Tattoo supplies are expensive, here are some methods I have found to cut cost on expenses.
Grape Ape Tattoo | Tattoo Shop
Are you planning to get a traditional Japanese tattoo? If so, you must find an experienced Japanese traditional tattoo artist in Tucson, AZ. After all, you don’t want a subpar tattoo you are embarrassed for others to see.
Here are several crucial steps to prepare for your authentic Japanese tattoo experience. From researching tattoo meanings to finding the right artist, we’ve got you covered!
Research Traditional Japanese Tattoos and Their Meanings
Before embarking on your tattoo journey, take the time to research traditional Japanese tattoos and their rich symbolism. Understanding the meanings behind various motifs and symbols will help you choose a design that resonates with you.
Explore the traditional themes such as koi fish, dragons, cherry blossoms, and samurai. This will help you find the perfect representation of your values and aspirations. You can even combine images and symbols to create something unique.
Choose a Design That Is Meaningful to You
When it comes to traditional Japanese tattoos, selecting a design with personal significance is crucial. Reflect on your values, interests, and life experiences to identify symbols or imagery that align with your identity. Remember, this tattoo will be with you forever, so choosing something that truly speaks to you is essential.
Find an Experienced Japanese Traditional Tattoo Artist in Tucson, AZ
Finding someone with expertise in this style is crucial when searching for an artist to bring your traditional Japanese tattoo to life. Finding talented artists specializing in Japanese traditional tattoos in Tucson, AZ, is possible.
Look for artists with a portfolio showcasing their proficiency in traditional Japanese motifs, linework, and shading. Additionally, seek out reviews and recommendations to ensure their professionalism and skill.
Ensure the Artist Understands Your Vision for the Tattoo Design
Communication is key when collaborating with a tattoo artist. Schedule a consultation with your chosen artist to discuss your vision, ideas, and preferences.
Share any reference images, sketches, or written descriptions that can help them grasp the design you have in mind. By ensuring clear communication, you’ll increase the chances of the artist capturing the essence of your concept.
Discuss the Placement of the Tattoo With Your Artist
The placement of your tattoo is important. Make sure you choose a location that works for you. If you aren’t sure about placement, talk to your artist about the best placement for your design.
Consider factors like body structure, visibility, and future tattoos. The artist’s expertise will guide you toward the most suitable location, ensuring the tattoo’s visual impact and longevity.
Embrace the Beauty of a Traditional Japanese Tattoo
Preparing for a traditional Japanese tattoo is an exciting and deeply personal process. When searching for a Japanese traditional tattoo artist in Tucson, AZ, take the time to research, choose a meaningful design, find an experienced artist, communicate your vision effectively, and discuss placement.
These tips will help you journey towards a beautiful and culturally significant traditional Japanese tattoo you’ll cherish forever.
Maverick Family Spotlight Artist – Maverick Tattoo Mercantile
Hey Maverick community! Strange question for ya’ll (I know weird because I’m not from the south), but have you ever had a ton of vienna sausages hangin from your ceiling? Well if the answer is YES then you probably should be best friends with our spotlight artist for this beautiful month of April.
Meet Craig St Peter! All the way from Kansas City, Missouri, Craig specializes in illustrative blackwork. His work is seriously. gorgeous… and have you seen him?! He has better locks than me! 💇🏻♀️
***Calling out PAUL MITCHELL– you guys should be sponsoring this dude!***
Craig St Peter STATS:
- IG: @deadcrown_
- Style: Illustrative Blackwork
- Shop: DK Eclectic in Kansas, MO
- Height / Weight: Tall enough and fit enough
- Eyes: Twinkling
- Hair: Lucious Locks!
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Craig is also a movie star! If you haven’t seen him in his biggest role yet, check him out staring in Maverick’s very own commercial- HERE!
Keep reading to learn more about Craig and his crazy antics of tattooing!
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Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where can people find you? Social media @’s?
Hey! I’m Craig. I’m a tattooer out of Kansas City, Missouri specializing in illustrative blackwork. Locally, you can find me at DK Eclectic with @thisismyempire and @dankubin. You can find my work on Instagram under the handle @deadcrown_
What do you love about Maverick?
