Tattoo Aftercare for Psoriasis: Managing Flares and Protecting Your Ink

18 September 2024

Tattoo Aftercare for Psoriasis: Managing Flares and Protecting Your Ink

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Individuals with psoriasis should consult their dermatologist before getting a tattoo.

Getting a tattoo with psoriasis requires careful planning and meticulous aftercare. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes raised, scaly patches (plaques) on the skin. While tattooing over active psoriasis is generally not recommended, individuals in remission may consider tattoos on unaffected skin. This guide focuses on aftercare strategies to minimize the risk of flares and protect your new ink.

Psoriasis and Tattoos: Understanding the Risks

The primary concern with psoriasis and tattoos is the Koebner phenomenon. This is where new psoriasis lesions develop at the site of skin trauma, including tattoos. Even if the tattoo is placed on clear skin, the trauma of tattooing could trigger a flare-up.

Pre-Tattoo Consultation: Essential Steps

  1. Dermatologist Approval: Absolutely essential. Your dermatologist will assess your current psoriasis status, discuss the risks, and determine if tattooing is advisable. They may recommend waiting until your psoriasis is well-controlled or in remission.
  2. Artist Selection: Choose a tattoo artist who is:
    • Experienced with tattooing individuals with psoriasis (ask directly).
    • Knowledgeable about the Koebner phenomenon.
    • Willing to work with your dermatologist’s recommendations.
  3. Placement Considerations:
    • Avoid Active Lesions: Never tattoo over active psoriasis plaques.
    • Choose Areas with Thick Skin: Areas with thicker skin (e.g., upper arms, thighs) may be less prone to the Koebner phenomenon than areas with thinner skin (e.g., hands, feet, elbows, knees).
    • Discuss with Your Dermatologist: Get their input on the safest placement options based on your individual psoriasis history.

Psoriasis-Specific Aftercare

Standard tattoo aftercare applies, but with these crucial additions:

  1. Monitor for the Koebner Phenomenon: Watch very closely for any signs of new psoriasis lesions developing around the tattoo, even weeks or months after the procedure.
  2. Gentle Cleansing: Use only mild, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry with a soft, clean, disposable paper towel. Avoid rubbing.
  3. Moisturizing (Dermatologist-Approved):
    • Consult Your Dermatologist: They will recommend the best moisturizer for your skin type and psoriasis management. This may be a specific emollient or a prescribed topical medication.
    • Avoid Irritants: Avoid any products containing fragrances, dyes, alcohol, or other potential irritants.
  4. Avoid Scratching: Itching is common during healing, but scratching can trigger the Koebner phenomenon and increase the risk of infection. Keep the area moisturized and consider using cool compresses (as directed by your doctor) to relieve itching.
  5. Sun Protection: Protect the tattooed area from sun exposure, especially during the healing process. Sunburn can worsen psoriasis and trigger flares. Use a broad-spectrum, SPF 30+ sunscreen after the tattoo is fully healed, and consider covering the area with clothing when possible.
  6. Stress Management: Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis flares. Practice stress-reducing techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
  7. Medication Adherence: Continue taking any prescribed psoriasis medications as directed by your dermatologist. Do not stop or adjust your medications without consulting your doctor.

What to Do if a Flare-Up Occurs

If you notice any signs of a psoriasis flare-up near the tattoo (redness, scaling, itching, new plaques), contact your dermatologist immediately. They may recommend:

  • Topical corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory medications.
  • Adjustments to your psoriasis treatment plan.
  • Phototherapy (light therapy).

Sources and Further Reading: