🐧 It’s March! Time to bloom 💐 some love to our amazing Maverick community!🧡
For the month of March, our spotlight artist Justin Shimrock has chosen to have his donation go towards Hope vs Cancer. This organization promotes hope through art- check out some of the donor artists HERE.
Thanks to all of YOU we were able to donate our monthly cap of $1,000 to..
HOPE VS CANCER
Hope vs Cancer Foundation serves as a crucial voice in raising awareness about childhood cancer. Recognizing the emotional toll cancer takes on children, this organization focuses on uplifting their spirits during treatment.
Hope vs Cancer uplifts the spirits of children battling cancer through the power of art. Artists contribute their creations, which are then transformed into temporary tattoos, providing a source of joy and comfort for children facing difficult times.
If YOU would like to submit your art work to this organization, check out the submission requirements HERE.
Moisturized Healing Tattoo Aftercare, also known as traditionaltattoo aftercare, involves using ointments, lotions, and creams to keep the tattooed area moisturized and protected during the healing process. This method is widely recommended by tattoo artists and has been proven to help prevent infections, minimize scabbing, and promote faster healing. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about moisturizing tattoo aftercare.
Introduction
Proper aftercare is essential for ensuring that your new tattoo heals beautifully and remains vibrant for years to come. Moisturized Healing Tattoo Aftercare, also known as traditional tattoo aftercare, is the most commonly recommended method, involving the use of tattoo moisturizers and protective ointments. This approach not only helps in maintaining the tattoo’s appearance but also minimizes the risk of infections and other complications. Let’s delve into the specifics of moisturized healing tattoo aftercare.
What is Moisturized Healing Tattoo Aftercare?
Moisturized healing tattoo aftercare involves cleaning the tattoo regularly and applying a thin layer of ointment or tattoo lotion to keep it moisturized. This method supports the skin’s natural healing process by preventing it from drying out, which can cause scabbing and discomfort. The use of specific tattoo care products helps protect the tattoo from external contaminants and promotes a smoother healing process.
Benefits of Moisturized Healing Tattoo Aftercare
Moisture Retention Keeping the tattooed area moisturized prevents the skin from drying out and cracking, which can lead to scabbing and potential ink loss.
Protection from Infection Using antibacterial ointments and creams can help reduce the risk of infection by creating a barrier against bacteria and other pathogens.
Drawbacks of Moisturized Healing Tattoo Aftercare
Healing Stages
Understanding the healing stages is crucial for proper tattoo care.
Here’s a quick overview of each stage:
Initial Healing Stage (1-3 Days) The tattoo will be red, swollen, and may ooze a mixture of blood, plasma, and ink. This is normal as your body starts the healing process.
For more detailed information on each stage, visit our blog on Tattoo Healing Stages.
Moisturized Healing Tattoo Aftercare
Moisturizing aftercare involves a consistent routine of cleaning and moisturizing to ensure optimal healing. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to take care of a tattoo with moisturizers.
First 24 Hours
Bandaging After the tattoo is completed, your artist will apply a bandage or plastic wrap to protect it from bacteria and external contaminants. Keep this bandage on for the first few hours or as advised by your artist.
First Wash After removing the tattoo bandage, gently wash the tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water. Use your clean hands to cleanse the area and pat it dry with a clean, soft towel.
Apply Ointment After the tattoo has dried, apply a thin layer of a recommended ointment, such as Aquaphor or Tattoo Goo, to keep the area moisturized.
Daily Care Routine
Moisturizing Apply a thin layer of a recommended tattoo ointment or lotion after each wash to keep the skin hydrated. Products like Aquaphor, Hustle Butter Deluxe, and Aliens Stuff are excellent choices.
Stay Hydrated Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within. Proper hydration can help minimize dryness and promote healing.
Avoid Picking As the tattoo heals, it will form scabs and may begin to peel. Resist the urge to pick or scratch at the scabs and peeling skin to avoid damaging the tattoo.
