It’s an amazing feeling when you finally achieve the body of your dreams! However, the changes in your body shape can alter the location, appearance, and shape of your tattoos after weight loss. So, should you wait to get a tattoo after you’ve lost those stubborn pounds or should you just go for it? Constantly going back and forth on this topic can only make you feel more confused. But don’t worry. We’re here to help! Read this article to find out exactly what happens when you lose weight, how to minimize tattoo distortion, and the best places to get a tattoo when you lose weight. Scroll down to learn more about maintaining and preserving your body art!
What happens to tattoos when you lose weight?
Image: Shutterstock
One of the biggest changes you may experience after losing those pounds is the size, location, and complexity of the tattoo design. For example, if you have a tattoo on your thigh, you may notice that the tattoo shifts to the front or back of the thigh after extreme weight loss. Similarly, a tattoo on a smaller area of your thigh may appear larger or take up more space after drastic weight loss. This is due to the decrease in thigh size, making it appear as if it covers a larger area than before.
Flashy stripes or stubborn stretch marks on your skin are another effect of losing weight. The shrinking skin can break the ink particles, distort the ink design or change the position of your tattoo. Similarly, gaining weight can also lead to tattoo deformation.
Laura, a blogger, shared how weight changes changed the way her tattoo looked on her body. She wrote: “Since then my body has changed, gained weight, lost weight (honestly gained more weight), stretched out and the tattoos still look beautiful on me (i).”
Losing those extra pounds will definitely affect the way your tattoo looks. So, should you wait until you’ve lost weight to get a tattoo? Find out in the next section.
Should you wait until you lose weight before getting a tattoo?
Image: Shutterstock
This completely depends on your weight loss goals and preferences. If you want to hit the gym and lose a ton of weight or are planning on getting surgery, you can wait until you’ve lost the weight you want to get a tattoo. However, if you really want that body art, you can do it before you lose those pounds. However, keep in mind that your fitness goals will definitely affect the end result, so think carefully before making a decision.
Any changes during weight loss can affect the appearance of your tattoo. But don’t worry. Check out some simple tips below to reduce the effects of tattoo deformity after weight loss.
How to Minimize the Impact of Weight Loss on Your Tattoos
One of the most effective ways to minimize tattoo disfigurement is to keep your skin hydrated. Hydration can prevent dryness, reduce itching, and improve the overall health of your skin and the appearance of your tattoo after weight loss. It also keeps your skin soft and supple. Moisturizers containing coconut oil or shea butter can provide intense hydration, restore the skin barrier, and promote wound healing (1), (2).
You may also consider covering up a tattoo or modifying the existing design to blend in smoothly with your changing skin. Tattoo touch-ups are another way to freshen up and brighten up your current tattoo without changing the actual design.
Pro tip
Avoid using an alcohol-based moisturizer to reduce the risk of skin irritation and dryness.
So if you are planning to shed some extra pounds and still want to get a tattoo, these are the best places to get a tattoo.
Best Places on the Body to Get a Tattoo When Losing Weight
Image: Shutterstock
Here are some of the best tattoo places you can go to if you are planning to lose weight:
Upper arms
These body parts require a lot of movement and are less prone to stretching or shrinking. They are also the best place to hide arm tattoos.
Forearms
This area may change slightly in size, but it is a relatively stable area, making it perfect for beautiful wrist tattoos.
Upper back
The area around the spine is less sensitive to major changes in size and weight.
Torso
The relatively flat surface makes tattoos easier to apply and reduces the chance of tattoo deformation due to extreme weight fluctuations.
Pro tip
Include strength training or muscle-toning exercises in your weight loss program to reduce the chance of your tattoo becoming distorted.
Lower legs
Areas such as the calves are generally considered stable and are suitable for lower leg tattoos.
Significant body changes and skin tightening can affect the location and size of your tattoos after weight loss. Whether you want to get a tattoo before or after weight loss is a personal choice. However, if you decide to lose weight and also get a tattoo, choose areas such as the upper arms or back to reduce the risk of tattoo distortion. However, if you notice significant tattoo distortion after weight loss, visit a professional tattoo artist to see if you need to alter the designs or not. Therefore, research the process thoroughly and seek expert advice to help you make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can weight loss surgery scars affect tattoos?
Scars from weight loss surgery have a different texture and are more sensitive to pain than unbroken skin. Therefore, tattooing over scar tissue or healing skin can increase the risk of infection and potential complications. Therefore, consult a dermatologist and a tattoo artist experienced in working with scars before getting tattooed.
Can I get a tattoo if I have loose skin after losing weight?
Yes, you can get a tattoo on loose skin after weight loss. However, it can be tricky because the design can stretch over the skin and distort it further. Also, the ink may not adhere well to loose skin. Therefore, consult an experienced tattoo artist for proper guidance on the right place to get your tattoo.
Is tattooing more painful on areas with loose skin?
This depends on the individual’s pain threshold, the location of the tattoo, the type of tattoo, and the skin type. However, an individual with loose skin who has already undergone a tattooing process or weight loss surgery may be more sensitive to pain. Therefore, think twice and consult an expert before getting a tattoo.
Can Tattoos Help Hide Stretch Marks Caused By Weight Loss?
Tattoos are a great way to hide stretch marks. By strategically placing your design, along with the right colors, you can reduce the appearance of stretch marks caused by weight loss.
Will weight loss affect the healing time of my tattoo?
Weight loss may not directly affect the healing time of the tattoo. However, factors such as the general health of the individual, the health of the skin, and adherence to aftercare practices will determine the healing process.
Key Points
Rapid and significant weight loss can change the size, appearance, and location of tattoos. Areas such as the torso, forearms, and lower legs are less susceptible to stretching and are ideal for tattoos after weight loss. Touch-ups, cover-ups, or other body modification processes can help improve the appearance and vibrancy of tattoos after weight loss.
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
Rapid weight gain or loss can cause a noticeable shift in the location of your tattoo. Watch this informative video to learn how weight fluctuations affect the vibrancy and quality of your tattoo.
Personal experience: Source
Was this article helpful? 
ReviewerAuthorEditorFact Check
Brik Rangel is a highly skilled tattoo artist with 12 years of experience in the field. She specializes in transformative tattoo makeovers and cover-ups. After honing her craft in São Paulo, Brazil, she now works as a tattoo artist and manager at Manhattan Tattoos in New York and as a tattoo artist at Divine Tattoos in New Jersey.
Read Brik Rangel’s full biography
Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience in creating short-form content for the beauty, fashion and lifestyle niches. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science and Geography from IIS University and a Master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.
Read Joyce Joyson’s full biography
Eshna is an associate editor and certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple major bachelor’s degree in psychology, English and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.
Read the full biography of Eshna Das
Aparna Harry is a beauty and lifestyle content writer with over three years of experience writing for various genres. She holds a Masters degree in English Literature from English And Foreign Languages University and a Bachelors degree in Education from University of Mysore.
Read the full biography of Aparna Harry
Leave a Reply