Tattooing is personal. It’s an art form, a statement, a form of therapy and self-care, and for many, a part of their identity. But for someone living with diabetes, there are unique considerations that both the client and the artist need to understand before a needle touches skin.
The information below comes directly from trusted sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Mayo Clinic, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Diabetes Association (ADA).
Understanding diabetes
For everyone’s awareness:
Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body has trouble regulating blood sugar (glucose). This happens because the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin, can’t use insulin effectively, or both. Over time, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels, nerves, and vital organs.
Main types:
- Type 1 diabetes – autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells; requires insulin therapy.
- Type 2 diabetes – insulin resistance and often related to lifestyle factors and genetics; the most common type.
- Gestational diabetes – develops during pregnancy and can raise the risk of Type 2 later.
Why tattoos require extra consideration in diabetes
Both artists and clients need to be aware of how diabetes affects tattooing and healing:
- Slower healing
High blood sugar can slow tissue repair. For tattoos, this means the skin stays vulnerable longer, raising the risk of infection and scarring. - Higher infection risk
The immune system can be less effective when blood sugar is high. Infection is one of the most serious risks in tattooing – and can be more severe in people with diabetes. - Reduced circulation
Diabetes can lead to peripheral artery disease, especially in the lower legs and feet, making those areas more prone to healing problems. - Neuropathy (nerve damage)
Some clients may have reduced sensation in their extremities, making it harder to detect pain, infection, or other early signs of trouble. - Device and injection sites
Tattooing over insulin pump sites, continuous glucose monitor (CGM) locations, or areas of repeated injections can interfere with devices and healing.
When tattooing should be delayed or avoided
Artists: be cautious and discuss these red flags openly with your client.
Clients: be honest with your artist about your health so you can make the safest decision.
Avoid tattooing if:
- Blood sugar is poorly controlled
- There’s an active wound, ulcer, or skin infection
- The desired tattoo site has poor circulation or neuropathy (especially feet, ankles, shins)
- There’s a history of keloid scarring, infections, or other health issues
- You’re pregnant or have a compromised immune system
Site selection and planning
- Better options: upper arms, shoulders, back, chest, thighs (assuming healthy skin and good circulation)
- Avoid: feet, ankles, shins, areas of past ulceration or poor healing, device/injection sites. Be careful going below the waist – having physician approval is the safest bet.
- Long sessions: break them into shorter appointments to reduce stress on the body and allow for blood sugar checks
Pre-tattoo checklist
For clients:
- Talk to your healthcare provider before booking. Share your recent A1C and any history of skin problems.
- Keep blood sugar well-controlled leading up to your appointment.
- Eat normally and bring your glucose meter, snacks, and medication to the appointment.
For artists:
- Ask about your client’s diabetes management and healing history (confidentially and respectfully).
- Confirm there are no active wounds, infections, or high-risk sites.
- Maintain the highest hygiene standards – single-use needles, sterile inks, sterile water, and a spotless environment.
Aftercare – Everyone’s Responsibility
Healing starts the moment the tattoo is done, and with diabetes, aftercare is critical.
Clients:
- Follow aftercare instructions exactly — keep the area clean and protected.
- Monitor your blood sugar closely.
- Avoid soaking the tattoo until it’s fully healed.
- Seek medical help immediately if you notice redness, swelling, pus, or fever.
Artists:
- Provide clear, written aftercare instructions and stress the importance of early reporting if complications arise.
- Check in with your client during the healing period if possible.
The takeaway
Diabetes doesn’t automatically rule out tattooing. But it does mean both the artist and client have a shared responsibility to plan carefully, choose the safest approach, and prioritise health at every stage.
A successful tattoo in someone with diabetes starts with good communication, proper site selection, meticulous hygiene, and a commitment to aftercare. When both sides understand the risks and take them seriously, the outcome can be safe, beautiful, and meaningful.
Your health always comes first. When in doubt, speak with your doctor before booking.
Sources:
- World Health Organization – Diabetes
- Mayo Clinic – Diabetes overview; Tattoos: Understand risks and precautions
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Tattoo-associated infections
- American Diabetes Association – Skin complications and diabetes
- Cleveland Clinic – I Have Diabetes. Can I Get a Tattoo?
Researched and written by
Kate Connors
Professional Tattoo Artist | Skin Safety Educator | Advocate for Safe Tattoo Practices
Kate Connors is a seasoned tattoo artist with over 20 years of experience specializing in creating custom artwork that celebrates individuality while prioritizing client safety. As the co-owner of Studio68 Inc. Kate Connors is dedicated to elevating industry standards by promoting education on safe tattooing practices, including the importance of skin health.
With a passion for continuous learning, Kate Connors actively researches and collaborates with professionals to ensure the highest level of care for clients. Recognized for her attention to detail and commitment to client well-being, Kate Connors has become an advocate for educating both the public and fellow artists.
Whether in the studio or the classroom, Kate Connors combines artistic expertise with a mission to inform, inspire, and protect the tattoo community.
