Ionic and Tattoos HR Sensor

[FitnessPassion]

This question has probably been answered, but just wanted to check the most up to date answer. I’ve been through some trackers and the only one which works over my tattoos (both hands and wrists) is the Charge 2. I’ve had to return the Versa, so I thought I’d try the Ionic. It’s my final attempt before sticking with the Charge 2. Anyone know if the HR works over tattoos for this device?  I’m on iOS. 

[LZeeW · Accepted solution]

Hello @FitnessPassion and a warm welcome.  The answer will depend on your tattoos.  Let me give you a "how this stuff works" explanation.  The heart rate sensor has and light emitter and two sensors.  The light goes just a few millimeters and is reflected back.  The sensor is looking for blood flow in tiny blood vessels under the skin.  Tattoo ink is deposited in that SAME layer of the skin.  The ink interferes with the whole emitting/sensing process.

The emitter and sensors are larger on the Ionic than on the Versa/Charge 2 and they are arranged differently.  Whether it will work or not depends on your ink.  The answer is maybe.

[FitnessPassion]

Thanks @LZeeW  This helps somewhat with regard to the sensor and emitter being larger on the Ionic than the Versa model. I shall give it a go. Hopefully I’ll update with good news! 

[LZeeW]

@FitnessPassion  If you are going to give it a try, get your Ionic from Fitbit.  Fitbit has a 45 day, no questions asked return policy.

[FitnessPassion]

Cheers @LZeeW , I’ve ordered from Fitbit. Fingers crossed.