Senior Associate Solicitor, Serious Injury Claims
One of our Personal Injury experts, specialising in tattoo claims, answers a common question for those who have experienced complications following a tattoo or tattoo removal procedure.
“My tattoo became infected or caused an injury. Can I claim compensation?”
Answer: “Yes, you may be able to claim if the tattoo or removal procedure caused avoidable harm due to poor practice. Tattoo artists and studios owe a duty of care to carry out procedures safely, including following proper hygiene standards, using sterile equipment, and working within their level of competence. If this duty was breached and it led to complications such as infection, scarring, burns, or a skin condition, you may be entitled to compensation. It is important to note that not all complications will result in a claim, as some risks can occur even when procedures are carried out correctly. The key issue is whether the harm was avoidable. You should seek medical attention as soon as possible and keep records of your symptoms, treatment, and any advice given. Evidence such as photographs and receipts can also be helpful. We can help you understand whether negligence may have occurred and what steps you can take to pursue a claim.”
It is important to recognise that some level of risk is inherent in tattooing and tattoo removal procedures. Even when carried out correctly, there can still be reactions such as mild irritation or temporary swelling. For this reason, a poor outcome on its own does not necessarily mean that negligence has occurred.
The key question is whether the harm could reasonably have been avoided. For example, if proper procedures were not followed, if appropriate aftercare advice was not given, or if a practitioner carried out treatment they were not suitably trained to perform, this may point towards a failure in the standard of care.
In more serious cases, complications can have a lasting impact. Visible scarring, skin damage, or burns can affect confidence and wellbeing, particularly where the tattoo is in a prominent area. Some individuals may also require further medical treatment or corrective procedures, which can add both financial and emotional strain.
Understanding what went wrong often requires a detailed assessment of the circumstances. This can include how the procedure was carried out, the information and aftercare advice you were given, and how your symptoms developed over time. Our team can guide you through this process by reviewing your evidence, obtaining relevant records, and, where appropriate, working with independent experts to assess whether the harm could have been avoided.
If a claim is successful, compensation is intended to reflect both the injury itself and its wider impact. This may include the cost of treatment, corrective work, loss of earnings, and the effect on your confidence and quality of life.
If you have experienced complications following a tattoo or tattoo removal procedure and want to understand whether you may be able to make a claim, call us on 0808 149 9561 for a free, no-obligation claims assessment and find out how we may be able to help.
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Charlotte handles a caseload of Personal Injury cases dealing with Serious Injury, and has particular interest in Upper and Lower Limb disorders including Amputation of toes and fingers.
Charlotte also has management experience alongside her extensive legal knowledge, and regularly participates in Simpson Millar’s internal mentoring scheme.
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