This is a question I get asked a lot! And the answer is no, not at all. I have many clients in the age range of their late 60s-late 70’s; some that are getting a tattoo for the very first time ever, and others that have come back for multiples.
Cherry blossom tattoo, age 72
Seashell tattoo healed for 1 year, age 76
One of the main differences in our skin as we age is the level of elasticity, caused by a natural decline in collagen, and the elastic fibers known as elastin. This can cause the skin to be fragile, thinner, and more prone to bruising according to the National Institute on Aging.
2 months healed around existing tattoo, age 72
I usually recommend starting with a consultation, so I can get a feel for the area that the client is wanting their tattoo on. I suggest avoiding areas where the skin is excessively loose, such as upper inner arms, for example. I also like to manage expectations during the consultation process as far as the level of detail we can achieve within the tattoo itself, while still maintaining longevity and legibility within the design. Since the skin itself tends to be a bit thinner, it can be more prone to “blow-outs”, which is when the ink is tattooed too deep and goes past the dermis(where tattoo ink should sit) and into the hypodermis. To minimize this risk I start with really light shallow lines when I’m first starting the tattoo, to gauge my depth. I would prefer you to come back for a touch up if it's light, instead of going too deep initially.
Tattoo for granddaughter, age 68
All in all, tattoos are possible on every skin type, at every age.
