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The legacy of American tattoo artist, Franklin Paul Rogers – World Famous Tattoo Ink

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The legacy of American tattoo artist, Franklin Paul Rogers – World Famous Tattoo Ink

Today is the 116th birthday of Franklin Paul Rogers, better known as Paul Rogers, one of the forefathers of American tattooing and pioneer who helped revolutionize the industry. He took it from traditional to modern day – drawing from decades of experience working with masters in the industry to build some of the best tattoo machines in the business.

The legacy of American tattoo artist, Franklin Paul Rogers – World Famous Tattoo Ink

Born on September 9, 1905, Paul Rogers spent his early years working in cotton mills. He discovered the art of tattooing at 21 years old, when he first got inked by Chet Cain who worked with a traveling circus. Cain had given Rogers advice on the art, and two years later, Rogers bought his first tattoo kit, beginning his lifelong career.

While honing his craft, Rogers, who always wanted to travel with a circus and work in sideshows, also trained in acrobatics. In 1932, he got his first sideshow gig, working the carnival circuits as a tattooist in the summers and the cotton mills in the winters. In 1942, Rogers pursued his tattooing dream fulltime.

In 1945, he partnered with fellow legend, Cap Coleman, whom he went on to work with for the next few years. Rogers then collaborated with Lathan Connelly and they opened tattoo studios in Petersburg, Virginia, and Jacksonville, North Carolina. After years of traveling and opening several shops along the way, Rogers shifted focus to a mail-order supply business, Spaulding & Rogers. By the 1970s, he changed gears again and opened the “Iron Factory”, devoting his time to improving tattoo machines and building new ones, used by some of the world’s best tattooists.

Paul Rogers Tattoo

Over his decades-long career, Rogers helped mentor apprentices, guide other artists – even becoming one of the first advocates for female tattooists. His contributions to the industry live on – when he passed, he donated his tattoo collection to the Tattoo Archives, and The Paul Rogers Tattoo Research Center is a nonprofit formed to preserve tattoo history and promote the art worldwide. Today, World Famous Tattoo Ink celebrates Roger’s legacy and the indelible mark he left on the industry. Check out our 6-piece Paul Rogers Ink Set here, inspired by his career and vibrant life.

JO BLOGS: A client’s story- Freedom after hiding for over 40 years. | UN1TY Tattoo Studio

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JO BLOGS: A client’s story- Freedom after hiding for over 40 years. | UN1TY Tattoo Studio

The story behind each client’s scar is a deeply personal one. I would like to share with you this client’s journey of freedom after her scars have been hidden for over 40 years, even from her family and friends.

“I bought my first short-sleeved shirt to be tattooed in!”
JO BLOGS: A client’s story- Freedom after hiding for over 40 years. | UN1TY Tattoo Studio

jo harrison scar cover up tattoo

One thing that surprises every client having a scar cover-up tattoo is how quickly they fall in love with the tattoo. They all embark on the journey desperate to have the tattoo completed, which can often take many sessions. What always amazes them is that even after the first session they feel a lot more comfortable in their skin! Often showing it off before its even complete! A well-designed scar cover-up tattoo can hide the differences in texture of the skin very well.

jo harrison scar cover up tattoo

jo harrison scar cover up tattoo

jo harrison scar cover up tattoo

Finally giving her the freedom to roll up her sleeves again, wear short-sleeved shirts and even to go to the beach with her grandchildren this summer has been such a joy.

Take a visit to my instagram to check out a lovely video of the project.

I feel so blessed to be asked to share such a special journey with my client. Thank you for your trust and dedication, and for allowing me to share your story.

If you are interested in being tattooed by me you will find a lot of useful information in my “FAQ”

"CLASSIC LINE"

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"CLASSIC LINE"

A « Quilin » for Ines… Always good to get one on your side!

