Does getting a tattoo break the fast?

Detailed answer

Strictly speaking, getting a tattoo does not break the fast. The needle goes into the skin, not into the stomach, and according to most scholars the small amount of bleeding does not invalidate a fast. However, the bigger issue is not the fast: a permanent tattoo is forbidden in Islam at all times, so getting one in Ramadan adds a sin to a month meant for leaving sins behind.

What the Sunnah says

The Prophet cursed the woman who tattoos others and the woman who has herself tattooed (Bukhari and Muslim). Scholars explain that this applies to men and women alike, and that the reasons include changing Allah's creation and harming the body. A curse in a hadith shows that the act is a serious sin.

What if I already have a tattoo?

• Your fast, wudu and prayer are valid. The ink is under the skin, so water still reaches the surface of the skin.
• If you got it before becoming Muslim, or without knowing the ruling, there is no blame on you for the past. See fasting as a new Muslim.
• If you got it knowing it was wrong, sincere repentance opens the door to Allah's forgiveness.
• Scholars differ on whether a tattoo must be removed; many say removal is needed only if it can be done without harm or great hardship. If you are unsure, ask a trusted local scholar.

Henna and temporary designs

Henna is allowed, especially for women, and does not break the fast; see hair dye and henna while fasting. Temporary designs on the surface of the skin are different from permanent tattoos. Be careful, though, with so-called "black henna", which can contain chemicals that cause serious skin reactions.

Bleeding and the fast

The question of bleeding comes up for other procedures too. Small amounts of blood taken or lost do not break the fast according to the mainstream view; see does a blood test break the fast?

If you are thinking about a tattoo, Ramadan is a good moment to reconsider and to choose another way to express yourself, such as henna, that brings no harm and no sin.