Tattoos and old age: Risks, precautions, and what to know

Skin changes, medications, and chronic health conditions can affect how tattoos heal and increase the risk of infection. It is important for older adults to consider these risks before getting a new tattoo.

People have been getting tattoos for thousands of years. They can be a great form of self-expression and pride, often still serving as symbols of cultural, religious, or spiritual commitment.

Today, tattoos are more popular and widely accepted throughout society.

However, there are practical considerations to make before getting a tattoo as an older adult, as there may be potential risks.

When planning a new tattoo, older adults should ensure their tattoo artist is responsible, observes strict safety guidelines, and stays informed of the latest scientific and health developments regarding hygiene and skin protection.

As tattoos become more popular, an increasing number of people may consider getting one or more in memory of loved ones, to celebrate loved ones, or to mark meaningful life events. Some may even get a tattoo solely for aesthetic reasons.

A 2023 study from the Pew Research Center showed that 32% of people in the United States have at least one tattoo, and a survey carried out by Statista Research Department showed 13% of people born between 1946 and 1964 (known as baby boomers) also have at least one tattoo.

However, the study from the Pew Research Center also found that among Americans without tattoos, 40% of individuals ages 65 and over report having a more negative impression of people they see who have tattoos. This was not the case for younger generations.

When a person gets a tattoo, the tattoo artist uses a handheld machine with a needle attached that punctures the skin. Every time the device punctures the skin, it simultaneously injects ink into the dermis, the second layer of skin.

While tattoos allow people to express themselves, they also cause skin damage, which may cause complications and side effects.

It is expected that individuals will experience some skin discoloration, warmth, and swelling when they get a tattoo, but some people may experience allergic reactions to tattoo inks.

Tattoo inks contain pigments that manufacturers mix with water, but, depending on the ink, they may also contain a variety of other components. The following table shows some of the colors and previously observed ingredients for each one:

Mercury, chromium, cadmium, and cobalt, in particular, have been known to cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to those ingredients.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any pigments for injection into the skin for cosmetic purposes.

Symptoms may not appear immediately and may take years to develop, but a rash at the tattoo site may indicate an infection.

Unhygienic practices and unsterile equipment can result in infections, but infections can also come from contaminated ink and nonsterile water being used to dilute the ingredients that add color, known as pigments.

There is currently no way of telling whether the ink is safe to use without testing it, so this relies on safe manufacturing practices.

The FDA has issued guidance aimed at helping tattoo ink manufacturers and distributors recognize how their products may become contaminated with microorganisms, which could cause people harm.

The guidance recommends specific steps that tattoo ink manufacturers and distributors should take to help prevent product contamination or to recognize and take action to sanitize potentially dangerous manufacturing and distribution conditions.

A person could develop granulomas, which are small bumps that can form around materials the body considers unfamiliar but cannot remove.

These reactions are chronic inflammatory responses in which the immune system forms.

These resemble lichen planus, a condition causing a rash of itchy, flat-topped bumps. The bumps can resemble graft-versus-host disease, where the immune system attacks the body’s tissues. They usually remain in the red areas of tattoos.

In rare cases, if a tattoo artist does not use sanitary needles in their machines, people may develop conditions like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, and tetanus.

Some people have reported experiencing a burning sensation in their tattoo during an MRI.

Anecdotal reports claim this is due to trace metals in the ink, although no scientific studies currently confirm this.

A photo-aggravated reaction involves swelling and discoloration in response to sunlight exposure.

This is usually due to yellow dyes that contain cadmium sulfide.

This is a common tattoo side effect that occurs in response to the needle puncturing the skin.

It usually causes swelling and discoloration that resolves within 2 to 3 weeks.

As of 2023, 93% of older adults ages 65 years and over reported having one or more chronic health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

When getting a tattoo, people should ensure their high blood pressure (hypertension) and blood sugar levels are well-managed to avoid improper healing and the risk of infection. If a person has diabetes, they should also avoid areas of the body that have reduced circulation for the same reason.

Between 1% and 5% of people experience tattoo-related bacterial infections. This can be potentially dangerous for people with chronic heart disease or who are susceptible to endocarditis.

People who take specific medications, such as blood thinners, may experience increased bleeding and bruising during and after their tattoo.

If a person has any concerns about whether getting a tattoo will affect their health, they should always seek advice from a doctor or another healthcare professional.

As a person ages, their skin becomes thinner and less elastic, which may mean longer healing times. However, older adults who are considering a tattoo can consider some key points to ensure the experience is as safe and enjoyable as possible.

Tattoo placement is important. While pain perception differs from person to person, some people consider areas closer to bones and with little fat to be the most painful places to get a tattoo. Choosing an area with more fatty tissue may provide extra cushioning, potentially making the experience less painful.

Additionally, choosing a place with firmer skin can help keep a tattoo looking fresher for longer.

A person should ensure that the tattoo artist they choose has all the necessary training and meets state health and safety requirements.

Once a license is approved, the artist should display it in their studio.

It is important for older adults considering a tattoo to first assess their health conditions and any medications they are taking.

Some health conditions can make healing more difficult, which can lead to infection. The same goes for medications, such as blood thinners.

Always discuss any health concerns with a doctor or other healthcare professional before getting a tattoo.

Those who decide it is right for them should ensure the artist is state-licensed and follows strict health and safety guidelines.