No job, Banned from public places: Woman with 800 tattoos faces numerous challenges

Excess of everything is wrong. The saying come true for a woman who has excessive tattoos all over her body, including her face. The women's extensive tattoo collection became an obstacle in her life. Melissa Sloan, a 46-year-old Welsh mother, who has taken her passion for body art to an extreme level, has a staggering total of 800 tattoos on her body.

While tattoos can hold deep personal meanings for some individuals, Melissa's obsession with getting inked has come at a cost. Not only has she been unable to secure employment, but she also faces discrimination when trying to access shops and buildings.

Reports indicate that Melissa adds three new designs to her face every week, with most of the work being done by her partner using unconventional methods in the comfort of their home. However, this excessive tattooing has severely impacted Melissa's job prospects, leaving her unemployed for the past seven months.


Melissa shared her struggles, recounting how doors have been slammed in her face and how tattoo artists have refused to work on her because her face appears "beyond help." The consequences extend beyond professional barriers, as she has been banned from public places like pubs and even her own children's school. The derogatory remarks she receives from strangers, particularly in front of her children, further add to her challenges.

Despite the mounting difficulties, Melissa remains unwavering in her love for tattoos. She has declined laser treatments that could potentially remove the ink and is even considering the daring prospect of tattooing her eyeballs, willing to take the risk with her sight.

Melissa's unfortunate story highlights the problems and consequences of extensive body modification. Melissa's journey serves as a reminder that balance and moderation can play a crucial role in navigating the realm of body art.