Their pledge for Eco-Friendly products! Their team is constantly hyping us up and the customer service is top notch! (we love ya craig!)
What are your favorite groupings & or Maverick supplies you use while tattooing?
Obviously it’s the tight 03 and 05rl!
The penguin is the Maverick founder’s spirit animal! What’s your spirit animal and why?
My spirit animal is probably a lion. Mostly because I’m a Leo. *hairflip*
Can you describe your first tattoo experience? How old were you? What was it of? Who was the artist?
My first tattoo was a grueling 8 hourish session with my soon to be mentor Tommy. We tattooed my chest for awhile, then I had to leave for classes in college. We came back later that night to finish up and I think I heard color and smelled sounds. 10/10 don’t recommend a long, broken up single day session on the chest for your first go.
Top 3 artists you admire? Can you give us a brief description?
@self123 Simeon Nelson – he’s a color tattoo pink demon and he loves hugs. I love his work and he’s inspired me for years. Thankful to call him a friend.
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@deadmeat Nick is another huge inspiration. His big bold compositions and clean saturated tones are top notch. Plus, he’s a super nice dude. Sometimes I question if he’s a real person.
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@grindesign – Rob was a huge huge reason for me leaping into dots way back when. Our styles are worlds apart but I’ll always give him a nod. I can’t imagine you’re unfamiliar with his work but if so, check him out. He’s a stellar blackwork tattooer.
What are some funny tattoo moments you have?
That’s a tough one to answer. From tattooing crazy stuff on people, to weird convention antics, where do I start? Ah I’ve got one. One time, I think I was out of the shop for a guest spot while working at @alchemisttattoo in Bismarck, ND. When I came back to my room, someone had hung like 15 cans of Vienna wieners from my ceiling. If I remember right, they stayed hung up for a decently long time until one day someone made me worry about one falling off and hitting a client or myself 😂
If you were to choose a band to describe your artwork, which band would you choose and why?
I’d wanna say Kublai Khan but I don’t think my tattoos are that heavy. Maybe The Ghost Inside? They can get a little wild but also can pull at your heart strings. I’d like to think my work is kind of like that. Some can get real wild and dark, but others are fairly pretty and soft.
If you were to win BEST TATTOOER IN THE WORLD, lol, who would you thank and why?
I’d thank God. I’d thank Oprah and Dr Phil. Next would be James, the old local tattoo supply bus driver. I’d probably close with a small song and dance number which I’d be horribly off beat and out of key on. As I tripped off stage, I’d let out a little toot. Those who know me, know it to be true.
Secret hidden talent? What is it?
I can make myself burp on command. I have extreme hitchhiker thumbs so you WILL lose in thumb wrestling. That’s probably about it.
What is your kryptonite?
Color tattoos.
Any person or animal that you would like to trade places with for a day?
Gordan Ramsay.
What book or movie would you recommend everyone read or watch? Why would you recommend that specific one?
The Sandlot, because no better film has ever been made? It’s my childhood wrapped up tightly in a shitty VHS case.
Which state are you located? What do you love most about where you live and why?
Missouri! Boy, I love the nature, the people, the food, the sports, everything. Kcmo is home. Go chiefs! Depending when this drops y’all may or may not be able to talk shit on this comment. (Edit: Y’all can’t talk shit! lol)
What is something weird you do before bedtime?
Drink coffee.
What would you say is the best way to deal with stress that the busy tattoo life can bring on?
Internalize. Shut down. Isolate.
No lol. I’ve found inspiration in other areas. Playing guitar again. Exercising. Those things. Gets my mind off of the day to day stresses and lets me relax.
Who is the most unique client you’ve ever met?
I’ve had a 72 year old woman come on to me, I’ve had a paraplegic fella show me how to twerk, I’ve had non verbal clients. You name it, I’ve probably seen it. I love tattooing for that.
Do the constant pressure and challenge of promoting yourself on social media exhaust you or is it second nature?
