, many studios use vegan inks. Ask which brand and what is in it. Vegan does not automatically mean allergy-free.

Not with a fresh tattoo: keep it covered with clothes. Once healed, use sunscreen — sun is the main reason tattoos fade.

Wait until the tattoo has fully closed and stopped peeling — usually two to four weeks. Pools, hot tubs, lakes and the sea carry germs and chemicals that harm a healing tattoo.

Light movement is fine after two to three days. Avoid heavy sweating, stretching the area and friction for the first week or two, depending on the place.

Yes. Keep it clean and covered as told, drink water and avoid long sun exposure at your destination. Plan big sessions away from beach holidays.

For most office jobs yes. For jobs with dirt, chemicals, heavy sweating or tight clothes over the area, plan some days off or a different placement.

Not before: it thins the blood and makes the session harder. Afterwards, go easy for a few days while the body heals.