Before you start throwing hate at me, let me reassure you: people with diabetes can get a tattoo.

With that said, everyone, diabetic or not, is urged to do their homework before impulsively hitting a tattoo parlor. After all, the process is extremely painful (figures), and the last thing you want is to suffer from health issues after getting mark.

When?

Uncontrolled diabetes can hinder the healing process, increase the chances of infection, and lead to the worst-case scenario—amputation. Hence, if your A1C levels tend to be higher than 7%, fasting blood sugar outside the range of 4.0-7.0 mmol/L, and postprandial blood sugar outside the range of 5.0-10.0 mmol/L, it’s a good idea to postpone your rendezvous to the tattoo parlor until your glycemia is settled.

Where?

For people with diabetes, there are parts of the body where tattoos are not recommended. These areas include the ankles, feet, buttocks, and shins due to the poor circulation and insulin injection sites. Since the healing process may be delayed and the risk of infection is higher in these areas, it is best to stay clear from them.

The Prep

• Notify your family physician about your plans. It is possible to get vaccinated against hepatitis B; however, vaccine is unavailable for AIDS or hepatitis C.
• Choose an accredited, trustworthy, clean, and good reputation tattoo parlor (duh!). For extra precaution, you can visit the place and drill them. Take a peek at the artists to make sure they are using new or sterilized needles, gloves, fresh ink, and wash their hands before jumping into action.
• Prepare a snack (the inking process can be long!)
• Follow the artist’s instruction after the inking.