A little bit of both. I used to get really caught up in social media. Following a schedule. Making sure I was hash tagging and responding. Now I just kind of share when and what I want to share. Time is spent better with my family and not on my phone. Love y’all!
Tattooed by tattoo artist Leila Jennifer, working in Inked…
Tattooed by tattoo artist Leila Jennifer, working in Inked Celebrity Tattoo Shop, New York, USA.
A Comprehensive Guide to Tattoo Healing Stages
Understanding the various stages of the tattoo healing process is crucial for providing the best care for your new ink. Each stage requires specific attention and care techniques to ensure optimal healing and to prevent complications. To make it simple to understand, we have broken the healing process into four stages:
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Initial Healing Stage
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Scabbing Stage
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Peeling Stage
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Fully Healed Stage
This detailed guide will help you navigate through each stage, providing the necessary tips and advice to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully.
Initial Healing Stage
The initial healing stage starts immediately after you get your tattoo and typically lasts for about one week. During this period, your tattoo is essentially an open wound, which makes it highly susceptible to infections and other complications. Proper care during this stage is critical to ensure a smooth healing process.
This stage involves the body’s inflammatory response to the tattooing process. When the skin is punctured by the tattoo needle, the body reacts by sending white blood cells to the area to prevent infection and start the healing process. This stage is characterized by:
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Hemostasis
Blood clotting to stop bleeding and form a scab.
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Inflammation
Redness, swelling, and warmth as the body sends immune cells to fight potential infections and start tissue repair.
What to Expect in the First 24 Hours
In the first 24 hours after getting your tattoo, you can expect the following:
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Bandaging
Your tattoo artist will cover your new tattoo with a bandage or plastic wrap to protect it from bacteria and other contaminants. This bandage should be kept on for the first few hours or as advised by your artist.
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Oozing and Swelling
It is normal for the tattoo to ooze a mixture of blood, plasma, and ink. This is your body’s natural response to the trauma of the tattooing process. Some swelling and redness around the tattoo are also common.
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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.
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Tightness and Sensitivity
The tattooed area might feel tight and sensitive. Avoid using lotions or creams unless specifically recommended by your tattoo artist.
The appearance of the healing process could be different if you have chosen to go with a film-wrapped healing aftercare technique. For more information on it, please visit our comprehensive guide Film- Wrapped Healing Aftercare.
Scabbing Stage
The scabbing stage typically begins a few days after getting your tattoo and can last for several days to a couple of weeks. This stage is marked by the formation of scabs over the tattooed area as the body continues to heal the skin.
During the scabbing stage, the body is working to repair the damaged skin by creating new tissue. This stage is characterized by:
What to Expect During the Scabbing Stage
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Itching
Mild to moderate itching is common as the skin repairs itself and the scabs begin to harden and flake off. For a detailed guide on how to manage itching during this stage, visit our blog on Managing Tattoo Itching and Peeling.
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Dryness
The tattooed area might feel dry and tight. Keeping the skin moisturized with a light, fragrance-free tattoo lotion can help manage dryness and itching.
The appearance of the tattoo healing process could be different if you have chosen to go with a film-wrapped healing aftercare technique. For more information on it, please visit our comprehensive guide Film- Wrapped Healing Aftercare.
Peeling Stage
The peeling stage usually starts around the end of the first week and can last for up to two weeks. This stage is marked by the shedding of dead skin cells, which can sometimes cause significant itching.
This stage is part of the body’s natural exfoliation process as it replaces old, damaged skin cells with new ones. This stage is characterized by:
What to Expect During the Peeling Stage
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Peeling and Flaking
The tattooed area will begin to peel and flake as the dead skin cells are replaced by new ones. This is similar to the peeling that occurs after a sunburn. For a detailed guide on how to manage itching during this stage, visit our blog on Managing Tattoo Itching and Peeling.
The appearance of the healing process could be different if you have chosen to go with a film-wrapped healing aftercare technique. For more information on it, please visit our comprehensive guide Film- Wrapped Healing Aftercare.
