Eating disorders harm both physical and mental health, damaging a person’s relationship with their body. While anyone can develop an eating disorder, gender and sexual minority (GSM) individuals—including LGBTQ+ and non-binary people—face a higher risk. Yet, few studies explore ways to help this group recover.
Now, new research suggests an unexpected tool might aid recovery: tattoos. A 2025 study by Silverstein and Santibañez examined how tattoos affect body image and healing in a mostly transgender and gender-expansive group. Their findings reveal that tattoos may do more than decorate skin—they could help people reclaim control, self-worth, and connection to their bodies.
How Was the Study Conducted?
Researchers held focus groups with 15 people who:
- Had lived with an eating disorder.
- Identified as being in recovery.
- Had at least three tattoos.
- Mostly belonged to GSM communities.
Participants discussed how tattoos influenced their recovery, body image, and self-perception. Researchers then analyzed their responses for common themes.
Key Discoveries: How Tattoos Help Recovery
A Symbol of Commitment
Getting a tattoo requires self-care, like proper nutrition and wound healing—behaviors that align with recovery.
Many saw tattoos as permanent reminders of growth, shifting focus from appearance to what their bodies can do.
One participant said: “This tattoo represents my life with me. No one can take that away.”
A Therapeutic Experience
The process of getting inked helped resist harmful beauty standards and objectification.
Working with LGBTQ+-friendly tattoo artists provided affirmation and gender euphoria.
“Being tattooed by another trans person was incredibly affirming. We talked about gender while doing it—it was amazing,” shared one participant.
Reconnecting With the Body
For many GSM individuals and people with disabilities, tattoos helped them feel present in their bodies rather than disconnected.
The physical pain of tattooing allowed some to process years of body shame.
“During the session, I faced old hatred for my body. Afterward, I felt proud and wanted to show it off,” one person explained.
Challenging Beauty Standards
Tattoos helped participants redefine beauty on their own terms, fostering self-compassion.
One person described a stomach tattoo as life-changing: “After getting it, I stopped hating my reflection. It made me feel stronger.”
What Does This Mean for Recovery?
The study suggests tattoos could be more than art—they may help rebuild body trust, especially for marginalized groups. It also highlights the need for inclusive, personalized recovery approaches.
Future research could track whether tattoos directly reduce eating disorder symptoms over time. For now, the findings offer hope: healing isn’t one-size-fits-all, and sometimes, it comes in ink.
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