Weight Changes and Tattoos

Lexington Tattoo Removal • July 22, 2024

Losing or gaining significant amounts of weight can change the structure and appearance of your tattoo. If your weight has fluctuated and you no longer love the look of your beloved tattoo, contact Lexington Tattoo Removal. We can help you decide whether you want to remove the tattoo or reduce its appearance so you can create something new.

Someone getting laser tattoo removal for a tattoo on their back at Lexington Tattoo Removal near Lexington, Kentucky (KY)

What Happens to a Tattoo When You Gain Weight?

When you gain weight, your tattoo can change, depending on how much you gain, the size of the tattoo, and where it's located. If, for instance, you have a tattoo around your waistline and you get pregnant, your tattoo will be affected. If the tattoo is on your hand or arm, it won't be. Similarly, if you gain less than 10 pounds, your tattoo will unlikely fluctuate too greatly. If you gain 40 pounds or more, your tattoo will change as your skin does. This is especially true if the weight gain is rapid.

You may notice the tattoo stretching and becoming larger, colors fading, and lines becoming less crisp. Larger tattoos will also stretch more than smaller ones. Depending on how it looks, you could choose to touch it up or get it removed.

If you are planning to gain weight, like you're actively trying to get pregnant, and you want a tattoo, consider placing it somewhere that won't be affected or wait to get it.

What Happens to a Tattoo When You Lose Weight?

Like with weight gain, a small amount of weight loss won't noticeably affect the appearance of your tattoo. However, if you lose 40 or more pounds, there will be some changes, especially if you lose it swiftly. The skin may sag, get papery and thin, and shift. Anything that affects your skin will affect your tattoo. If you're losing weight, you might notice:

  • Faded colors
  • Faded lines
  • Placement changes
  • A wrinkled appearance

Laser Tattoo Removal After Weight Changes

If you no longer like the look of the tattoo you once loved after you've lost or gained weight, you can have it removed with laser tattoo removal. At Lexington Tattoo Removal, our certified specialists take pictures to track the progress so you can see the changes. Laser tattoo removal can help by:

  • Removing the tattoo completely
  • Reducing the color and lines is enough to change it or get something new in that location.

Contact Us for Laser Tattoo Removal

You may have been told that a tattoo is forever. Modern technology allows you to remove tattoos that no longer look right or don’t make you feel good. At Lexington Tattoo Removal, you can schedule a consultation to discuss how long it will take to remove the tattoo and how to care for your skin before and after each session. We also offer microblading removal and laser hair removal.

Located in Lexington, KY, we proudly serve the greater Lexington area and the surrounding states, including Louisville, KY; Cincinnati, OH; Nashville, TN; and Huntington, WV. To get started with a free consultation, visit our location, inform us using our online contact form, or call. Our staff will happily work with you to answer any questions. Contact us today!

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