Activities to Avoid
Certain activities can negatively impact your healing tattoo. Avoid the following:
Swimming Pools and Beaches Avoid swimming in pools, oceans, and hot tubs for at least 7 days to prevent exposure to bacteria and chemicals.
Allergy-Inducing Products to Avoid
For individuals with allergic skin types, proper tattoo aftercare involves more than just basic cleaning and moisturizing. It requires careful selection of products and activities to prevent allergic reactions that can complicate the healing process. Here are some key considerations:
Cosmetics and Lotions Stay away from cosmetic products containing allergens or harsh chemicals. Use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free tattoo lotions and cosmetics to minimize the risk of allergic reactions and irritation during the tattoo healing process.
Insect Bites/Stings Take extra precautions to protect your tattoo from insect bites and stings, which can cause allergic reactions and complicate healing. Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to minimize exposure.
Avoid Synthetic Fabrics Some individuals are allergic to synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and spandex. These materials can cause itching and irritation, especially during the healing process. Opt for natural fibers like cotton to reduce discomfort.
Avoid Wool Wool can be harsh and irritating to sensitive skin. If you are prone to allergies, it is best to avoid wool garments until your tattoo is fully healed. Choose soft, breathable fabrics to prevent irritation.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis Identify and avoid irritants that can cause dermatitis, such as harsh chemicals and cleaning agents. Use mild, hypoallergenic products to protect your skin and support the healing of your tattoo.
Common Concerns and Solutions
Managing Itching
Itching is a common part of the healing process, especially with moisturizing aftercare. Here are some tips to manage itching:
For more detailed strategies on managing itching, visit our blog on
Managing Tattoo Itching and Peeling.
Dealing with Peeling
Peeling is another natural part of the healing process. To handle peeling effectively:
Preventing and Recognizing Infection
Preventing infection is critical in the moisturizing aftercare process. Here’s how to minimize the risk and recognize signs of infection:
Monitor for Signs of Infection Look for signs such as excessive redness, swelling, heat, or pus. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical attention immediately.
Pus or Unusual Discharge Yellow or green pus, foul odour, or any unusual discharge from the tattooed area indicates an infection.
If you suspect your tattoo is infected, seek medical advice promptly. Do not attempt to treat the infection yourself.
Suitable Candidates for Moisturized Healing Aftercare
Moisturized healing aftercare is suitable for most people, but certain factors may influence its effectiveness:
Skin Type Individuals with normal to dry skin may find moisturizing aftercare more beneficial, as it helps keep the skin hydrated. Those with extremely oily skin may need to use lighter products to avoid clogging pores. For more information on suitable aftercare methods based on your skin type, check out our blog on Tattoo Aftercare by Skin Type.
Climate/Weather Moisturized healing aftercare can be effective in various climates, but adjustments may be needed. In humid climates, lighter products may be more appropriate, while in dry climates, heavier moisturizers can help prevent dryness. To learn more about the best aftercare practices for different weather conditions, visit our blog on Tattoo Aftercare by Weather.
Tattoo Size and Location Moisturized healing aftercare is suitable for tattoos of all sizes and locations. However, larger tattoos may require more frequent applications of moisturizers to ensure the entire area stays hydrated.
Foods to Eat and Avoid for Better Healing
Your diet can significantly impact the tattoo healing process of your tattoo. Here’s a guide on what to eat and what to avoid to promote faster and better healing.
Foods to Eat
Foods Rich in Vitamins A, C, and E These vitamins are crucial for skin health and repair. Include fruits like oranges, strawberries, and blueberries, and vegetables like spinach, kale, and bell peppers in your diet.
Lean Proteins Protein is essential for tissue repair. Incorporate lean meats, fish, eggs, and plant-based proteins like beans and lentils into your meals.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Zinc-Rich Foods Zinc aids in skin repair and immune function. Foods like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and nuts are excellent sources.
Hydrating Foods Foods with high water content, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and watermelon, can help keep your skin hydrated from within.
Foods with Antibiotic Properties Include foods with natural antibiotic properties like garlic, ginger, and turmeric to help prevent infections and promote healing.