"CLASSIC LINE"


How Tattoos Can Bleed Through Cover-ups – AU

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How Tattoos Can Bleed Through Cover-ups – AU

Tattoo cover ups are their own art form. The best cover-ups incorporate the old underlying tattoo into a new design that is indistinguishable. Working an ex’s name into the antlers of an elk or changing a hate symbol into a geometric pattern may sound simple, but it’s rarely easy. Traditional cover-ups require the new tattoo to be larger, often 2–3 times larger, than the old one. The new colours must also be darker to overshadow the old ink. In the case of covering a black tattoo, even a layer of new black on top of the old can often fail to completely hide the old art. A careful look—or sometimes even a casual glance—can usually reveal the old tattoo once the new one has fully healed..

When you first come home with a new tattoo, the ink will be bright and sharply defined. The tattoo will look its best after a few days, once the redness has time to fade but the ink is still fresh. However, it doesn’t take long after that for the colour to start fading slightly, and the sharp line work may become a little fuzzy. There are a number of processes at work here.

The first thing that happens is losing the topmost ink

Tattooing machines place ink in both the dermis and epidermis layers of skin. Ink in the dermis is trapped by scar tissue, making tattoos permanent. But ink in the top layer, the epidermis, will be lost as skin cells in that layer are constantly migrating towards the surface and shed. While it doesn’t happen before your eyes, over the months, all tattoos fade slightly due to the natural behaviour of the epidermis.

There’s even more going on under the surface.

After a few years, some ink may have migrated to other parts of the body. Old ink often settles in the lymph nodes, detectable only by body scans like MRI machines. Some inks naturally oxidise or decay, causing them to change colours.

Some tattoos undergo a process called blowout. This happens when the ink is placed too deeply in the skin. If it reaches the layer of fat cells below the dermis, the ink spreads out and appears cloudy or blurry. Tattoos placed on areas where the skin is very thin, such as the hands and fingers, are especially vulnerable to blowout, but it can occur anywhere on the body.

Covering old tattoos must account for each of these natural skin processes.

The new tattoo must not go too deep, or it will cause blowout. The new ink will undergo the same fading and microscopic migration as the old ink. As a result, most cover-ups look great initially, but over time, the ink settles in such a way that the old tattoo may show through.

Traditional cover-ups must also account for whichever ink is darker being the one that remains visible. Much like colouring on paper with crayons, you can’t cover black or purple with white or yellow. Both pigments will coexist in the same layer of skin, and the darker one will overpower the lighter one. Some artists attempt to cover old ink with multiple layers of light ink, but even this technique usually fades over time, allowing the old design to become visible again.

So what do you do if you want to place a new tattoo on top of an old one?

A skilled cover-up artist can often create a new design that works with the old one, making it difficult for an untrained eye to notice the old tattoo. However, the best cover-up artists will recognise when a cover-up isn’t feasible. If your artist tells you, “I can give you an 8-ball, a black panther, or a solid black geometric shape,” it may be time to consider removal before revision.

Tatt2Away can work with an artist’s new design by removing the problem areas that would otherwise show through. Often, just one or two sessions are all that’s needed to clear enough ink to give the artist the freedom to place any new tattoo design they want.

How Tattoos Can Bleed Through Cover-ups – AU


How Tattoos Can Bleed Through Cover-ups was originally published in Tatt2Away on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.


Read the original article

Bent-back space explorer instagram: rossphillipstattoo

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Bent-back space explorer 

instagram: rossphillipstattoo

Bent-back space explorer 

instagram: rossphillipstattoo

Bent-back space explorer

instagram: rossphillipstattoo

Tattoo Aftercare by Skin Type

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Tattoo Aftercare by Skin Type

Tattoo Aftercare by Skin Type

Introduction

Tattoo aftercare is essential for ensuring that your new ink heals properly and remains vibrant. Understanding your skin type can significantly impact the tattoo healing process and the care your tattoo requires. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate tattoo aftercare tailored to different skin types.

