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Can People With Diabetes Get Tattoos


Do You Know About Innovative Tattoos

Myth: Diabetics cant have Tattoos.

Researchers have developed a type of tattoo that changes colors depending on the bodys pH, albumin and blood sugar levels.

The sensor measures blood sugar levels and changes the color of the tattoos filling from light green to dark green depending on the concentration of glucose.

Think it could change your life? Right now, its only at its clinical trials stage! To be continued

Avoid Certain Parts Of The Body

If you have diabetes, youre best to avoid getting tattoos and piercings on certain areas on your body where theres a risk of poor circulation.


Tattoos and piercings in these places usually take longer to heal, which can cause infections. These include your bum, shins, ankles and feet.

You should also avoid areas where you usually inject insulin, like your arms, stomach and thighs, so you can clearly see if any infections are developing on these sites. If you use, or are considering using flash glucose monitoring, these should not be worn over areas with tattoos, as this could impact your results.

Use a licensed tattooist or piercer. Tattoo and piercing studios in the UK all need a licence from their local authority. This means that theyre trained and follow correct, safe and hygienic procedures.

Make sure the studio you choose has this licence. You could also ask around for recommendations of a good studio to use or look at online reviews. Picking a safe and hygienic studio is really important. Unclean equipment can also cause infections and other illnesses.

The Pop Factor: How To Make Your Tattoos Jump From Your Skin

A new tattoo should look vibrant and fresh, like a burst of color and design that pops from your skin. How long it continues to look that way depends on a lot of things and aging plays a significant role in your tattoos appearance including how well you maintain it. Weve already talked plenty about tattoo aftercare, but consistent maintenance in the weeks, months, and years after you first get a tattoo is extremely important.


Theres no set timeline for when a tattoo begins to fade because its different for every person. People age at different rates, too a quick scan of the room at your 20th high school reunion is all the proof you need. But other factors affect your tattoos vibrancy:

  • Placement Again, location matters. Tattoos on certain parts of your body will fade faster than on others, such as on your feet, fingers, and lips. Its not surprising that hands are on the fast-fade list given how often we use them each day. Also, the skin on your fingers is thinner than the skin in most other places.
  • Ink The inks color and quality also affect your tattoos fade rate. As a general rule, lighter colored ink fades faster than darker ink, especially if it stands alone. The lighter ink in most tattoos is used to highlight darker colors, however.
  • Sun Keeping your tattoo protected from the suns UV rays is crucial for it to maintain its vibrancy.

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What Is The Risk Of Having A Tattoo

One of the most common symptoms of type 2 diabetes is slow-healing wounds. Note that getting tattoos involves skin-piercing and insertion of pigment under the skin. This can result in small wounds or cuts. Remember that for people with diabetes, healing time may take longer than expected. As a result, complications may happen.

Where To Buy Diabetic Tattoo Ink

Diabetes And Tattoos: 7 Things To Know Before Getting ...

This page is to highlight people with diabetes and their tattoos. Using a liquid with biosensors instead of traditional ink scientists want to turn the surface of the human skin into an interactive display an idea that makes this proof of concept an exciting one to watch.


Mit S Color Changing Tattoos Are Perfect For Diabetics

where to buy diabetic tattoo ink is important information accompanied by photo and HD pictures sourced from all websites in the world. Download this image for free in High-Definition resolution the choice “download button” below. If you do not find the exact resolution you are looking for, then go for a native or higher resolution.

Don’t forget to bookmark where to buy diabetic tattoo ink using Ctrl + D or Command + D . If you are using mobile phone, you could also use menu drawer from browser. Whether it’s Windows, Mac, iOs or Android, you will be able to download the images using download button.

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Talk To Your Healthcare Provider First

Before you commit to a date and a design, you should consult with your practitioner. While all blood glucose levels should be individualized, the American Diabetes Association suggests that most adults with diabetes should aim for a hemoglobin A1C of around 7%, which means that your estimated average blood sugar is about 154mg/dL.


If your blood sugars are much higher than this, your healthcare provider will probably recommend that you reconsider your tattoo for a time when it is safer for you.

Diabetes And Infections: Why Tattoos And Piercings May Affect Your Risk

While the American Diabetes Association hasnt issued a position on body art, diabetes experts pull from smart recommendations based on clinical knowledge of how someone with diabetes may heal and the complications they may face. The skin is your bodys largest organ and protects you from the outside world. When theres an opening in the skin, which is what happens during a tattoo or piercing, theres always the opportunity for an infection, explains Suzanne Ghiloni, RN, CDE, a nurse educator at Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston. The risk of infection is why youre encouraged to perform good foot care and avoid, as best you can, getting cuts on your feet.