Foods to Avoid
Allergenic Foods Foods that you know you are allergic to should be avoided to prevent any allergic reactions that could interfere with healing. Common allergens include seafood (like shellfish, crabs, and prawns), gluten, and nuts.
Foods that Generate Heat Foods that are known to generate heat in the body, such as excessive red meat, should be limited.
Post-Aftercare
Once your tattoo has fully scabbed and peeled, you can start transitioning to a maintenance routine to keep it looking vibrant. This typically happens around the 2-4 week mark, depending on the size and location of the tattoo. Here’s how to transition:
Choose the Right Product Continue with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or a specialized tattoo aftercare cream like Aquaphor, Tattoo Goo, or Aliens Stuff.
For detailed guidance on maintaining your tattoo’s vibrancy and health in the long term, check out our blog on Long-Term Tattoo Care.
Comparison with Other Healing Methods
Moisturized healing aftercare is just one of several aftercare methods. Here’s how it compares to others:
Wrap Healing Uses protective films like Dermalize to cover the tattoo, reducing the risk of infection and promoting faster healing. This method can be more convenient but may be less breathable. Read about it in our blog on Wrap Healing Tattoo Aftercare.
FAQs
How often should I moisturize my tattoo?
Moisturize your tattoo 2-3 times a day, or as recommended by your tattoo artist, to keep the skin hydrated and prevent scabbing.
What if my tattoo feels too dry?
Can I exercise while my tattoo is healing?
How long does the moisturizing healing process take?
Can I switch from moisturizing healing to dry healing methods?
Conclusion
Moisturized healing tattoo aftercare is a tried-and-true method that helps ensure your new tattoo heals beautifully and remains vibrant. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure your tattoo heals properly and remains a piece of art for years to come. Always consult with your tattoo artist if you have any concerns or questions about the healing process.
Goku’s relentless pursuit of self-improvement and Vegeta’s unyielding determination make them ideal candidates for Dragon Ball tattoo designs. Goku, known for his unwavering optimism and never-give-up attitude, inspires many to face challenges head-on. His journey from a simple Saiyan warrior to the strongest fighter in the universe is a story of continuous growth. A dragon ball tattoo featuring Goku often serves as a powerful reminder to push beyond one’s limits and embrace the process of self-betterment.
On the other hand, Vegeta represents a different kind of inspiration. His journey is one of redemption and personal transformation. Initially driven by pride and a desire to surpass Goku, Vegeta’s character evolves to show that true strength comes from within. Dragon Ball Z tattoo ideas that feature Vegeta often emphasize his fierce determination and growth from a rival to a protector. These tattoos of dragon ball z are not just about his battles but about his inner struggle and ultimate redemption, making them deeply meaningful to those who admire his path.
Dry healing, also known as natural healing, is a tattoo aftercaremethod where no ointments, lotions, or creams are used on a new tattoo. Instead, the tattoo is allowed to heal naturally by leaving it exposed to air. This method relies on the body’s natural healing processes and is favoured by some for its simplicity and the belief that it can result in a more vibrant, detailed tattoo. However, dry healing requires careful attention and strict adherence to hygiene practices to avoid complications. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about dry healing tattoo aftercare.
Introduction
Choosing the right aftercare method is crucial for the appearance and longevity of your tattoo. While many people opt for traditional methods involving tattoo lotions and ointments, dry healing offers an alternative that allows your skin to breathe and heal naturally. This method is gaining popularity among tattoo enthusiasts and artists for its simplicity and potential benefits. Let’s dive into the details of dry healing and how you can successfully use this method to care for your new tattoo.
What is Dry Healing of Natural Healing Tattoo Aftercare?
Dry healing, or natural healing, is a tattoo aftercare method where the tattoo is left to heal without the application of any ointments, creams, or lotions. The idea is to allow the tattoo to breathe and heal through exposure to air, relying solely on the body’s natural healing capabilities. This method requires careful monitoring and a commitment to cleanliness to ensure the tattoo heals properly.
