Tattoos and tattoo ink
Tattoo inks vary in pigment composition; some older or imported inks contain trace iron oxide that can warm slightly under the radio-frequency pulses used by the scanner. The vast majority of patients feel nothing at all. A small number report a mild warm or tingling sensation in the tattooed area during the scan.
If you notice warmth or tingling during your MRI, tell the technologist immediately through the intercom — we will pause the sequence. Lasting skin reactions from MRI on tattoos are extremely rare.
Fresh tattoos (less than six weeks old) should be discussed with your prescriber and our technologist before the scan, since the skin is still healing.
Body piercings
Almost all body piercings should be removed before your MRI. Even non-magnetic piercings can heat up, distort the image near the area being scanned, or pull uncomfortably in the magnet. Bring a pair of stick-in earrings or non-metallic retainers if you are worried about a fresh piercing closing during the exam.
If a piercing absolutely cannot be removed (for example, a newly placed dermal anchor), tell our team before the appointment so the radiologist can decide whether to proceed, modify the protocol, or recommend an alternative test.
Permanent makeup and cosmetic tattoos
Eyeliner, microbladed eyebrows, lip liner, and scalp micropigmentation can occasionally contain iron-based pigment. The most commonly reported effect is mild warmth or tingling in the area. Serious reactions are extremely rare.
Removable lash extensions and conventional makeup with shimmer or mineral pigments can heat up; please remove eye makeup before head MRIs.
Magnetic eyelash extensions and accessories
Magnetic eyelashes, magnetic eyeliner, and any clothing or accessory that includes magnetic fasteners must be removed before entering the scanner room.
If this applies to you
- Remove all body piercings before your appointment (or bring non-metallic retainers).
- Wash off eye makeup, foundation, and shimmer cosmetics — many contain trace metals.
- Remove magnetic eyelashes, magnetic eyeliner, and any magnetic accessories.
- Tell us if you have a tattoo less than six weeks old or if a tattoo has been irritated recently.
- If you feel warmth during the scan, press the call button — we will pause immediately.
Call us before your appointment if…
- You have a fresh tattoo (less than six weeks old).
- A piercing cannot be removed (newly placed dermal anchor, infection, embedded jewelry).
- You have a history of severe skin reaction to a tattoo or permanent makeup.
This page is general patient education and does not replace the medical advice of your physician. It describes how Precise Imaging operates today and is not a substitute for the specific instructions on your appointment confirmation. Always discuss your medical history with the provider who ordered your exam.
Frequently asked questions
Will my tattoo get hot during an MRI?
Most patients feel nothing. A small number report mild warmth or tingling in the tattooed area, especially with older, darker, or imported inks. We pause immediately if you feel discomfort.
Can I leave my piercings in?
Generally no — we ask that all body piercings be removed before the scan. They can heat up, distort image quality, and pull uncomfortably in the magnet.
Is microbladed or permanent eyeliner makeup a problem?
Almost never. A small number of patients feel mild warmth in the area. Serious reactions are extremely rare. Wash off any non-permanent eye makeup before a head MRI.
Can MRI ruin my tattoo or fade the ink?
No. MRI does not fade or damage tattoo ink. There has been no demonstrated long-term effect on tattoos from a routine MRI.
I just got a new tattoo — can I still have my MRI?
Tattoos less than six weeks old should be discussed with your provider. The healing skin is more sensitive, and we may recommend rescheduling if the scan is not urgent.
What about henna or temporary tattoos?
Plant-based henna does not interact with the magnet. Some "black henna" temporary tattoos contain metallic pigments — wash them off before the scan if possible.