Contraindications: when is tattooing postponed or declined?

The Austrian legal framework

The current professional rules for tattooing can be found in the Austrian Legal Information System (RIS), including Section 3 of the applicable regulation. The current consolidated version matters; older Federal Law Gazette PDFs may show only the historical publication.

These rules require a consultation, documentation, hygiene and responsible assessment. This article is a general overview and not an individual medical decision.

When tattooing should not proceed

Tattooing is generally postponed in cases such as fever, acute infection, visibly inflamed or injured skin, or when a person cannot give informed consent. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are also excluded under LUNART's current safety policy.

An artist may decline even where a certificate exists if the condition observed on the day makes the procedure appear unsafe. A medical statement does not remove the artist's own duty of care.

When individual medical assessment is needed

Existing illnesses, allergies, skin conditions, medication or treatments can require written medical assessment before tattooing. The treating doctor should know the relevant diagnosis, medication and planned procedure and state whether there are medical concerns.

Studios may apply stricter internal safety rules than the legal minimum. The final decision depends on the current condition, the planned placement and the professional judgement of the artist.

Speak openly before the appointment

Tell the studio about relevant medication, allergies, medical conditions, pregnancy, breastfeeding, infections or changes at the intended site. Do not stop prescribed medication yourself. If anything is unclear, tattooing should wait until it has been properly clarified.