Question:
Tattoo over scars ???

Quite a long while back there was some discussion about tattooing over scars. Since then has anybody actually had it done? If so, how long did you wait before tattooing over the scar and how well did it work? I'd love to hear what others experiences were with this.    — Shelly S. (posted on January 8, 2003)

January 8, 2003
My tattoo guy said that he won't do it because they simply do not take as permanently as on regular skin. i wanted to cover a scar on my ankle.
   — Carol S.

January 8, 2003
I did not go to a tatoo artist. I went to a cosmetic surgeon. They also do tatooing over stars (especially facial scars). Anyway, mine are on my legs and I've always hated them. They told me that upon viewing them that they were already very nicely blended. Flat & white. They said they could try to tatoo them a darker color, but sometimes it does not turn out well on very light skin such as mine and it may become more noticeable. They told me right out they thought I should not do it. However, it IS for some people. I suggest looking up a cosmetic surgeon and doing a free consultation.
   — Jen D.

January 8, 2003
I'm unclear as to what you mean by tattooing over scars...do you want to do this to make it less noticeable, or are you looking to put some artwork with color over it? I can't answer as to the cosmetic kind. But I can tell you this. My husband and I both have tattoos over scars. Mine is a scar on my ankle, a small one, and I didn't do it to cover it, it just happened to be where I wanted my tattoo to go. I've had it redone in that area once already. Luckily, my tattoo artist is also my friend, so whenever I'll need it, he'll do it for free. This could get expensive if you have to pay every time. It all really depends on lots of factors. There all all kinds of tattoo inks, and all colors take/stay differently. My best advice is to pick another spot and save yourself the worry and the possibility of future touch ups.
   — Monica H.

January 8, 2003
Yes, I was referring to decorative tattooing to make your scar more attractive. I have a huge scar from my tummy tuck that goes hip to hip and around my back at my waist and was thinking of doing a tattoo over and around it in a sort of vining leafy pattern, maybe with some small flowers. Its not that my scar is horrible looking, in fact for a scar its great. I was just considering this from the thread of discussion that had happened quite a long time ago. I wasn't aware that the ink doesn't stay as permanently on a scar. (this would be my first tattoo actually). And I would have to pay each and every time to touch it up, which I'm sure would be a hefty amount considering the size of the area we're talking about. Does anyone know why it fades in scar tissue?? And if there are any inks that would work permanently in them?? Still curious.
   — Shelly S.

January 12, 2003
Shelly- call a tatto shop or go visit one- they will give you the best information
   — ~~Stacie~~