Understanding Different Skin Types

Knowing your skin type is the first step in developing an effective tattoo aftercare routine. Here’s a brief overview of the most common skin types:

Dry skin lacks moisture due to a reduced level of sebum production, which can lead to a compromised skin barrier. This type of skin is characterized by small pores and a rough, flaky texture. It is prone to cracking and irritation, especially when exposed to environmental factors like wind and low humidity. The lack of natural oils can make it difficult for dry skin to retain moisture, leading to excessive scabbing and slower healing of tattoos.

Oily skin produces excess sebum due to overactive sebaceous glands. This skin type often has larger pores and a shiny appearance, particularly in the T-zone area (forehead, nose, and chin). The overproduction of oil can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts, which can complicate the tattoo healing process. The increased oiliness can also create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection during the healing period.

Sensitive skin is characterized by a heightened reaction to various stimuli, including skincare products, environmental factors, and stress. This skin type often exhibits redness, itching, and irritation and can react adversely to ingredients that are generally well- tolerated by other skin types. The skin’s protective barrier is often compromised, making it more susceptible to inflammation and allergic reactions. Sensitive skin requires careful handling and gentle products to avoid exacerbating these conditions during tattoo healing.

Normal skin is well-balanced, with an even distribution of moisture and natural oils. It typically has a smooth texture, small pores, and a healthy glow. Normal skin maintains an optimal pH balance and a robust barrier function, which helps it recover quickly from minor injuries and irritations. This skin type generally heals tattoos well with standard aftercare practices but still requires regular monitoring to ensure the healing process proceeds without complications.

Tattoo Aftercare for Different Skin Types

As discussed, understanding your skin type is crucial for effective tattoo aftercare. Each skin type—dry, oily, sensitive, or normal—requires specific care to ensure optimal healing and maintain the tattoo’s vibrancy. Now let’s dive into recommended tattoo aftercare for each skin type

1.Tattoo Aftercare for Dry Skin

Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within, which supports overall skin health and healing.

Apply a thick, fragrance-free tattoo moisturizer multiple times a day to prevent dryness and cracking. Shea butter or Aquaphor are excellent choices.

Use mild, fragrance-free soaps to avoid further drying out the skin and to maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

2. Tattoo Aftercare for Oily Skin

Wash the tattooed area with mild, non-comedogenic soap to prevent clogging and reduce the risk of acne breakouts.

Heavy products can exacerbate oiliness and lead to breakouts, so opt for lighter tattoo ointments.

Keep an eye on the skin for any signs of irritation or infection, ensuring timely intervention if needed.

3. Tattoo Aftercare for Sensitive Skin

Test new products on a small area before applying them to the tattoo to ensure they do not cause adverse reactions.

Wash the tattoo with mild, gentle soap and avoid scrubbing to protect sensitive skin.

Explore more strategies for managing sensitive skin in our in-depth

4. Tattoo Aftercare for Normal Skin

Use a balanced tattoo moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and support the healing process.

Apply sunscreen to protect the tattoo from UV damage, which can fade the ink and damage the skin.

Wash the tattoo with mild soap and keep it clean to prevent infections and ensure proper healing.

Tattoo Aftercare by Skin Type Matrix

This table provides a quick reference to determine which aftercare method is best suited for your skin type, ensuring optimal healing and long-term tattoo care.

Natural Healing (Dry Healing)

Affected Skin Types

Certain skin conditions require additional considerations during tattoo aftercare. Proper management and understanding of these conditions can significantly enhance the tattoo healing process and the longevity of your tattoo.

Acne-prone skin is characterized by frequent breakouts and an overproduction of sebum, increasing the risk of infections around the tattooed area. The presence of acne can complicate the healing process, making it essential to follow a careful aftercare routine.

We have a comprehensive guide on Tattoos for Acne-Prone Skin that covers everything related to this topic, including whether to get a tattoo, preparation, and aftercare.