Managing Tattoo Itching and Peeling
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Moisturization
Keeping your tattoo well-moisturized is key to managing itching and peeling. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and to alleviate itching. Apply a tattoo moisturizer in thin layers to avoid clogging the pores. -
Avoid Scratching
Itching is a common and often frustrating part of the healing process, but scratching can damage the tattoo and prolong the healing time. Instead, gently tap the itchy area or apply a cold compress to soothe the skin.
Fully Healed Stage
The fully healed stage of a tattoo can take several weeks to months, depending on various factors such as the size, location, and individual healing process. Even after your tattoo appears healed on the surface, the deeper layers of the skin may still be recovering.
In this stage, the skin has completed its repair process, and the new skin cells have matured. This stage is characterized by:
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Complete Collagen Formation
The collagen fibers have fully formed, providing strength and structure to the new skin.
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Normalization
The skin returns to its normal state, and the tattoo appears settled and vibrant.
What to Expect During the Fully Healed Stage
Post-Healing Care Tips
Proper post-healing care is essential for maintaining the vibrancy and longevity of your tattoo. Here are some key tips to keep your tattoo looking its best:
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Regular Moisturization
To keep your tattoo looking vibrant, continue to moisturize the area regularly with a high-quality, fragrance-free tattoo lotion. This will keep the skin hydrated and help maintain the tattoo’s appearance. For more detailed advice, check out our blog on Long-Term Tattoo Care.
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Sun Protection
UV rays can cause your tattoo to fade over time. Protect your tattoo by applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 whenever it is exposed to the sun. Wearing protective clothing can also help minimize sun exposure. Learn more about maintaining your tattoo’s vibrancy in our blog on How to Keep Tattoos Vibrant.
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Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Steer clear of products containing harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin and affect the tattoo. Opt for gentle, hypoallergenic products designed for sensitive skin. For product recommendations, visit our guide on Recommended Tattoo Aftercare Products.
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Monitor for Changes
Keep an eye on your tattoo for any signs of changes or complications, such as unusual discolouration or texture. If you notice anything concerning, consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional.
By following these post-healing care tips, you can ensure that your tattoo remains vibrant and beautiful for years to come. For a detailed guide on post-healing care, visit our blog on Long-Term Tattoo Care.
Tattoo Natural Fading
It’s important to understand that tattoos naturally fade over time and
will never look exactly the same as they did during the first week of tattooing. This fading process is a normal part of the tattoo’s lifecycle and is influenced by several factors. To know more about why tattoos fade, please read the blog Why Tattoos Fade
It’s essential to embrace the natural aging process of your tattoo. Over time, your tattoo will develop a unique character and become a part of your personal story. Each stage of its aging can reflect different phases of your life and can be appreciated for its own beauty.
Understanding the stages of the tattoo healing process and following the appropriate care techniques for each stage is essential for ensuring your tattoo heals properly and looks its best. From the initial healing stage to the fully healed stage, each phase requires specific attention to detail and care. By adhering to these guidelines and consulting with your tattoo artist, you can enjoy a beautifully healed tattoo that remains vibrant for years to come.
Top Tattoos for The Spiritual Soul (and their meanings) – Xclusive Ink Tattoo
For the spiritual soul, tattoos are not merely skin deep. They can hold significant meaning. Whether simple, ornate, intricate or complex in design, these tattoos can inspire us, help us live more mindfully, engage more fully in the present, and express gratitude in our everyday lives. For the spiritual tattoo lover, an artistic piece with a deeper meaning can truly elevate our mindset, help alleviate anxious thoughts, and enhance our emotional wellbeing.
Top Tattoos for the Spiritual Soul
Mandala Tattoos:
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- Meaning: Mandalas are intricate geometric designs that represent the universe. They are often used as a spiritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, symbolizing unity, harmony, and balance. See more designs by Xclusive’s mandala master artist, Tajah. Or check out the latest designs on Instagram.
Lotus Flower Tattoos:
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- Meaning: The lotus flower is a symbol of purity and enlightenment in various spiritual traditions, including Hinduism and Buddhism. It often represents the journey of overcoming obstacles and achieving spiritual growth. See the latest designs by our artists here.
