We’ve all done it;
Laughed at a joke without actually understanding it, walked into a room and forgotten why, or got a tattoo that seemed like a great idea at the time, but later left us wondering what we were thinking.
Okay, maybe not ALL of us, but many of us have a tattoo we don’t love. One survey showed that 75% of respondents regret at least one of their tattoos.
When considering what to do with that old or unwanted tattoo there are two options; removal or a cover-up. Both approaches have their pros and cons, making the decision a personal one that depends on your goals, skin condition, and preferences. So, let's get into them a little bit.
Option 1: A Tattoo Cover-Up
Tattoo cover-ups are a popular solution for individuals looking to transform old or unwanted tattoos into something fresh and new. The process involves several important steps to ensure the new design effectively conceals the old one while creating a beautiful piece of art in its own right. So, what should you prepare and what should you expect during the cover-up process? Let's talk about it.
1. Conceptualize Your Cover-Up
Have a clear idea of what you want to cover your tattoo with, and have references prepared to show your artist. When brainstorming ideas, it’s important to know what makes for a successful cover-up. Cover-up tattoos generally need to be larger than the original tattoo to fully conceal it. Effective cover-ups usually incorporate dark colours, bold designs, and intricate details that can effectively mask the old tattoo. Traditional or neo-traditional tattoos, as well as abstract and geometric patterns like mandalas and tribal designs, work well due to their thick lines and solid fills. Nature themes, including floral designs and animals, are also popular choices, as their varied shapes and shading can hide the original tattoo while creating a visually appealing new piece.
2. Select Your Artist
Not all tattoo artists specialize in cover-ups, so when looking for an artist, make sure you ask about their experience in this area. You can always ask to see a portfolio of past work showcasing their ability to transform old tattoos. The right artist will have a good understanding of how to blend the new design with the old one seamlessly.
3. Book a Consultation
Once you’ve found an artist you like, get in touch with them or their shop to book a consultation. Consultations at our locations are free of charge and usually take about 20 minutes. During your consultation, the tattoo artist will evaluate your existing tattoo, taking note of its size, colour, and placement. This assessment helps determine the best approach for the cover-up. Together, you will discuss ideas for the new design, and your artist will ensure it’s feasible to cover the old tattoo. Some designs might not be suitable for cover-ups due to the limitations posed by the existing tattoo, so go into your consultation with an open mind.
4. Book in and Get Tattooed!
Once a design is agreed upon, the artist begins the process of planning the cover-up and creating a design that can effectively hide the old tattoo. The cover-up process involves careful consideration of colour theory to ensure the new colours blend well with the old ones, creating a cohesive look. The artist might use shading and highlights strategically to distract from the old tattoo and enhance the new design.
Tattoo Cover-Up FAQ
Q. Will a cover-up hurt more than the original tattoo?
A. The skin in the area of the old tattoo might be more sensitive due to the previous work, but the pain is entirely subjective.
Q. How much does a cover-up tattoo cost?
A. The cost of a cover-up tattoo will vary based on factors such as the size of the old tattoo, the complexity of the cover-up design, the experience of the tattoo artist, and the location of the tattoo studio. Generally, cover-up tattoos may cost more than regular tattoos due to the skill and time required to effectively mask the existing tattoo.
Option 2: Laser Tattoo Removal
Tattoo removal offers the possibility of eliminating the tattoo, leaving the skin as close to its original state as possible. Alternatively, laser removal can also help fade a tattoo. Fading can benefit those looking to cover up their tattoos with new designs, as a lighter base can make the cover-up process easier and more effective.
The removal process involves several important steps to ensure the complete and effective erasure of the existing tattoo. Let's talk about how to prepare and what to expect.
1. The consultation
The removal process begins with a thorough consultation where the tattoo's size, colour, age, and placement are assessed to determine the best course of treatment. The number of sessions required varies based on these factors, with some tattoos needing multiple treatments over several weeks or months to achieve complete removal.
2. Pre-Appointment Care
Everyone’s immune system will respond differently to treatment, so It's important to be in overall good health. Keeping hydrated is the #1 thing we recommend. Drink lots of water before and after your appointment and avoid coffee, energy drinks and salty foods.
3. The Removal
Laser treatment works by breaking down the ink particles in the skin so the body can naturally absorb and eliminate them. During the laser sessions, a specialized device emits pulses of laser light that penetrate the skin and target the tattoo ink. The laser causes the ink particles to fragment into smaller pieces, which the body's immune system can then clear away.
3. Aftercare
After treatment, it's essential to follow your technician's aftercare instructions. Commonly, they will instruct you to keep the treated area clean and dry. You’ll want to wash the area with fragrance-free soap twice daily, and pat it dry. Avoid submersion in water and expose the area to direct sunlight. It's normal for the treated area to scab or blister, but do not pick or scratch it, as this can lead to scarring or infection. If you experience itching, a thin layer of vitamin E cream can help. But remember that less is more when it comes to moisturizing.
Tattoo Removal FAQ
Q. What’s the pain like?
A. Laser tattoo removal can be painful, often described as feeling like a rubber band snapping against the skin. Advances in laser technology have made tattoo removal more effective and less painful than in the past. But there are potential side effects, including temporary redness, swelling, and, in some cases, scarring or pigmentation changes.
Q. How long will it take to remove the tattoo fully?
A. The number of sessions required to remove a tattoo fully varies based on many factors, but on average most pieces take about 10 or so visits. But remember, good things come to those who wait.
Ultimately, deciding between tattoo removal or a tattoo cover-up will depend on your personal preferences and circumstances. Tattoo removal offers the opportunity to start fresh, while cover-ups provide a quicker way to transform an old tattoo into something new. Each method has its own advantages and challenges, so it's important to consider your goals, skin condition, and vision. By consulting with professionals, you can make an informed decision that best aligns with your desired outcome.