Benefits of Dry Healing
Natural Healing Process Dry healing allows the body to use its natural healing mechanisms, which can result in a more vibrant and detailed tattoo.
Simplified Routine Without the need for multiple applications of ointments or creams, the aftercare routine becomes simpler and less time-consuming.
Reduced Risk of Over-Moisturizing Over-moisturizing can lead to issues such as clogged pores and excessive scabbing. Dry healing eliminates this risk.
Less Risk of Allergic Reactions Some individuals may react to the ingredients in tattoo aftercare products. Dry healing avoids potential allergic reactions and skin irritations.
Drawbacks of Dry Healing
Increased Discomfort Dry healing can result in more intense itching and dryness, which can be uncomfortable.
Higher Risk of Scabbing Without the moisturizing effect of ointments, there is a higher chance of thicker scabs forming, which can potentially pull out ink.
Vigilant Monitoring Required
Dry healing requires constant monitoring to ensure the tattoo is not becoming overly dry or developing signs of infection.
Healing Stages
Understanding the healing stages is crucial for proper tattoo care. Here’s a quick overview of each stage:
Initial Healing Stage (1-3 Days) The tattoo will be red, swollen, and may ooze a mixture of blood, plasma, and ink. This is normal as your body starts the healing process.
Scabbing Stage (3-7 Days) Scabs will form over the tattooed area. It is important not to pick or scratch the scabs.
Peeling Stage (1-2 Weeks) The tattoo will start to peel as dead skin cells are replaced by new ones. This stage can be itchy.
Fully Healed Stage (2-4 Weeks) The tattoo should be fully healed on the surface, but deeper layers of the skin may continue to heal for several months.
For more detailed information on each stage, visit our blog on Tattoo Healing Stages.
Dry Healing Tattoo Aftercare (Natural Healing)
Dry healing requires a disciplined approach to ensure your tattoo heals properly and remains free of complications. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to dry heal a tattoo.
First 24 Hours
Bandaging After the tattoo is completed, your artist will apply a bandage or plastic wrap to protect it from bacteria and external contaminants. Keep this bandage on for the first few hours or as advised by your artist.
First Wash After removing the tattoo bandage, gently wash the tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water. Use your clean hands to cleanse the area and pat it dry with a clean, soft towel.
Let It Breathe After washing, allow the tattoo to air dry completely. Do not apply any lotions or creams. Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid friction and irritation.
Daily Care Routine
Cleaning Wash the tattoo twice a day with mild, fragrance-free chemical free soap such as Johnson & Johnson baby soap and lukewarm water. Pat it dry with a clean towel and allow it to air dry completely.
Avoid Moisturizers Do not apply any ointments, creams, or lotions. The goal is to let the tattoo breathe and heal naturally.
Stay Hydrated Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within. Proper hydration can help minimize dryness and promote healing.
Avoid Picking As the tattoo heals, it will form scabs and may begin to peel. Resist the urge to pick or scratch at the scabs and peeling skin to avoid damaging the tattoo.
Activities to Avoid
Certain activities can negatively impact your healing tattoo. Avoid the following:
Sun Exposure Protect your tattoo from direct sunlight, which can cause fading and damage. Wear protective clothing and avoid sunbathing.
Swimming Pools and Beaches Avoid swimming in pools, oceans, and hot tubs for at least 7 days to prevent exposure to bacteria and chemicals.
Alcohol Consumption Alcohol can thin the blood and increase bleeding. Avoid alcohol for at least 7 days after getting your tattoo.
Intense Workouts Avoid strenuous exercise that causes excessive sweating or friction on the tattooed area for at least 2 weeks.
Shaving the Tattooed Area Avoid shaving over the tattoo until it is fully healed to prevent irritation and potential infection.
Waxing and Laser Treatments Do not wax or undergo laser treatments on the tattooed area until it is fully healed to avoid damage and irritation.
Recreational Drug Consumption Avoid consuming drugs that may interfere with the tattoo healing process.
