Can I get a tattoo if… I am taking Accutane?
Its recently come to our attention that there is a possibility of interaction between getting a tattoo and taking the prescription medication Accutane.
Can You Get a Tattoo While Taking Accutane?
If you're undergoing treatment with Accutane (isotretinoin) for severe acne, you may be wondering whether it's safe to get a tattoo during or shortly after your course. While tattoos are an exciting form of self-expression, it's essential to understand how this powerful medication affects your skin - and why most professionals strongly advise waiting.
What Is Accutane (Isotretinoin)?
Accutane is a prescription-only medication widely used in the UK and globally to treat severe, cystic, or treatment-resistant acne. It's a derivative of vitamin A and works by shrinking the oil glands in the skin, reducing sebum production, and helping to prevent breakouts.
However, isotretinoin also causes:
Skin thinning
Dryness and irritation
Slower wound healing
Increased sensitivity to trauma
📚 According to the NHS, common side effects of isotretinoin include dry skin, fragile skin, and delayed healing (NHS, 2023).
Risks of Getting a Tattoo While Taking Accutane
Getting a tattoo while your skin is under the influence of Accutane can lead to several complications. Tattooing involves puncturing the skin to deposit ink in the dermis - a process that requires healthy, resilient skin.
Main Risks Include:
🕒 Delayed Healing: Isotretinoin reduces the skin’s healing capacity, which can result in infections and longer recovery times
⚠️ Fragile Skin: Thinner, more delicate skin is more prone to tearing or trauma during tattooing.
💢 Scarring and Keloid Formation: Healing complications increase the risk of raised or abnormal scarring (British Association of Dermatologists).
🎨 Ink Rejection or Uneven Results: Poor healing may cause the tattoo to appear faded, patchy or distorted.
How Long Should You Wait to Get a Tattoo After Accutane?
To protect your skin and ensure the best outcome for your tattoo, dermatologists generally recommend a waiting period of at least 6 months after finishing a course of isotretinoin. In some cases, a longer wait of up to 12 months may be advised-particularly if your dosage was high or you experienced severe side effects.
💬 The American Academy of Dermatology and several dermatology clinics advise waiting 6-12 months post-treatment before undergoing cosmetic procedures, including tattooing or waxing (AAD, 2020).
Suggested Waiting Times:
✅ Minimum Wait Time: 6 months after completing treatment
🔍 Ideal Wait Time: 6-12 months depending on dosage and skin recovery
👩⚕️ Consult a Professional: Always speak with your dermatologist before proceeding
Low Dose Accutane and Tattoos: Is It Safer?
While some patients are prescribed low-dose isotretinoin, there is no established threshold under which tattooing is considered risk-free. Even low doses can impact healing and skin sensitivity. Therefore, it's best to speak to your dermatologist before making any decisions.
Final Thoughts: Should You Wait to Get a Tattoo After Accutane?
Although it might feel disappointing to delay a planned tattoo, your skin’s long-term health is more important. Tattooing too soon after or during Accutane treatment can lead to permanent damage, infections, and poor tattoo quality.
By waiting 6–12 months, you give your skin time to rebuild its natural defences, ensuring a smooth healing process and better-looking tattoo results.
Helpful Tip Before Booking:
✔️ Talk to your dermatologist and an experienced tattoo artist. They can assess your skin’s condition and recommend the safest timeline for your tattoo.