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Om Symbol Tattoos:
Meaning: In Hinduism, the “Om” symbol represents the sound of the universe and the essence of ultimate reality. It is considered a sacred sound that encompasses all of existence.
Yin-Yang Tattoos:
Meaning: The Yin-Yang symbol originates from Taoism and represents the balance between opposing forces. It signifies the interdependence and harmony of dualities, such as light and dark, male and female, and so on.
Hamsa Hand Tattoos:
Meaning: The Hamsa hand is a symbol of protection in various cultures, including Judaism and Islam. It is believed to bring good fortune, happiness, and protection against the evil eye.
Tree of Life Tattoos:
Meaning: The Tree of Life is a universal symbol in many cultures, representing the interconnectedness of all life. It symbolizes growth, strength, and the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. See more recent designs here.
Feather Tattoos:
Meaning: Feathers are often associated with spiritual ascension, freedom, and a connection to the divine. Different birds’ feathers may hold specific meanings in various cultures.
Third Eye Tattoos:
Meaning: The third eye is a concept in Hinduism and other spiritual traditions, representing inner vision, intuition, and spiritual insight. A tattoo of the third eye may symbolize a heightened sense of awareness.
Sun and Moon Tattoos:
Meaning: The sun and moon represent the balance of opposing forces, such as day and night. In a spiritual context, they may symbolize the dual nature of existence and the continuous cycle of life.
Spiritual Quotes or Mantras:
Meaning: Some individuals choose to tattoo meaningful quotes or mantras that hold spiritual significance to them. These could be excerpts from religious texts, affirmations, personal reflections, numbers or even names.
Need Help with a Spiritual Tattoo Design Idea?
It’s important to note that the meanings of tattoos can vary based on cultural, religious, and personal interpretations. For help choosing your own special design, reach out to our team. We look forward to hooking you up with a spiritual tattoo that best symbolizes your beliefs and values.
Kajal’s Journey Through Ink
At Aliens Tattoo Studio, our motto is simple yet profound: We elevate life through our art. This belief is more than just words—it’s the guiding principle behind every tattoo we create. We don’t just ink skin; we transform personal stories into powerful visual expressions. In this chapter of another Aliens story, we delve into the journey of Kajal, a woman whose tattoos are as layered and intricate as her life.
For Kajal, a Canadian with Indian heritage, tattoos are more than just body art—they’re a form of journaling, a way to capture the chapters of her life story. Each design etched on her skin tells a tale, weaving together moments from her life, her deep connection with family, her reverence for tradition, and her evolution. Her tattoos are like a tapestry, with each thread representing a significant part of her identity.
A Journey Marked in Ink
Kajal was born and raised in Calgary, Canada—a city known for its conservative values, much like Texas in the United States. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in Indian cultural traditions, Kajal was surrounded by the rich heritage of her ancestors. Her upbringing was steeped in the customs and values of her parents’ homeland, yet Kajal’s perspective on life was uniquely her own. While she embraced her heritage with pride, she also forged her own path, blending the old with the new in a way that felt authentic to her.
At the age of 16, Kajal took her first step into the world of tattoos. It was a bold move, especially considering the conservative environment in which she was raised. Her first tattoo was a peacock, a design that symbolized more than just beauty; it represented her deep bond with her family. The peacock was adorned with her sister’s name beneath it, a tribute to the nurturing presence of her mother and the profound connection she felt with her sisters. Convincing her parents to approve of the tattoo was no easy task, but Kajal’s heartfelt explanation won them over. This first tattoo marked the beginning of a lifelong journey, a journey that would see Kajal’s body transformed into a canvas of meaningful art.
Once she started, there was no turning back. Kajal’s collection of tattoos grew over the years, each new design adding to the rich tapestry of her life story. One particularly special tattoo merged her mother’s love of singing with her father’s affection for elephants—a design that beautifully encapsulated the essence of her parents in a single image.
