Mom With 800 Tattoos Is Denied Jobs Because of Her Appearance

Tattoos have long sparked debates, particularly across different generations. However, as time passes, there’s a growing acceptance of body art. Melissa Sloan embodies a unique perspective on body art, having encountered its contrasting side, like being mistakenly identified as a bank robber. Discover how this mother courageously navigates societal viewpoints and gain insight into her perspective on stereotypes.

Melissa has seen a lot of judgement because of her inked appearance.

Melissa Sloan, aged 46, hails from Wales, United Kingdom. Previously employed as a restroom cleaner, she now finds herself unable to secure similar work due to the extensive tattoo art that adorns her face and body. Melissa, a mother, faces a challenging time in her quest for paid employment, as her inked appearance becomes a basis for prejudicial judgments.

“I can’t get a job,” Sloan says in her interview. “I applied for a job cleaning toilets where I live, and they won’t have me because of my tattoos.”

The mother-of-2 is absolutely puzzled by people’s criticism.

Melissa genuinely can’t fathom why others invest energy pondering over her tattoos. “People have said I have never had a job in my life, but I have had one once, and it didn’t last long,” she says. “If someone offered me a job tomorrow, I would go and work — I would take that offer.”

Her journey with tattoos began at 20, evolving into a deep-seated passion. Facial tattoos, in particular, hold a special place in her heart, leaving no part of her face untouched by ink. Melissa has layered new tattoos over the old thrice, culminating in a rich tapestry of art on her face.

Despite all her struggles, she doesn’t want to give up on her passion.

Despite the challenges she faces in her job search, Melissa affirms that she continues to acquire a minimum of three new tattoos every week, describing herself as undeniably “addicted.”

“If I make it to 70, I’ll still be getting them,” she said. “Every bit of skin will be covered even if I’m turning blue, my face is already turning blue — I look like a Smurf.”

If you’re intrigued by narratives that challenge stereotypes, here’s another story you might find compelling. Dive into the account of a mother who sparked controversy and faced criticism for tattooing her baby’s body.