Locations:
Search IconSearch

I Have Diabetes. Can I Get a Tattoo?

Body art and managing tattoo risks

woman with tattoos on arm

All tattoos​ tell a story, whether it be something incredibly meaningful or just a spur-of-the-moment decision you had on a random Tuesday. ​​

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

When you make that decision to get inked, you may not think about the medical risks right away. But if you have diabetes, getting a tattoo may pose unique risks.

“When you have diabetes, you really have to consider the physical consequences of everything you do,” says endocrinologist Shirisha Avadhanula, MD.

How does my blood sugar affect risks associated with tattoos?

To get a tattoo, the skin is pierced between 50 and 3,000 times a minute by a tattoo machine.

“Your skin is a barrier that protects you from infections,” says Dr. Avadhanula. “Getting a tattoo breaks this barrier. A tattoo affects the dermis, or the second layer of skin, because the cells of the dermis are more stable than the first layer, or epidermis.”

Piercing skin at this level poses unique risks to people with diabetes. If your blood sugars are not in good control, your immune system is also affected — putting you at even higher risk for infection and potential difficulty fighting it off. If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you may have a significantly increased risk of developing an infection, too.

Tattooing is under strict hygiene rules from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because of this risk of infection. The needles must only be used once and the tattoo artist must wear gloves while doing the work. According to the FDA, among the most severe infections that can be transmitted is hepatitis.

Advertisement

If you have considered the risk, and still want to get a tattoo, remember to do the following:

  • Talk to your doctor first. It’s important to discuss your particular case with your doctor so they can assess your individual risk. Involving your doctor is even more important as the American Diabetes Association, which would normally offer guidance, has issued no official position statement at this time about tattoos.
  • Make sure your blood sugar is in good control. This means blood glucose tests and hemoglobin A1C, or an index of average blood glucose for the previous three to four months, need to be in the target range. Your hemoglobin A1C should be less than 7%.
  • Get your tattoo in a place that isn’t susceptible to infection. Feet, shins, ankles and butt are places that can have poor blood circulation, which in turn can make them more susceptible to infection.
  • Make sure you are going to a reputable place. Sometimes it’s not so clear which places are truly reputable and licensed, especially when there are thousands to choose from in the United States alone. You can find a good place by asking for references and checking with the Better Business Bureau for any complaints filed. Don’t be afraid to give them a call and ask questions about their equipment and sanitation practices.

“By taking the right precautions, you can be sure that you are making an informed decision about tattoos and risks involved when you have diabetes,” she says. “Taking the time to involve your doctor could prevent future problems. Body art is beautiful, but a healthy body is even more beautiful.”​

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Oversized medical chart, glucose meter, pill bottle, with a normal-sized healthcare provider giving thumbs up
August 14, 2024/Heart Health
What’s the Connection Between Statins and Diabetes?

Some statins have been shown to slightly increase your risk of diabetes — but that shouldn’t keep you from taking the medication you need

Person holding medical injector pen
July 10, 2024/Weight Loss
Ozempic for Weight Loss: Who Should Try It and Will It Work?

This diabetes medication can treat obesity, but it’s not for people who just want to drop a few pounds

Gloved hands using a tattoo iron to apply a tattoo
May 7, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
Tattoo Aftercare Tips From a Dermatologist

Help your ink heal by keeping it moisturized and protected from the sun

Variety of cereals in different bowls
Here’s What To Know About Choosing Cereal if You Have Diabetes

There are better breakfast options, but if it’s got to be cereal, look for whole grains, high fiber and no added sugar

Hand holding glucose measurement device, with bottle of water in background at night
Are Religious Fasts Safe for People With Diabetes?

Planning ahead, checking in with your care team and being vigilant about blood sugar monitoring can help ensure a safe fast

healthcare provider writing in notes, with glucometer, blood droplet, medicine and approved foods floating near
How Stress and Depression Affect Diabetes

A diabetes diagnosis, new or long-standing, can trigger reactions like grief, stress, depression and frustration, but symptom relief and help are available

Person testing their blood sugar with their home kit
February 29, 2024/Diabetes & Endocrinology
Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes: What’s the Difference?

Type 1 diabetes happens when your body doesn’t make insulin, while Type 2 happens when your body can’t use insulin properly

female healthcare provider speaking with patient in medical setting
January 11, 2024/Diabetes & Endocrinology
Can Too Much Sugar Cause Diabetes?

There is an indirect link between the sweet substance and the condition

Trending Topics

Female and friend jogging outside
How To Increase Your Metabolism for Weight Loss

Focus on your body’s metabolic set point by eating healthy foods, making exercise a part of your routine and reducing stress

stovetop with stainless steel cookware and glassware
5 Ways Forever Chemicals (PFAS) May Affect Your Health

PFAS chemicals may make life easier — but they aren’t always so easy on the human body

jar of rice water and brush, with rice scattered around table
Could Rice Water Be the Secret To Healthier Hair?

While there’s little risk in trying this hair care treatment, there isn’t much science to back up the claims

Ad