Allergy-Inducing Products to Avoid
For individuals with allergic skin types, proper tattoo aftercare involves more than just basic cleaning and moisturizing. It requires careful selection of products and activities to prevent allergic reactions that can complicate the healing process. Here are some key considerations:
Nickel and Metals Be cautious with jewelry and accessories that may contain nickel or other metals known to cause contact dermatitis. Opt for hypoallergenic alternatives to prevent allergic reactions and ensure your tattoo heals without complications.
Latex Avoid latex gloves or bandages if you have a latex allergy. Opt for non-latex alternatives to prevent skin irritation and allergic reactions, ensuring a smooth healing process for your tattoo.
Cosmetics and Lotions Stay away from cosmetic products containing allergens or harsh chemicals. Use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free tattoo lotions and cosmetics to minimize the risk of allergic reactions and irritation during the tattoo healing process.
Insect Bites/Stings Take extra precautions to protect your tattoo from insect bites and stings, which can cause allergic reactions and complicate healing. Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to minimize exposure.
Avoid Synthetic Fabrics Some individuals are allergic to synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and spandex. These materials can cause itching and irritation, especially during the healing process. Opt for natural fibers like cotton to reduce discomfort.
Avoid Wool Wool can be harsh and irritating to sensitive skin. If you are prone to allergies, it is best to avoid wool garments until your tattoo is fully healed. Choose soft, breathable fabrics to prevent irritation.
Drug-Induced Skin Allergies Be mindful of any medications you are taking that may cause skin allergies. Consult your doctor to manage medications effectively and avoid any that might interfere with your tattoo’s healing process.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis Avoid materials and substances that cause allergic contact dermatitis. Opt for hypoallergenic products and materials to prevent reactions and ensure your tattoo heals smoothly without complications.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis Identify and avoid irritants that can cause dermatitis, such as harsh chemicals and cleaning agents. Use mild, hypoallergenic products to protect your skin and support the healing of your tattoo.
Common Concerns and Solutions Managing Itching
Itching is a common part of the healing process, especially with dry healing. Here are some tips to manage itching:
For more detailed strategies on managing itching, visit our blog on
Managing Tattoo Itching and Peeling.
Dealing with Peeling
Peeling is another natural part of the tattoo healing process. To handle peeling effectively:
Preventing and Recognizing Infection
Preventing infection is critical in the dry healing process. Here’s how to minimize the risk and recognize signs of infection:
Monitor for Signs of Infection Look for signs such as excessive redness, swelling, heat, or pus. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical attention immediately.
Pus or Unusual Discharge Yellow or green pus, foul odor, or any unusual discharge from the tattooed area indicates an infection.
We have a comprehensive blog post on Tattoo Infections and Complications which covers this topic in depth. If you suspect your tattoo is infected, seek medical advice promptly. Do not attempt to treat the infection yourself.
Suitable Candidates for Dry Healing
Dry healing is not suitable for everyone. Here are some considerations:
Skin Type Individuals with normal to oily skin may find dry healing more manageable. Those with extremely dry or sensitive skin might experience more discomfort. For more information on suitable aftercare methods based on your skin type, check out our blog on Tattoo Aftercare by Skin Type.
Climate/Weather Dry healing is more suitable in moderate climates. Extremely hot or cold weather can exacerbate dryness and discomfort. To learn more about the best aftercare practices for different weather conditions, visit our blog on Tattoo Aftercare by Weather.
Foods to Eat and Avoid for Better Healing
Your diet can significantly impact the healing process of your tattoo. Here’s a guide on what to eat and what to avoid to promote faster and better healing.
Foods to Eat
Foods Rich in Vitamins A, C, and E These vitamins are crucial for skin health and repair. Include fruits like oranges, strawberries, and blueberries, and vegetables like spinach, kale, and bell peppers in your diet.
Lean Proteins Protein is essential for tissue repair. Incorporate lean meats, fish, eggs, and plant-based proteins like beans and lentils into your meals.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Zinc-Rich Foods Zinc aids in skin repair and immune function. Foods like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and nuts are excellent sources.
