Can You Tattoo Over Spider Veins?

• 5 May 2024
• Dr Zil Yassine

Last updated on May 5, 2024

Most methods to conceal spider veins are temporary, so it’s unsurprising that the question “Can you tattoo over spider veins?” comes up. After all, a permanent tattoo can cover up the problem veins for decades. However, tattooing over spider veins won’t get rid of them. And it may even be dangerous and complicate future treatment.

Can you tattoo over spider veins?

You can tattoo over your spider veins, but you probably shouldn’t. There are a few cons to consider. 

1. The spider veins may be linked to an underlying feeder or varicose vein, which may need to be addressed instead of just covered up
2. A tattoo can complicate spider vein treatment should you choose to pursue it later
3. Tattooing over veins and arteries usually carries a higher risk of infection
4. Diseased veins are slower to heal than healthy veins, potentially leading to complications
5. There is a chance more spider vein clusters may appear around the area, requiring further tattoos 
6. There is also a chance that if there are underlying varicose veins, they can grow larger, and distort the tattoo.

Will tattooing over veins hurt?

Tattooing over spider veins is unlikely to hurt more than tattooing over anywhere else. That said, spider veins themselves can sometimes hurt, and the comfort of your tattooing experience will largely depend on the sensitivity of your skin, the area being tattooed, and the skill of the artist.

Spider vein treatment may be the better option!

If you want to be rid of your spider veins, spider vein treatment is the best bet. At Spider Veins Australia, we offer minimally and non-invasive treatments. Our medical team will also scan the veins as part of your consultation to pinpoint any underlying feeder or varicose veins that need to be treated, reducing the risk of another spider vein cluster appearing in the area. Not to mention, when comparing prices, pain levels, and procedure time, tattoos and treatments aren’t all that different.

Learn more about our treatment options: Spider Vein Treatments – Spider Veins Australia

Alternative ways to cover up spider veins

Before you jump to tattoos, you can conceal the veins in other ways.

• Concealer. Spider veins are thin and lie flat on the skin, making them relatively easy to cover up with make-up. The one downside is you may need to reapply throughout the day,  depending on the quality of the product.
• Self-tanner. Veins are generally harder to see against darker skin. 
• Compression stockings. These are an especially good method as they will also boost circulation through the area.

About The Author

Dr Zil Yassine

Dr Zil Yassine is a practising doctor of over 15 years and an expert in non-invasive varicose vein treatments. Zil is dedicated and passionate about vascular health and staying up-to-date on the latest technology. Providing patients with the best care is Zil’s number one priority. As the Medical Director of The Vein Institute, he’s responsible for training doctors to diagnose vein diseases and ensuring they perform treatments to the highest standard. Dr Zil proudly holds a Bachelor of Medicine (UNSW), Diploma of Diagnostic Ultrasound in Phlebology (ACP), and is a fellow of FRACGP, F(Phleb UK).