And it’s not just a theoretical problem a study published in October 2012 in JAMA reported on an outbreak of skin infections in four U.S. states arising from tattoos, linked to contaminated ink.

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Can Diabetics Get Tattoos

Many diabetics can get tattoos, but you have some unique considerations. First, you need to have control over your diabetes and blood sugar levels. Then, you need to choose a reputable tattoo artist who follows standard safety procedures to protect you during the tattoo.


As long as you work with a good tattoo artist and follow their aftercare steps, you should be able to safely get a tattoo despite having diabetes. You can get a tattoo of whatever you want, and your diabetes doesnt have to keep you from expressing yourself with a body modification.

Can People With Diabetes Get Tattoos

Getting a Tattoo With Type One Diabetes

Can people with diabetes get tattoos? The short answer to this question is yes, with some caveats. Like anyone else, people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes should take safety precautions when getting body art.

The tattooing procedure utilizes a machine that pierces the skin up to 3,000 times per minute with a sterilized needle. The needle deposits pigment in the second layer of skin, called the dermis. The skin is the largest organ of the body and its purpose is to protect the body from outside contaminants. Anytime this protective barrier is damaged, there is a risk of infection.

Anyone, diabetic or no, considering getting a new tattoo should look for a reputable, licensed tattoo artist with the highest quality sanitation practices. Nonsterile needles can transmit bacterial skin infections, hepatitis, and other infectious diseases. Contaminated tattoo inks have also caused infections in some cases, according to the FDA. You can do your homework on what kind of ink will be used by your local tattoo parlor, and check the FDA website for information about any inks that have been recalled or should otherwise be avoided.

Some people may also have an allergic reaction to ingredients in the tattoo ink, resulting in a rash, blisters, or swelling at the site. This kind of reaction can happen at any time, from immediately after you get your first tattoo to decades later.


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Can You Get A Tattoo Or Piercing If Youre Diabetic

Diabetes has a lot of contraindications, but can you get a tattoo or piercing if youre diabetic?

Diabetes can affect everyday life in many ways, but luckily theres no problem if you decide to get a tattoo or piercing. Like any other person, these procedures require some basic care so that there are no complications. In the case of a diabetic person, there are some extra things that you might want to take into account. These are some of the things you need to consider if you decide to get a tattoo or piercing if youre diabetic.

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A1c Requirements For People With Diabetes Getting Inked

The A1C is a blood test for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics every 2 to 3 months. This will determine if your management plan is working and the average of your blood sugar.

Each individual has their own target range, some run higher and others lower. An A1C of 7.5 for children is advisable. An adult has met their target range if their A1C is between 5 7, and ready to get tattooed.


Keep your doctor in the loop before the appointment, they know best whether your body can absorb the piercing of the skin with indelible ink or the process might affect any other underlying condition. Some tattoo enthusiasts will be given the green light with an A1C of 8.

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Tattoos And Body Piercings: A Guide For People With Diabetes

By Elisabeth Almekinder RN, BA, CDE

The best way to know if its safe for you to get a tattoo with diabetes is to see your doctor or healthcare provider. They can review your numbers, draw your A1C, and determine if your diabetes is controlled. If your diabetes is not well controlled, or if your blood pressure is elevated, you should take measures to get both within range prior to getting a tattoo.

After you are evaluated by the healthcare provider and they confirm that your diabetes is under control,you will be given clearance to get a tattoo or a piercing. It will also be a good idea to have the doctor write a note, or even a prescription, in attention of the tattoo parlor or piercing clinic that will be performing the procedure. Normally, a tattoo or piercing establishment will take the word of the client, and the forms that you fill out there should have a question about diabetes, and whether its controlled.


Your response should be honest on the form, and if your diabetes is not well-controlled, lying about it could be to your peril. The question is on the form for your own safety, Understand that it is imperative that your diabetes must be controlled, along with your blood pressure, prior to obtaining a piercing or tattoo with diabetes.

Take Care Of Yourself After Your Tattoo Or Piercing

Diabetes and Awareness Tattoos

Its really important to keep a close watch on your blood sugar levels after a tattoo or piercing and keep it clean and covered. This will help it to heal well and quickly.

If you get an infection, your blood sugar levels might rise. See your GP straight away for help if you show any signs of infection or feel unwell after a tattoo or piercing.

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Can You Get A Tattoo If You Have Diabetes

Absolutely! A person with diabetes can get a tattoo if they so desire but it is advisable that your A1c be under 8% and ideally under 7%.


If you have had A1cs over 9%, are experiencing neuropathy, circulation or kidney problems, the University of Southern Californias REAL Diabetes program states that you could be putting your life in danger by getting a tattoo. This is because you will most likely have issues with healing that will make you more susceptible to infection and gangrene.