Hydrating Foods Foods with high water content, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and watermelon, can help keep your skin hydrated from within.
Foods with Antibiotic Properties Include foods with natural antibiotic properties like garlic, ginger, and turmeric to help prevent infections and promote healing.
Foods to Avoid
Allergenic Foods Foods that you know you are allergic to should be avoided to prevent any allergic reactions that could interfere with healing. Common allergens include seafood (like shellfish, crabs, and prawns), gluten, and nuts.
Foods that Generate Heat Foods that are known to generate heat in the body, such as excessive red meat, should be limited.
Post-Aftercare
Once your tattoo has fully scabbed and peeled, you can start transitioning to applyingtattoo aftercare creams. This typically happens around the 2-4 week mark, depending on the size and location of the tattoo. Here’s how to transition:
Choose the Right Product Start with a gentle, fragrance-freetattoo moisturizer or a specialized tattoo aftercare cream like Tattoo Goo or Aliens Stuff or any chemical free moisturiser like Nivea Soft Moisturizing Cream or Johnson & Johnson Baby Moisturizer or Rash Cream. To know more about the post aftercare product please red our blog Recommended Tattoo Aftercare Products
For detailed guidance on maintaining your tattoo’s vibrancy and health in the long term, check out our blog on Long-Term Tattoo Care.
Comparison with Other Healing Methods
Dry healing is just one of several tattoo aftercare methods. Here’s how it
Wrap Healing Uses protective films like Dermalize to cover the tattoo, reducing the risk of infection and promoting faster healing. This method can be more convenient but may be less breathable. Read about it in our blog on Wrap Healing Tattoo Aftercare.
FAQs
Is dry healing suitable for all tattoos?
How long does dry healing take?
Can I switch from dry healing to traditional methods?
What if my tattoo feels too dry?
Can I exercise while dry healing?
Dry healing tattoo aftercare is a natural and straightforward method that allows your body to heal your new tattoo without the use of ointments or creams. While it requires diligent care and monitoring, many people find it beneficial for achieving vibrant and long-lasting results. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and remains a piece of art for years to come. Always consult with your tattoo artist if you have any concerns or questions about the healing process.
There is no other tattoo concept and style that requires a careful hand and expert eye quite like a portrait tattoo. The characters in our lives, be they real or created by Hollywood, bear features, lines, expressions, and quirks that are unique to them and them alone. Some of the biggest “tattoo fails” have been the result of a tattooist’s inability to capture such things. Very few are able to perfectly translate a photo or screenshot provided to them, to skin. This is why people put off getting tattoos of character faces, and why some opt out altogether. However, you are ready to move forward with yours. But knowing the importance of picking the right tattooist you have come online to search for a portrait tattoo artist near you. If located in the Vancouver BC area you will find peace of mind that Adrenaline VanCity has you covered.
Adrenaline VanCity has one of (if not the) best Photo-Realism tattoo artists in the region. A Photo-Realism specialist is who you need to find when you desire a portrait tattoo of your favorite character. This specialist employs black-and-grey line work, shading methods, and artisan secrets to deliver a face that looks as if it was magically transported from a photograph, celluloid film strip, or digital file to the surface of one’s skin. It takes many years of training and experience to do it right and meet (and often exceed) client expectations. You can learn more about our downtown Vancouver shop’s Photo-Realism specialist right here, or have a look below at samples of his work. We’re certain that they will inspire yours, and incite confidence that Adrenaline VanCity is the only place to go for your portrait tattoo.
Why Choose Adrenaline When Looking for a Portrait Tattoo Artist in Vancouver
Portrait Tattoo Artist for Famous Characters
A number of people want their favorite fictional characters and famous personalities immortalized (well, for as long as you’re on Earth) via a tattoo. Fictional characters and famous personalities can be more than providers of entertainment and wonder, as some often hold meaning and allow us to express parts of ourselves that “fashion” alone can’t quite manage. Our Photo-Realism tattooist can translate any fictional character or celebrity to skin, as per the following samples of his work.