Another small tattoo, an airplane with a heart on one hand, represented her sister in India, a constant reminder of the bond they shared despite the distance. On the other hand, a lotus tattoo echoed her devotion to her culture and religion, symbolizing purity, enlightenment, and the strength to rise above challenges.
A script tattoo reading “That’s okay” served as a daily mantra, reminding Kajal to take life in stride, to embrace its ups and downs with grace and acceptance.
Kajal Called, and Aliens Tattoo Answered
Kajal’s journey eventually led her back to India, where she visited her sister. By this time, her body was already adorned with several tattoos, each one done by male artists in Canada. But this time, Kajal wanted something different.
She was looking for a female Indian tattoo artist, someone who truly understood her beliefs in feminism, someone who could blend modernity with tradition, and who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. Kajal found her perfect match in Sakshi, an award-winning and among the best tattoo artists at Aliens Tattoo.
Before the actual tattooing began, there was the all-important design process. Kajal had a clear vision in mind—she wanted to honor a special gift from her sister: a pothos plant. This plant, with its heart-shaped leaves and its symbolism of perseverance and renewal, held deep significance for Kajal.
She wanted it to be immortalized on her skin, a permanent reminder of the close bond she shared with her sister. Alongside the pothos, Kajal chose a minimalist tattoo of Trajna—a traditional form of body art that held its unique meaning for her.
Kajal and Sakshi hadn’t met before the tattooing session, but when they finally did, they connected instantly. It was an early morning appointment at Aliens Tattoo Studio in Malad, Mumbai, and the two women bonded over shared experiences and mutual respect. Kajal had spent time reviewing all of Sakshi’s work online, and she felt confident that she had found the right artist for this deeply personal project.
Sakshi, in turn, understood the assignment perfectly. She saw the deep bond Kajal shared with the plant; a bond so strong that Kajal even conversed with the plant as though it were a living being. Sakshi took this connection to heart and created a vibrant watercolour tattoo of the plant. The leaf tattoo wraps around Kajal’s ribs, ensuring that this piece of art truly reflects the emotions behind it.
Embracing the Heritage
Kajal’s second tattoo paid homage to her roots. Living far from her origins, she yearned to express her identity visibly. She chose a Trajna—a traditional form of body art originating from Rajasthan and Gujarat, often used to signify cultural identity and spiritual beliefs. These intricate designs, featuring bold lines and symmetrical patterns, have been a part of Indian heritage for centuries, symbolizing protection, strength, and connection to one’s roots.
With Sakshi hailing from Rajasthan, it felt like a cultural reunion. In Kajal’s words, Sakshi felt like a cultural cousin, making this experience at Aliens Tattoo Studio all the more special and meaningful. The Trajna tattoo became a visible symbol of Kajal’s deep connection to her heritage, a piece of her identity she could carry with her wherever she went.
Kajal’s advice to those considering tattoos reflects her thoughtful nature. She emphasizes the importance of reviewing an artist’s work and connecting with their vibe before committing. This careful consideration mirrors her approach to decision-making.
A Kind Spirit with a Fierce Heart
Kajal’s tattoos are more than just designs; they’re expressions of her blended identity as a third-culture kid. Merging her Indian roots with her Canadian upbringing, her ink tells a story of both kindness and strength. She describes herself as a sweet and kind soul with a hint of fierceness, and we say Amen to that! More power to you, Kajal!
Kajal’s advice to those considering tattoos reflects her thoughtful nature. She emphasizes the importance of reviewing an artist’s work and connecting with their vibe before committing. This careful consideration mirrors her approach to decision-making—thoughtful, deliberate, and deeply personal.
Kajal’s journey with Aliens Tattoo is a testament to the power of ink in capturing life’s most meaningful moments. At Aliens Tattoo Studio in Mumbai, we don’t just create tattoos—we craft your story, turning your personal experiences into art that lasts a lifetime. Ready to share your journey with the world? Let us help you bring your story to life, one tattoo at a time. Come visit us and start your chapter in ink.
