Tattoo or Not to…

Can your teen get Hepatitis C (i.e., HCV) by getting a tattoo?

In other countries, HCV infection has been associated with folk medicine practices, tattooing, body piercing, and commercial barbering. However, in the United States, case-control studies have reported no association between HCV infection and these types of practices. In addition, the CDC identified patients with acute Hepatitis C during the past 15 years who denied a history of injecting-drug use. Of these patients, only 1% reported a history of tattooing or ear piercing, and none reported a history of acupuncture. Among patients who were injecting-drug users, frequency of tattooing and ear piercing also was uncommon (3%).

Although any percutaneous exposure (i.e., penetration of the skin) has the potential for transferring infectious blood and potentially transmitting blood borne pathogens (i.e., HBV, HCV, or HIV), no data exist in the United States indicating that persons with exposures to tattooing alone are at increased risk of HCV infection. Further studies are needed to determine if these types of exposures and settings in which they occur (e.g., correctional institutions, unregulated commercial establishments), are risk factors for HCV infection in the United States.

Can you donate blood if you have a tattoo?

The Red Cross will not accept blood donations from someone who has been tattooed within the past twelve months.

Some things you should expect from a tattoo artist:

State law requires tattoo artists to be licensed. They should also be educated about how HIV is transmitted and take precautions to prevent transmission of HIV and other blood borne infections in their establishments. If you are considering getting a tattoo, ask the staff at the establishment what procedures they use to prevent the spread of HIV and other blood borne infections such as the Hepatitis B and C viruses. In addition, ask the tattoo artist if s/he uses antiseptic techniques, keeps permanent individual records, and uses sterile tools and equipment because those items are required under state law. Above all, make sure the tattoo artist uses fresh, sterile needles for each color and/or design.

Can tattoos be removed?

There are several methods available for tattoo removal, but always consult a physician, surgeon or dermatologist first. Successful removal depends upon a variety of factors including the type of ink, depth of ink, intensity of color, and the age of the tattoo. Never attempt to remove a tattoo yourself!