Tattooing with Eczema or Psoriasis — Aftercare for Sensitive and Reactive Skin

People with eczema or psoriasis can and do get tattooed — but the aftercare product choice matters more for reactive skin than for any other skin type. Fragrances, preservatives, and occlusive bases are the most common triggers for flares on healing skin. A minimal, fragrance-free, alcohol-free cream that absorbs into the skin rather than forming a surface barrier is the appropriate choice. Consult your dermatologist before tattooing if your condition is currently active.

Ink Nurse Remedy Cream is 100% fragrance-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free, and Australian made. Available in 100ml and 500ml pump. Endorsed by the Australian Tattooists Guild.

Why eczema and psoriasis skin needs a different approach

Both eczema (atopic dermatitis) and psoriasis involve a compromised or overactive skin barrier. Tattooing creates a wound in already-sensitive skin, which can trigger a localised flare in the healing area, and in some cases a systemic response. The healing environment — including the aftercare product applied 2–3x daily for 4 weeks — has a direct impact on whether the skin settles or flares.

What to look for in an aftercare product for reactive skin

• Fragrance-free — fragrance is the most common contact allergen in skincare. ‘Unscented’ is not the same as fragrance-free; look for the explicit claim
• Alcohol-free — alcohol strips the skin barrier and increases trans-epidermal water loss, worsening both eczema and healing skin
• No lanolin — lanolin allergy is more prevalent in people with eczema
• Non-occlusive — heavy occlusive creams can trap heat and bacteria, increasing flare risk on reactive skin
• Minimal ingredient list — fewer ingredients means fewer potential triggers

Before you get tattooed — what to consider

• Avoid tattooing over active eczema or psoriasis plaques — the skin trauma can worsen the flare
• Speak to your dermatologist if you are on systemic immunosuppressants or biologics — these can affect healing
• Choose a placement away from your most reactive areas where possible
• Patch test your aftercare product on a small area of skin 48 hours before your session

Washing sensitive tattooed skin

Use the most minimal, fragrance-free wash available. Foam Nurse Tattoo Soap Wash is formulated for sensitive and healing skin — fragrance-free, with a gentle, pH-appropriate formula.

Best for / Not ideal for

Ink Nurse Remedy Cream is best for: sensitive, eczema-prone, and reactive skin types during tattoo healing. Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free.

Not a substitute for: dermatological advice. If you have active eczema or psoriasis, consult your dermatologist before getting tattooed and before starting any new topical product.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a tattoo if I have eczema?
Many people with eczema are tattooed without significant complications. The key factors are: the condition must not be active at the tattoo site, you should choose a placement that avoids your most reactive areas, and you should use appropriate aftercare. Consult your dermatologist first.

My eczema flared on my healing tattoo. What should I do?
Stop using any product you introduced recently and revert to the most minimal fragrance-free cream available. If the flare is significant — weeping, spreading, or extremely inflamed — see your dermatologist or GP. Do not apply prescription topical steroids to a healing tattoo without medical advice, as they can affect healing.

Can I use my regular eczema cream on my tattoo?
Depends on the formulation. If it is fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and not a prescription corticosteroid, it may be appropriate. Prescription topical steroids should not be applied to a healing tattoo without medical advice. Check the ingredient list against the guidance above.

Will the tattoo ink trigger my psoriasis?
Tattoo trauma can trigger the Koebner phenomenon in psoriasis — where new plaques form at the site of skin injury. This is a known risk. Discuss with your dermatologist before proceeding.

How is Ink Nurse Remedy Cream different from a standard pharmacy moisturiser?
Ink Nurse Remedy Cream was formulated for use on healing tattooed skin, which has a compromised barrier similar to eczema-affected skin. It is fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and non-occlusive — designed to absorb and hydrate without triggering the fragrance and alcohol sensitivities common in reactive skin types.

→ Read the full Tattoo Care Bible | Shop Foam Nurse Wash | Shop Remedy Cream 100ml | Shop Remedy Cream 500ml