Eczema and psoriasis are chronic skin conditions that cause inflammation, redness, and itching. These conditions can lead to flare-ups that may disrupt the healing of a new tattoo, potentially affecting its appearance and longevity.

Explore our extensive guide on Tattoos for Eczema or Psoriasis, which provides in-depth information on managing these conditions before, during, and after getting a tattoo.

Allergic reactions can cause significant irritation, redness, and swelling, impacting the healing process of a tattoo. Individuals with a history of allergies must be particularly cautious to avoid triggering reactions during tattoo care.

For a thorough understanding of Tattoos for Allergic Skin Type, see our comprehensive guide on Allergic Reactions which covers everything from preparation to long-term care.

Diabetic skin is prone to slower healing due to reduced blood circulation and potential complications from high blood sugar levels. Extra care is needed to prevent infections and ensure proper healing of the tattoo.

Our detailed guide on Tattoos for Diabetic Skin offers a complete overview, including considerations before getting a tattoo, the actual tattooing process, and aftercare best practices.

Weather Impact on Tattoo Healing Process

Tattoo aftercare can vary significantly depending on the weather conditions. Different climates pose unique challenges that can affect how well your tattoo heals. Here’s a brief overview of how various weather conditions impact the tattoo healing process:

Cold and dry conditions can lead to cracking and excessive scabbing, slowing down the healing process. Proper moisturization and protection are crucial. Learn more in our blog on Cold and Dry Weather Tattoo Aftercare.

High temperatures and humidity can increase sweating, raising the risk of bacterial infections. Keeping the tattoo clean and dry is essential. Discover detailed tips in our blog on Hot and Humid Weather Tattoo Aftercare.

These conditions are generally easier to manage but still require appropriate post tattoo care to ensure proper healing. Balanced moisturizing and sun protection are key. Read more in our guide on Mild and Moderate Weather Tattoo Aftercare.

Rain introduces additional moisture, which can lead to bacterial infections if not managed properly. Protective wraps and keeping the tattoo dry are essential. Find out more in our blog on Rainy Weather Tattoo Aftercare.

For a comprehensive overview of how these factors impact tattoo healing and the best aftercare practices for each, visit our page on Tattoo Aftercare by Weather.

Recommended Aftercare Methods by Skin Type and Weather

Choosing the right tattoo aftercare process is crucial and can vary depending on your skin type and the weather conditions. This matrix provides tailored recommendations to ensure optimal healing and vibrant tattoo results under different environmental conditions.

This matrix helps you choose the most suitable tattoo aftercare method based on your specific skin type and the prevailing weather conditions, ensuring optimal healing and the best results for your tattoo.

FAQs for Tattoo Aftercare by Skin Type

What is the best aftercare method for dry skin?

Can oily skin use wrap healing for tattoos?

How should sensitive skin be cared for after getting a tattoo?

Is normal skin easy to manage with standard aftercare methods?

Why is dry healing not recommended for dry skin?

What precautions should be taken for tattoos on diabetic skin?

How does cold and dry weather affect tattoo healing?

What are the best practices for tattoo aftercare in hot and humid weather?

Can people with eczema or psoriasis get tattoos?

What should be avoided during tattoo aftercare for sensitive skin?

Conclusion

Proper tattoo aftercare is essential for ensuring that your tattoo heals

beautifully and remains vibrant, especially considering your specific skin type and weather conditions. By understanding the unique needs of your skin—whether it’s dry, oily, sensitive, or normal—you can tailor your aftercare routine for optimal results. Additionally, being mindful of environmental factors like weather can further enhance the healing process. Always consult with your tattoo artist for tattoo care instructions and refer to our comprehensive guides for detailed aftercare tips.