Tattoo Aftercare Instructions | The Fall
Congratulations! You’ve taken the leap and decided to get a tattoo. You feel elated, happy, and a little (or very) badass. However, getting a tattoo is no walk in the park for your skin. Aftercare is a key component of ensuring your tattoo looks amazing and your skin recovers appropriately. In this article, we’re going to give you detailed tattoo aftercare instructions you should follow – no matter if it’s your first tattoo or your tenth!
New Tattoo, Now What?
Although you’re probably over the moon the minute you leave the tattoo studio, a new tattoo is a huge compromise. Aside from having it be a part of who you are and your personal image, tattoos require love, care, and hygiene measures to be followed. After all, you don’t want your beautiful new tat to turn into an infection, do you? To avoid this – and to set your tattoo up for success – aftercare is essential.
How to Take Care of Your Tattoo
The First 48 Hours
Immediately after your tattoo is finished, your tattoo artist will cover your new piece in a thin layer of petroleum jelly and a bandage. They may also apply a protective medical-grade patch (such as Saniderm) to ensure your tattoo can breathe without letting any bacteria in.
If your artist uses a bandage, remove it after 24 hours and wash the tattoo gently with antimicrobial soap and water. Pat dry or allow to air dry – never rub your tattoo with a towel. This may lead to irritation and if the towel isn’t sterilized, can end up leaving grime, bacteria, and lint on your skin. Apply an antimicrobial ointment and cover again if needed.
Be careful and don’t sleep on your tattoo. If you got a back tattoo, sleep on your stomach. If you have a left arm sleeve, sleep on your right side. Avoid unnecessary pressure and keep the skin as free as possible of any weight or friction. Also, try to wear loose-fitting clothes that won’t rub against your new ink in rodder to protect it as much as possible.
If you are using Saniderm, your artist will tell you when you need to remove it. The skin will start to “ooze” and “peel”, creating a small bubble of liquid inside the patch. Don’t worry, this is completely normal. And this liquid will actually keep your skin moist, protecting it at the same time. It looks a downright mess, but trust us, and don’t remove the patch. If your patch becomes so full of liquid that it starts to creep towards the edges, then it might be time to remove it. We recommend doing it in the shower and taking your sweet time so that you don’t pull or snag your skin. Be extra careful!
After removing the patch, you will follow the same process we described above. Clean your tattoo with antimicrobial soap and apply an antimicrobial moisturizer or ointment to keep it moist. This will last around 2 to 4 weeks in total.
Other care measures include avoiding sunlight exposure for around 2 weeks. Wear physical sunscreen during the day or use bandages or clothing to cover up the tattoo area if you are going to be exposed to sunlight.
Also no swimming and no sweating (sorry, gym rats). A tattoo is the same as a puncture wound – or in fact, thousands of puncture wounds. Exposing it to bacteria (like the ones found in a pool or at a gym) is a sure recipe for infection. Also, sweating generates bacteria in the body, and weight lifting can warp your tattoo if you aren’t cautious in the first few weeks. Talk to your tattoo artist if you’re physically active to discuss when you can be expecting to return to your workout routines.
We also don’t recommend drinking, partying, or submitting your body to any excess. This is because, according to Byrdie, tattooing puts a strain on your immune and lymphatic systems, which will be working hard to heal your new ink. Taking it easy can help improve the rate of recovery and get your tattoo healed in less time.
The First Week
You will continue cleaning your tattoo and applying moisturizer several times a day. Making sure it stays both clean and hydrated is key to recovery.
During this time, your tattoo will start to scab, develop hard layers, and “peel”. Never, ever, pick, scratch, or peel it. You could trigger an infection (dirty fingernails pushing bacteria inside the open wounds) or you could end up removing the ink altogether. Definitely not something you want. Let the scabs fall naturally. We know, it looks gross, but that’s the way it needs to be.
After That?
Tattoos can take around 6 weeks to heal. In some cases, that timeframe can extend to even 6 months. The more careful you are, the more you follow your tattoo artist’s instructions to a tee, the better your recovery will be.
Hygiene and hydration will be your tattoo’s best friends. Avoiding sun exposure and using loose clothing, its second best friend.