Completed at Adrenaline VanCity
Portrait Tattoo Artist to Honor Those in Your Life
Portrait tattoos of famous characters and pop-culture celebrities can be fun. However, most people who are looking for a portrait tattoo artist want to honor a family member or someone else who is very dear to their heart. Adrenaline VanCity’s resident Photo-Realism expert will honor them with even greater care:
Completed at Adrenaline VanCity
Ready to get inked by Vancouver’s top portrait tattoo artist? Schedule a FREE consultation at Adrenaline VanCity at your earliest convenience.
Laser tattoo removal is a great tool in the tattoo industry. You may not think of a tattoo removal as working with the industry but it’s a versatile service that has its place in artwork. Laser technicians can work on more skin issues but for the purpose of the tattoo blog I will just be focusing on the removal aspect, by no means is this all encompassing of the laser application world.
How It Works
There are different types of laser machines, but the principle is the same. Tattooing works by depositing ink into the second layer of your skin. When the ink is put in it creates a wound and your immune system rushes to your defense. The first line of defense in the immune system are macrophages. Macrophages act like little Pacmans trying to swallow up the foreign bodies. Their goal is to swallow up the ink and take it away. Unfortunately for our little Pacman macrophages the ink particles are not so small and simple to remove so it takes a really long time, years and years. These little guys are responsible for the fading and gradual expanding of ink in the skin as you age.
Laser tattoo removal speeds up this process by making the ink particles more digestible for our macrophages. The laser penetrates the skin to break up the ink particles and make them smaller so the macrophages can swallow them up and carry them away much faster. The different types of machines, as far as I can tell, break these particles up to different sizes; some are more capable of breaking them up into smaller chunks than others.
The most common laser machine is supposedly the Nd-YAG, this is the same machine you would experience if you were going to get laser hair removal as well. These machines break up the ink particles by using certain wavelengths of light, as well as the speed at which they send the wavelengths of light. This process is called photothermolysis. London Laser puts it best saying, “ For an ink particle to crack, it needs to be heated so that it expands due to thermal expansion. However, this has to be very fast to make sure that parts of the tattoo remain cool. The contrast in cool and hot temperatures is responsible for cracking the particles.”
Applications in the Tattoo Industry
In the tattoo industry laser machines are obviously used to remove tattoos that a person is no longer satisfied with. Most of the time laser has proven to be very successful in removing unwanted tattoos and giving the wearer a clean slate. There are a few things of note to consider when looking into this process. Tattoos are effectively scars that are holding ink, laser removal will remove the ink but once its gone the skin that remains will not be the same as the skin before it was tattooed. That’s not to say that you will still see the distinct scar in the shape of the tattoo, everyone’s skin and everyone’s laser experience will be different; much like how everyone’s tattoo experience is different. If you’re getting a tattoo removed from a poor tattooer there may be excessive scar tissue remaining. Removing tattoos isn’t always just to get rid of them for the sake of getting rid of them.
Black ink is notoriously hard to cover. Coverups are always complex and sometimes even one session of laser removal is enough to aid a coverup and open up your options. Coverups are limited by what is already in the skin, trying to incorporate and smooth enough of the tattoo so that the tattoo being covered blends away is really tricky. It is limited by what’s there to where the darkness in the new tattoo has to be in order to be effective. By doing a laser session and lightening that ink it can open up more options for subject matter in the coverup.
In Conclusion
Laser reaches many other industries and helps with a variety of concerns. In tattoo removal, laser can help you get rid of your unwanted ink or open up options for a coverup. There are however many variables, and like with any procedure an amount of risk. For any further queries definitely contact a laser specialist. It’s crazy how far technology has come, laser is a super interesting process that aids us in being able to provide quality coverups and help you to get rid of maybe that one questionable decision.
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Gatekeeper
Hi there! I’m Taylor, you may know me as Sterling Skull reception, or gatekeeper, or most recently Tater (thanks Chris). I love writing, creating and I love tattoos; so what better way to use my passions than to bring you a personal experience of our studio via a blog! Welcome, please stay a while!