Tattoo Shading Guide for Beginners

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Tattoo Shading Guide for Beginners

Tattoo Shading Guide for Beginners

Shading techniques in tattooing are crucial for adding depth, dimension, and realism to a design. Different shading techniques produce varied effects, allowing tattoo artists to achieve specific artistic goals. Here’s an…

Grape Ape Tattoo | Tattoo Shop

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Grape Ape Tattoo | Tattoo Shop

Grape Ape Tattoo | Tattoo Shop

With the explosion of tattoo culture, there are now more styles to choose from than ever before. From traditional designs to bold modern art, people can find something that perfectly fits their unique style and aesthetic.

Traditional tattoos have seen a powerful surge in popularity recently. Many people look back to the past for inspiration when deciding on their next body art design. With the help of an experienced traditional tattoo artist in Tucson, AZ, you can find a design that meets your needs.

Here are some essential elements all great traditional tattoo designs have in common.

Bold and Black Outlines

Traditional tattoos are well-known for their bold, black outlines. These outlines structure the design and ensure the tattoo remains clear and legible over time. In addition to providing a clear boundary around the design, these lines help create a sense of depth in the tattoo, allowing it to stand out from its surroundings and draw attention to its details.

Traditional tattoos often feature simple yet impressive color palettes and long-lasting pigments that won’t fade over time. Do you want to embrace this tattoo design style? If so, connect with a traditional tattoo artist in Tucson, AZ, today!

Solid Colors

Traditional tattoos often feature a limited color palette, focusing on primary colors like red, blue, and yellow. This is done to ensure the tattoo remains timeless. Bright neon colors may be popular for brief periods but can quickly date a design.

The bold pigments used for these traditional tattoos also mean they’ll last much longer than those featuring flashy colors and shades.

By combining bold black outlines with a traditional color palette, you can create a timeless design that won’t look dated in the future. Our team is here to help you iron out the details of your traditional tattoo design.

Iconic Imagery

Iconic imagery passed down through generations is usually a staple of traditional tattoo designs. An experienced traditional tattoo artist in Tucson, AZ, can use these elements to create a simple and unique piece.

Popular elements of traditional tattoo designs include:

  • Animals: From eagles and tigers to snakes and dragons, animals are a common motif in traditional tattoo designs. These symbols can be used to represent strength, protection, or courage.

  • Flowers: Floral designs are popular choices for traditional tattoos. These vibrant blooms represent beauty, life, and a connection to nature.

  • Skulls: Representing mortality and darkness, skulls are often used in traditional tattoo designs to convey powerful messages about life and death.

  • Traditional Symbols: Traditional symbols such as anchors, swallows, dice, or ships can bring meaning and depth to a tattoo design. These symbols can represent long journeys, protection, or hope.

Whether you’re looking for an animal-themed piece or something more symbolic, Grape Ape Tattoo can help you create the perfect traditional design.

Looking For a Traditional Tattoo Artist In Tucson, AZ?

If you’re ready to get a new tattoo, our team is here to help. It’s time to take action and work with a traditional tattoo artist in Tucson, AZ!

How Dwayne Johnson Is Leaving His Mark on the World!

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How Dwayne Johnson Is Leaving His Mark on the World!

How Dwayne Johnson Is Leaving His Mark on the World!

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is more than a name in the industry. He is a symbol of strength and compassion. Known for his iconic wrestling career and dominating presence in Hollywood, Johnson’s success is evident, but there’s a deeper side to him that makes him a true champion. 

Behind the fame, Dwayne has a mission that goes beyond the wrestling arena and the big screen. His heart lies in making a difference, bringing hope, healing, and empowerment to those who need it most.

From humble beginnings to becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the world, Dwayne’s journey wasn’t without challenges. His honest work ethics, sheer determination, and passion to uplift others have been central to his identity. For him, it has never been just about personal success, it is about giving back, inspiring others, and leaving a legacy that goes far beyond entertainment. His mission to help those in need is at the core of who he is, and this mission took a tangible form with the creation of the Dwayne Johnson Rock Foundation in time.