Also, don’t shave until the skin is fully healed. Shaving can remove the top layer of skin, exposing the open wounds and even removing a bit of ink. Remember: don’t scratch, pull, or pick at your skin.
Tattoo Aftercare Products You Will Need
After antimicrobial soap, our most recommended products are tattoo aftercare lotions, like PurTect, or fragrance-free lotions like Lubriderm. PurTect is an innovative tattoo aftercare product formulated by experienced chemists, biologists & skincare experts. It can help reduce irritation, swelling and keep redness down. It’s a great option to start with because it lubricates and moisturizes the skin while also cleaning and soothing.
It also has a unique combination of essential skin nourishing Vitamins A and E, plus moisturizing Squalane, and the highest grade of pharmaceutical-grade Petrolatum help PurTect create a protective and breathable film barrier without clogging pores, allowing the skin to breathe as it heals.
Lubriderm, on the other hand, is a fragrance-free lotion that will replenish and moisturize dry skin. It’s fortified with Vitamin B5 and has a non-greasy finish. It’s great for continuing your tattoo care in the weeks leading up to your recovery.
If you prefer ointments to moisturizers, Aquaphor might be the better choice. Different from a lotion or cream, this multi-purpose ointment protects and soothes extremely dry skin, chapped lips, cracked hands and feet, minor cuts and burns, and many other skin irritations – which makes it fantastic for tattoo recoveries!
We also recommend buying a few spare sheets of Saniderm – just in case you need to remove yours before the necessary amount of days and need to replace it for protection.
If your tattoo is hurting, itching, or burning (but without showing signs of infection), then a numbing cream like Dr. Numb might work to ease the pain. These creams are also used before getting your tattoo done to make the pain more bearable.
The Best Tattoo Aftercare Advice We Can Give You
Our advice sums up to this: stay consistent and be patient. Tattoo aftercare is extremely important to guarantee your ink lasts you for a long time. It’s also crucial for recovery and in order to avoid infections. Follow the instructions laid out by your artist, keep your tattoo clean, wash your hands before touching it, and don’t forget to moisturize and apply sunscreen. The rest will take care of itself!
Also, if at any point you believe that your tattoo has become infected, isn’t healing properly, or something else has happened, consult your doctor.
Conclusion
Tattoos are an open wound and should be treated as such. Care for them, keep it clean, and wait for your skin to heal and recover while you enjoy your new inked look. Also, while you wait… why not start looking for your next tattoo? Book your next tattoo session with one of our talented artists today and start getting your second, third, or twentieth tattoo!
Achieving Extraordinary Color Realism with Damien Wickham – World Famous Tattoo Ink
Recently Tattoo Life did an interview with the awesome Australian tattoo artist, Damien Wickham. In the interview, they gave us an amazing shout out and now we want to give a shout out back!
Damien creates amazingly detailed, vibrant tattoos of some of our favorite familiar faces, including Deadpool, Alice Cooper, Cat Woman, and many more! He was asked why he chooses World Famous Tattoo Ink and this was his answer:
“I discovered World Famous Ink at the Atlantic City Tattoo Convention. I needed some white so my good friend Joey Tattoo said hey try some “White House”. It blew my mind how easy it was to use and how no blood seeped through and it seemed easy to keep clean when wiping another colour over the top of it. I had a cool piece on the Sunday of the show so I went and purchased all the colours involved for that piece and I won Best of Show. Since that day I have only used World Famous Ink. I could not ever go back to anything else. I love the brand and every person involved with the company. I definitely feel a part of a family when I am with them at conventions and other events.”
More about Damien:
He joined the tattoo industry in 2008. Before becoming a tattoo artist he worked in construction and the meat industry, which he credits for providing him with a strong work ethic that he maintains today. His style mainly focusing on color realism, with fine lines and intriguing details that make every piece look crisp and clean. He has an eye for color identification, explaining that it’s crucial to find the exact color you need to really bring an idea to life. Find out more about Damien Wickham by checking out the interview with Tattoo Life!
We love seeing artist’s feedback on World Famous Tattoo Ink. Do you have a favorite ink or set? Share your experience below!
