Can’t we really donate blood when we get a tattoo?
In: Biology
Currently, tattoos done in some states require a three-month deferral period due to state regulations and the risk of blood-borne infections that can be passed to others. Other states have no deferral period because of stricter regulations on tattoo shops. You still might want to wait until your tattoo heals up a bit because (I was told that) your plasma will help the color heal well. Generally speaking, if your tattoo was done with sterile, single-use equipment and new ink, you shouldn’t be at risk of an infection. However, since donated blood products are going to people who are sick or critically injured, any risk of contamination or infection isn’t acceptable.
Here’s additional info from a major donation center about eligibility requirements: https://www.vitalant.org/eligibility/additional-eligibility-requirements
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