Linear morphea

[laura&disorder]

Hello, I am currently living with localised scleroderma (linear morphea) and I have a question that nobody has been able to answer for me in years!
I have a number of patches on my body which are all now 'dead' or in remission, so are really just large scars, and I really want to get some of the more obvious ones covered with tattoos - would this be considered dangerous at all? Some specialists have said it may 'reignite' the condition if I were to have any trauma on the skin. I have tattoos around the patches but none directly covering which I really would like to have.
Kind regards
Laura

[Vanessa Jane Davies]

Hello Laura,

Tattoos are not within my expertise, but I can certainly advice on skin camouflage.

These products can be used on the body, are waterproof, durable and can be coloured matched perfectly to your natural skin colour. It's even possible to blend the skin camouflage pigments towards your tattoos to create a balanced look. Some brands will last on the skin for 2/3 days.The colour mixing and application varies person to person, so it would be a good idea to consider an appointment.

I can help in more detail if you wish to get in touch directly.

[Dr Anjali Mahto]

Dear Laura,

Many thanks for taking the time to post a question.

Linear morphoea has been reported to exhibit a phenomenon known as "Koebnerisation". In sites of injury to the skin (e.g. by the needle used in tattooing) it is possible to develop new skin lesions in otherwise healthy skin.

Technically, therefore, you may get morphoea in the areas you tattoo. Unfortunately, it is difficult to predict what may happen but the risks are certainly there.

I hope this answers your question.

Best wishes,

Anjali