Stretch marks can greatly affect tattoos. Whether you are hoping to cover stretch marks with a tattoo, or are worried about gaining stretch marks through an existing tattoo, the results are varied for everyone. Outcomes in these situations largely depend on the skin type, size of stretch marks and the ability of the tattoo artist.
Covering Stretchmarks
Often people will seek to cover stretchmarks, finding the skin imperfections embarrassing. Many creams and non-surgical procedures claiming to reduce the appearance of stretchmarks are available, while often tanning and makeup are sought out as temporary solutions.
When people are looking for a more permanent and affordable means to cover stretchmarks, some lean towards tattoos. But since stretch marks don't react to being tattooed the same way general skin surfaces do, this is not always the right solution.
The Risks
According to Mayo Clinic, stretch marks can be different colors and sizes. If stretch marks are light colored, with little variation from normal skin texture, the ability to tattoo over them would be greater than if the stretch marks were larger and deep. Ink may look and spread differently in the area of a larger stretch mark which can result an inconsistent looking tattoo.
In all cases, a veteran tattoo artist would be able to assess the situation and let you know what is possible. If an artist says they are capable of tattooing over stretch marks, it might be an idea to ask to see pictures of healed tattoos they have done specifically over stretch marks. They may also tell you that the results can be unpredictable, and you should not expect a tattoo that's over stretch marks to look the same as any other tattoo.
Stretchmark-Prone Areas
In most cases tattoo artists will ask you to avoid being tattooed where you may get stretch marks in the future. For example, avoid the stomach area if you are planning on getting pregnant. According to Renaissance Studio, a tattoo shop in British Columbia, Canada, stretch marks are sure to affect existing tattoos and they ask you to consider the placement of your tattoo to avoid any problems.
Common areas for stretch marks are the abdomen, lower back, arms, breasts and thighs. Generally adults don't gain additional stretchmarks unless they experience pregnancy, extreme weight or muscle gain, use particular medications such as corticosteroid creams or have a disease, such as Cushing's.syndrome.
Your Existing Tattoo
Since stretch marks are unpredictable, it's hard to determine how exactly they will affect your existing tattoo. In some cases, stretch marks running through a tattoo can break the alignment of the tattoo, causing the image to look distorted. If you have stretch marks that have distorted an existing tattoo, you can always look into the possibility of touch ups or a cover up tattoo to help correct the image.
Waiting it Out
Mayo Clinic also suggests that stretch marks fade over time. It might be wise to wait a while if your stretch marks are newer to see if covering them up is as necessary down the road.
