Is it Safe To Get A Tattoo While Using Accutane?

Answer

It is generally recommended to avoid invasive skin procedures, such as getting a tattoo, laser hair removal, and dermal abrasions, for at least 6 to 12 months after stopping Accutane (isotretinoin).

There is, unfortunately, a lack of published information on this topic but we do know isotretinoin causes the skin to become more fragile. It is thought to impair wound healing, which could increase the risk of scarring.

Since the process of getting a tattoo is essentially creating a wound to the skin, there is concern that the tattoo may not heal appropriately, or take longer to heal.

One case study, published in the International Journal of Dermatology, reported the following on the matter:

"Our case illustrates that oral isotretinoin could impair wound healing after tattooing. The tattoo was quite small, but one can wonder about the outcomes if the tattoo had been larger."

There is some controversy on this subject however and the results reported in this particular case study are far from definitive or applicable to everyone.

A large review study, published in JAMA Dermatology, found very limited evidence that isotretinoin impaired wound healing to a significant degree after reviewing over 1,400 skin procedures in those exposed to the drug.

Nevertheless, we may want to follow the old adage of 'better safe than sorry' here.

You want your tattoo to look its best on your skin and it would be prudent to avoid anything that may impair how your skin heals after the procedure. 

About Accutane

Accutane contains isotretinoin, a vitamin A derivative. It is known as a 'retinoid'.

It works to treat acne via a variety of mechanisms, but overall, it decreases sebum production and reduces the formation of comedones and acne lesions.

Due to the serious risk of birth defects, it can only be obtained after being enrolled in the iPledge program.

It is available under a number of names, including:

• Accutane
• Myorisan
• Absorica
• Amnesteem
• Claravis
• Sotret
• Zenatane

Final Words

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