Sanitary Practices And The Risk Of Infection Or Disease

The process of tattooing involves injury to the skin, which may open it up to infection. Infection is one of the more common risks of tattoos, especially those done at home or in unlicensed facilities. People who live with autoimmune disease and already have a compromised immune system, or whose immune system is suppressed through medication, may be at increased risk of infections.

The body is less able to defend itself against bacteria when there is active inflammation or a lowered immune response. People who live with autoimmune conditions will want to ask about and follow the aftercare instructions from the tattoo artist carefully and consult a healthcare provider at the first sign of infection.

Even when a tattoo is performed in a reputable facility, bacteria that live on the body may get under the skin during the process. During healing, the tattooed area may be itchy, and scratching it could lead to bacteria getting under the skin and causing infection.

Equipment, ink, or needles that are not kept sterile or are reused can also become contaminated and lead to infection with bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. Cases of fungal infection have been reported also, but these appear to be rare.


Another risk of receiving a tattoo in a non-sterile environment or with used equipment is in contracting a bloodborne disease, such as hepatitis.

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Where Should The Tattoo Be Placed Or Inked

People who do not have diabetes can choose any part of their body to get inked. However, for those diagnosed with the said condition, there are specific areas of the body that you should avoid getting tattooed. These include:

  • Shin
  • Thighs
  • Abdomen

For body parts such as the arms, abdomen, and thighs, remember that these are areas where insulin shots are administered. Apart from that, if you place your tattoo in these specific parts, complications or infections may happen.

The Importance Of Aftercare

Getting a Tattoo with Type 1 Diabetes! // missalannanielsen

Its worth noting that tattoo artists should offer some guidelines about skin care after receiving a tattoo. According to one study of licensed tattooists in New York City, 56% received training on tattoo-related skin conditions, but 92% were consulted about skin issues by their clients.


Most tattoo artists are interested in learning more about skin conditions related to tattoos. However, with only about half reporting being trained, its important to note that adverse reactions may need to be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Some tips to keep in mind before and after getting a tattoo:

  • Seek out a reputable, licensed tattoo artist, and ask questions about tattoos and autoimmune conditions.
  • The skin in the area to be tattooed should be disinfected before starting.
  • Tattoo artists should wear gloves while working.
  • Equipment used should be from sealed packages to ensure they are sterile and only used once.
  • Nondisposable equipment should be cleaned using a machine that sterilizes them with heat .
  • After the tattoo is complete, keep the area clean with soap and water, avoid exposing it to the sun, use a moisturizer, and dont go swimming.
  • Dont scratch or pick at any scabs that form on the tattoo.
  • It can take a few weeks for a tattoo to heal, so its important to continue any aftercare instructions during that time.

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Motivation Behind Getting Tattoos

Desire to get a tattoo may come from a want to express yourself artistically and decoratively. Or perhaps you want to get a tattoo that is diabetes-related and use it as a means of creating support and awareness.

Some people with diabetes decide to get a tattoo as medical identification. In a medical emergency, medical personnel know that they have diabetes and can act accordingly.


Self-expression: Many people get tattoos that replicate things that have meaning to them, a design, an animal, a quote, a date. Looking at a daily reminder of something you love is a way to express yourself artistically and bring you happiness.

Diabetes awareness and support: You may want to get a tattoo to raise awareness and support for the disease that affects your life daily. Some people with diabetes decide to tattoo the universal symbol for diabetes, which is the blue circle.

Wearing this symbol on your body may help you feel connected to others with diabetes while also raising awareness and support for the fight against the disease. Online, you will find that a blue and gray ribbon with a drop of blood is another symbol designed to raise diabetes awareness. This is also a common type of tattoo that people with diabetes may choose to get.

For example, it may be difficult to identify someone with diabetes by using a tattoo because people do not always get them on a spot that is exposed. This can make it difficult for emergency personal to find it.

Is A Tattoo The Right Choice For You

Getting a tattoo is a very permanent choice, and for the wrong person, it can be a life-threatening choice. While none of us want to let diabetes tell us what we can or cannot do, being honest about your overall blood sugar control before getting a tattoo is pretty darn important.

If the idea of getting a tattoo motivates you to improve your blood sugars, thats awesome!

In the meantime, maybe grab a Sharpie marker and draw one on there every day until youre ready.

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Considerations Before Getting A Tattoo

If you live with a chronic or autoimmune disease such as inflammatory bowel disease , lupus, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, or psoriasis, you may be wondering if it is wise to get a tattoo.

Whether or not it is safe to get a tattoo is a discussion that is best had with a healthcare professional. Several questions should be considered, including if the disease or condition is well controlled and if there is an increased risk of developing a complication, such as an infection.

In all cases, tattooing should only be performed by a licensed, experienced professional in a reputable location who uses sterile equipment.

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