You can tattoo over scars! In many cases, scars can carry positive memories; in others, they don’t. It is why some people are proud of their scars, and others aren’t.
For anybody feeling less than happy with a scar, you can tattoo over it. For example, in recent studies, tattooing has emerged as a powerful means for individuals, including those who have undergone mastectomy, to reclaim their bodies and challenge societal norms.
You have come to the right place if you fall into this group. Say you had an accident or surgery that left some scars, and getting rid of it is close to impossible; you can tattoo over the scar.
If you’ve been considering covering up your scar with a tattoo, learning about the process will help you make informed decisions about your body.
This article will explore some of the most common types of scars you can tattoo over. We’ll also discuss considerations like costs and aftercare, both of which you must have a handle on before tattooing over a scar exercise.
If you’re ready, we are!
What Type of Scars Can You Tattoo Over?
Using tattoos to cover scars has become increasingly popular these days. Tattoos can transform the scars into meaningful art, reclaiming your bodies and stories.
You must also understand that not all scars are the same, and tattooing over them depends on some factors. But, an experienced tattoo artist can easily tattoo over fully healed scars and deliver new ink pieces with a stable, flat texture.
There are also other considerations for tattoos over scars. But before that, let’s look into some of the types of scars that you can tattoo over and the best creative ideas for a tattoo over a scar:
Flat Scars
One of the easiest scars to tattoo over is a flat or sunken scar because it provides a smooth surface for the tattoo artist to work on. An excellent example of a tattoo to put over a flat scar would be a flower or a geometric design to blend the scar into the tattoo.
Old Scars
When scars are old and fully healed, they provide a good canvas for a tattoo artist’s needle.
Their colours and textures are more stable, and the artist has a smooth passage. Do you have an old scar? You might be the perfect candidate for tattoos over scars that look good.
Surgical Scars
If you have a scar from surgery, you can also get some tattoos over it. However, you must let the scar fully heal before tattooing, and you’ll know this when it is no longer red or pink.
If you want inspiration on the type of tattoo to put over a surgical scar, a bird or butterfly would symbolize freedom or transformation.
Acne Scars
You can also put tattoos over some types of acne scars if they are flat and consistent in texture. Before you do so, though, we advise you to consult a tattoo artist experienced in working with scar tissue.
What type of tattoo should you put over your acne scar? People often tattoo the moon or sun over their acne scars to represent the cyclical nature of life and beauty.
Burn Scars
Your experienced Toronto tattoo artist will also be able to tattoo over some burn scars. Whether they’re able to depends on the severity and texture of the burn scar.
It’s better to consult with an experienced tattoo artist and a dermatologist before deciding on tattoos over burn scars.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are not technically scars, but they are within irregular skin parts, and they can be tattooed over. The success of the exercise largely depends on the colour and texture.
With stretch marks, you should incorporate a tattoo with a natural and organic design. For instance, a tattoo of vines or branches over stretch marks is an example of a tattoo that looks good over scars.
Traumatic Scars
If you have had an accident or injury in the past, they could leave traumatic scars. Once the scars are healed and your artist approves that the texture of that part of the skin won’t cause any problems during and after the tattooing exercise, you can tattoo over them.
Tattoos over traumatic scars can also be a part of the healing process. For example, a heart or star to showcase a new hope or love is a brilliant idea for a tattoo over scars.
- Looking for a tattoo in a shop in Toronto? Talk to an experienced tattoo artist about getting a tattoo over your scar.
Considerations for a Tattoo Coverup
Now that we understand the types of scars you can tattoo over, it is only fitting that we discuss some considerations or factors to examine before visiting a tattoo studio and what to know about tattooing over scars.
The decision to permanently cover a scar with a tattoo should be in consultation with a dermatologist and an experienced tattoo artist. They can assess the scar’s characteristics and guide the best approach for tattooing over it.
Scar Type and Condition
Different scars react differently to tattooing, so you must be sure your scar is suitable for a coverup before proceeding. For instance, raised or hypertrophic scars may require special techniques to ensure the tattoo sits smoothly over them.
Also, if your scars are significantly lighter or darker than your skin tone, it may affect the final appearance of the tattoo. By understanding your scar type, you can work with your tattoo artist to choose the best design and approach for covering it.
Related Article: Best Creative Ideas for a Tattoo Coverup?
Tattoo Design and Placement
If your scar has an irregular texture, consider small designs tattoos. Intricate or large designs can be more challenging to tattoo over scars with irregular textures. Additionally, the location of the scar can affect the design options.
For example, scars on joints or areas that experience a lot of movement may limit the size or placement of the tattoo. Discuss your design ideas with your tattoo artist to ensure they are feasible.
Pain Level
Scar tissue has undergone some changes compared to normal skin, so tattooing over it will be more painful. The tissue is more sensitive, and tattoo needles may cause more discomfort.
Still, the pain level can vary depending on the individual and the scar’s location. It’s essential to be prepared for potential discomfort and to communicate openly with your tattoo artist about your pain tolerance.
When you communicate, they can adjust their technique to minimize discomfort and make the experience as comfortable as possible.
Cost
The cost is another vital consideration to factor in before getting a tattoo over your scar.
What is the size of the design you want, its complexity, the tattoo artist’s experience, and the studio’s location? These and more constitute the cost of getting a tattoo over your scar.
Discuss the cost upfront with your Toronto tattoo artist and plan for it accordingly.
While you should consider cost and your budget, it’s more important to prioritize quality and choose a reputable artist with scar cover-up experience. Investing in a skilled artist can ensure you get the best possible result and minimize the risk of complications.
Aftercare
Proper aftercare is essential to the success of a tattoo cover-up over a scar. Scar tissue may heal differently than normal skin, so it’s important to follow your tattoo artist’s aftercare instructions.
This includes keeping the tattoo clean and moisturized, avoiding sun exposure, and avoiding activities that could irritate the scar or the tattoo. Following aftercare instructions will promote healing and reduce the risk of complications, ensuring your tattoo looks its best in the long run.
Potential Risks and Limitations
There are some risks and limitations to consider when getting a tattoo over a scar. Scar tissue may react differently to tattooing, leading to unpredictable results.
Additionally, scars and tattooed skin may change over time due to factors like aging or weight fluctuations, which could alter the appearance of the tattoo.
Discussing these risks with your tattoo artist and having realistic expectations about the outcome is important. While risks are involved, many people like you successfully cover scars with tattoos and are pleased with the results.
Related Article: How Long Does It Take for a Tattoo to Heal?
You Can Tattoo Over Scars with Piranha Tattoo Studio
All scars are not the same, and whether you wear yours with pride or not is nothing to be ashamed of. Getting tattoos over scars can transform how you feel about them.
The first thing to consider is to seek counsel from an experienced tattoo artist; they can lead you right.
Next, consider other factors like costs, aftercare, your pain threshold, and more before proceeding with a tattoo over your scar.
When you are ready to permanently cover your scars with tattoos, book an appointment with Piranha Tattoo Shop to discuss creative ideas for tattoos over scars with an experienced artist.
Whatever type of tattoo you get, we hope you’re happy with it, and you live your life to the fullest.