The Effect Tattoos Have on Optical Heart Rate Sensor Performance

For devices that have a built-in optical heart rate sensor, the light from the sensor penetrates the skin to estimate heart rate. This sensor has been designed to work with darker skin by increasing the intensity of the light automatically. Some tattoos can impact heart rate sensor accuracy and performance. The ink, pattern, and saturation of some tattoos can block light from the sensor, potentially making it difficult to get reliable heart rate readings.