A scar is a mark that is left on the skin after a wound or an injury to the surface of the skin. Tattooing may or may not be a great option for hiding or covering scars. The best way to decide whether tattooing over a scar is the best option for you is through a tattoo consultation with a professional tattoo artist. There are a few factors when determining if a tattoo over a scar is the best plan of action for the results you want to achieve.
Time- scars take time to heal. It is never advised to tattoo over a fresh scar. Depending on the severity of the scar, it may take anywhere from six months to a year or more to fully heal.
Goals- options will vary depending on the goals you have for the tattoo. In some cases, it may be possible to completely conceal the scar with a thoroughly planned custom tattoo; in other cases, the best hopes may be to simply minimize the appearance of the scar with a well-placed tattoo. Unfortunately, sometimes tattooing over the scar may not be a viable option.
Body placement- skin varies in different areas of the body; while some areas of the body have thicker skin, other areas have thinner skin. The location of the scar will be a determining factor in whether a tattoo is the best decision for you.
Characteristics of the scar- assessing the scar includes the size, depth, color, texture and other elements that will determine whether tattooing the scar is the best option for you.
Patience- tattooing over a scar will require more patience than a regular tattoo. An open mind about the design will help facilitate the best custom tattoo to meet your goals.