cure4lupus's Journal

One of the most common questions we receive is inquiring whether it is "ok" for people with Lupus to get a tattoo.

The Lupus Foundation of America has this to say about the subject:

"There are no specific problems that have been associated with tattoos in lupus patients. Keep in mind the small risk of infection with hepatitis B and C. Occasionally lupus patients have been known to have a reaction to the tattoo dye but this is very rare. Remember, if you are on immunosuppressive medication, this may increase the chances of infection and slow healing of the tattoo area. As with other procedures, it is best done when you are in remission or a welled controlled mild disease state. Consult with your physician prior to getting your tattoo."

Also, if you are on blood thinners you may not be able to sit for long sessions. The longer someone is being tattooed, the more the skin is irritated and the more they bleed, pushing the pigment back out in spots. This does not apply to small tattoos (under 1 hour) or to black and gray tattoos.

Kendra has thought about getting a tattoo for many years but was afraid of the pain and healing time. For her 30th birthday in January 2008 she decided to go for it. She wanted to get a tattoo that represented her passion and work for the Lupus Awareness Cause so she chose a purple butterfly carrying a purple ribbon. To add dimension a second color was added to the butterfly. A blueish teal was chosen in honor of Kendra's sister who has Scleroderma.

Kendra having Lupus and Fibromyalgia was nervous about the pain, however found the entire process to be only slightly painful, perhaps comparable to a shallow sting. Kendra is also on immunosuppressives and was very diligent about aftercare. The tattoo healed up perfectly with no infection or complication within 1 week. Since getting the tattoo, we have gotten several compliments and even a few very flattering copies. Email us pictures of your Lupus tattoo to webmaster@cure4lupus.org. View Kendra's tattoo here: http://cure4lupus.org/information/lupus_&_tattoos.htm