The Rock Foundation stands as a beacon of hope for children facing serious medical challenges. The foundation focuses on improving the lives of children who are battling life-threatening illnesses by providing strength and support. Dwayne has always believed that no child should have to go through the difficulties of illness alone, and through his foundation, he offers assistance in their recovery. His dedication to these young lives is a witness to his belief in the power of healing and hope.

But Dwayne’s efforts don’t stop there. His foundation’s mission expanded to include educational programs and initiatives aimed at tackling childhood obesity. He recognized the importance of addressing not only immediate medical issues but also long-term health and wellness for children. Through these programs, The Rock Foundation is helping shape the futures of countless kids, ensuring they have the tools and resources they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives. 

With a big heart, Dwayne supports over a dozen different causes. He continues to use his platform to shine a light on issues that often go unnoticed and has proven time and again that being a champion is about more than just personal accolades, it is about using your influence to make a real difference in the world. His belief in giving back is a driving force in everything he does, showing that true strength comes from lifting others up.

How Dwayne Johnson Is Leaving His Mark on the World!

Beyond his humanitarian efforts, Dwayne’s tattoos also tell a story. His tattoo is not just simple ink; it is a strong reflection of his personal journey and values. One of his most well-known tattoos is the bull tattoo, which he originally got during his wrestling days. The bull, or Brahma Bull, became a symbol of his inner strength and strong spirit. The tattoo was recently transformed into something even more meaningful, as Dwayne decided to evolve the tattoo design to better represent who he has become today. The new tattoo is a detailed piece that symbolises his life’s journey, one that includes struggle, growth, and triumph.

How Dwayne Johnson Is Leaving His Mark on the World!

Another one of his significant tattoos is a Maori-inspired tribal tattoo on his chest and arm. This tattoo is a reflection of his Samoan heritage, symbolising family, protection, and his deep connection to his ancestors. The detailed design represents his roots and serves as a reminder of where he came from and the values instilled in him by his culture. For Dwayne, his Samoan tattoo is more than art, it is a tribute to his identity and a way to carry his heritage with him, wherever he goes.

Both of these tattoos express more than just ink on skin, they are indeed a witness to the values that drive Dwayne’s life: strength, heritage, and the power to overcome. They also serve as a reminder that, much like his tattoos, his legacy is something that will remain etched in the hearts of those he has impacted long after the cameras stop rolling. Through his ink, Dwayne tells a story that is both personal and universal, a story of strength, honour, and the importance of staying true to one’s roots.

It is easy to see why so many people look up to Dwayne Johnson. His strong determination to uplift others, his dedication to giving back, and his commitment to staying grounded in his roots have all made him a true champion in every sense of the word. Whether it is through his foundation or his iconic tattoos, Dwayne has consistently shown that being a champion isn’t about titles or trophies, it is about making a lasting impact on the world and the lives of others.

How Dwayne Johnson Is Leaving His Mark on the World!

As he continues to work for different causes, Dwayne proves that true champions wear their stories, their struggles, and their values with pride, both on their skin and in their hearts. His tattoos are a reflection of his strength and the deep connection he feels to his heritage and the world around him. Through his work and his ink, Dwayne leaves a mark that goes far beyond the physical, those that stand as a legacy of compassion, strength, and the belief that we are all capable of making a difference.

We’d yet again spotlight a reminder about champions truly wearing ink for a reason. For Dwayne Johnson, that reason is simple: to tell a story of strength, to honour his roots, and to inspire others to live with purpose and heart.

Michelle -Piercer

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Michelle -Piercer

Michelle Rose is one of our full-time piercing professionals. Enjoyer of sandwiches. Skewers humans for a living. She is in the studio everyday except Thursday.  You can follow her work here at our studio on her IG @mitchpierces (https://www.instagram.com/mitchpierces/).

 

For more portfolio pictures CLICK HERE.

Michelle -Piercer