Tattoos have different types, and the most prohibited type is the one that involves injecting ink under the skin, the process that has two issues to consider:
Firstly, the blood that is shed during the tattooing process is impure, and impurity affects the validity of acts of worship. Although it does not completely exit the body, it has separated from its original source and remains trapped under the skin, similar to impurities trapped under the nails, which should be removed.
Secondly, tattoos involve altering the creation of Allah and promoting inappropriate notions of beauty, as seen in excessive tattooing in Western societies. Furthermore, tattoos may involve images and elements that are prohibited in Islam, such as nude pictures, genitalia, or forbidden phrases. Therefore, the default principle for someone who has repented from this act is to remove the tattoo, even if it involves pain. However, if there is a possibility of harm or suspected damage to the tattooed area, then repentance is sufficient, and alleviating the hardship that the person might encounter takes precedence in such a situation. It is still advisable for the person to consult a doctor and seek their advice.
Fatwa by: Dr. Khalid Nasr