Can You Get Cosmetic Tattoos While Pregnant?

August 28, 2025

Cosmetic tattoos—also known as permanent makeup, micropigmentation, or semi-permanent makeup—have become increasingly popular in recent years. From perfectly shaped eyebrows to subtle eyeliner and tinted lips, these procedures offer long-lasting beauty solutions. But if you’re pregnant, you might be wondering: Is it safe to get cosmetic tattoos while expecting?

This blog will explore the risks, recommendations, and expert opinions surrounding cosmetic tattoos during pregnancy so you can make an informed decision.

What Are Cosmetic Tattoos?

Cosmetic tattoos are procedures where pigment is implanted into the dermal layer of the skin to enhance facial features. Common types include:

Though called “permanent,” most of these treatments fade over time and may require touch-ups every 1–3 years.

The Appeal During Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings about many changes in a woman’s body, including hormone fluctuations that can impact your skin, hair, and energy levels. Many women consider cosmetic tattoos during pregnancy for the following reasons:

To feel more confident during a time of physical change
To reduce daily grooming time, especially with newborn care approaching
To combat hair loss in eyebrows or eyelashes due to hormonal shifts

However, just because it sounds convenient doesn’t mean it’s the right time.

Is It Safe to Get Cosmetic Tattoos While Pregnant?

1. Lack of Medical Research

There is very limited research on the safety of cosmetic tattooing during pregnancy. Because most ethical studies avoid experimenting on pregnant women, there’s no conclusive data proving it’s safe—or unsafe. As a result, many professionals and healthcare providers err on the side of caution.

2. Risk of Infection

Tattooing, including cosmetic tattooing, involves breaking the skin barrier. If proper hygiene standards aren’t followed, there’s a risk of:

Infections such as staph or cellulitis
Bloodborne diseases like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV (in poorly regulated settings)

While high-end clinics follow strict sanitation protocols, no procedure is ever 100% risk-free. During pregnancy, your immune system is slightly suppressed, which could increase your susceptibility to infections.

3. Allergic Reactions and Sensitivities

Pregnancy can heighten your sensitivity to allergens and irritants. Even if you’ve had no previous issues with cosmetics, there’s a greater chance of reacting negatively to pigments or numbing agents during pregnancy.

Some women develop rashes, swelling, or inflammation, and adverse reactions may be more intense due to hormonal changes.

4. Pain and Stress

Although cosmetic tattooing is minimally invasive, it still causes discomfort. Stress or pain during the procedure could impact your blood pressure or cause unnecessary anxiety—which isn’t ideal when you’re carrying a baby.

5. Numbing Agents and Chemicals

Most cosmetic tattoo artists use topical numbing creams that may contain lidocaine or epinephrine. While these substances are generally safe in small amounts, their use during pregnancy hasn’t been thoroughly studied.

Absorption through the skin is minimal, but it’s another unknown variable that contributes to the general caution against tattooing during pregnancy.

6. Skin Changes During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can make your skin more:

Oily or dry
Prone to hyperpigmentation (e.g., melasma)
Sensitive or swollen

These changes may affect how the pigment settles in your skin, potentially leading to uneven results, excessive fading, or color distortion.

What Do Medical Experts Say?

Most healthcare providers, including OB/GYNs and dermatologists, advise against cosmetic tattooing during pregnancy. The American Pregnancy Association does not have an official stance, but many tattoo professionals follow the general medical guideline of postponing elective procedures while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Industry Standards: What Tattoo Artists Say

Reputable cosmetic tattoo artists typically refuse to treat pregnant clients. This is not only for your safety but also for legal and ethical reasons. You’ll likely be asked to confirm your pregnancy status during your consultation, and some clinics may even require a waiver or written consent from your doctor.

What About Breastfeeding?

The risks are lower while breastfeeding, but some precautions still apply:

Wait until your milk supply is established (usually after 6–8 weeks postpartum)
Avoid pigments and products known to leach into breast milk
Make sure your artist is experienced and operates in a clean, sterile environment

Always consult your pediatrician or OB/GYN before proceeding.

Alternatives to Consider During Pregnancy

If you’re eager for a beauty boost during pregnancy but want to avoid risks, consider these safer alternatives:

Henna brows or brow tinting (using pregnancy-safe dyes)
Brow lamination (if approved by your provider)
Makeup hacks using clean, non-toxic beauty products
Eyelash growth serums that are pregnancy-safe
Lip tints or stains that are easy to reapply and contain minimal ingredients

These temporary fixes can help you feel confident without exposing yourself to unnecessary risk.

Final Thoughts

While cosmetic tattoos might seem like a convenient and confidence-boosting idea during pregnancy, most experts agree it’s best to wait. Between the unknowns of pigment safety, infection risk, skin changes, and allergic reactions, the potential for complications simply outweighs the benefits.

Pregnancy is a time to prioritize your health and your baby’s development. If you’re still considering the procedure, consult your OB/GYN first and choose a highly experienced cosmetic tattoo artist who is honest about risks and policies.