Years ago, you got a tattoo for the girl you knew you'd love forever. Then she broke your heart. After trying to live with the reminder of your lost love, you've decided to cover it up with something more fitting. So what do you need to do to turn her name into a dragon?
Step 1
Lighten the original. Before you go about having a new tattoo placed on top of an old one you no longer desire, make the tattoo area as fresh as possible by having the old tattoo lightened via laser removal. With only one or two sessions, your old tattoo will be lightened up enough to not show through your new tattoo, even when your new tattoo begins to fade with age.
Step 2
Choose a design. If you don't have a cover-up idea in mind before going under the tattoo needle, you're more likely to wind up with yet another tattoo you will regret. When choosing a new design, avoid portraits or other designs with lots of white space, as this give extra room for old tattoos to seep through. Instead, go with something full of color or black ink that has plenty of movement in the design. It also helps to get a tattoo that is substantially larger than the original, as this ensures the entire unwanted tattoo is covered, preventing people from immediately being drawn to the underlying tattoo you paid to get covered.
Step 3
Pick an artist. Look for someone with lots of cover-up experience. Finding someone nearby who has done lots of cover-up work is as easy as visiting the artists' websites or studios to look at photos of their past cover-up work. You may also want to meet the artist before your appointment to make sure you feel comfortable with her demeanor. (See Sources 1)
Step 4
Get the tattoo. Whereas small and medium-sized tattoos only require one sitting, cover-up tattoos may require more than one appointment. This is to ensure sufficient saturation of the new tattoo to cover up the old tattoo. (See Sources 1)
Step 5
Care for the new tattoo properly. After leaving the tattoo studio, leave the bandage on your new tattoo for no longer than 24 hours. Until the tattoo is completed healed, wash the tattooed area several times a day with mild soap and warm water, pat it dry and apply moisturizer to the tattooed area. If your tattoo doesn't heal within two weeks, consult your physician. (See Sources 3)
Step 6
Don't want to get rid of your tattoo forever? Tattoo cover-up make-up products are now available. With this make-up, you can hide your favorite tattoos in any situation. Essentially, tattoo cover-up make-up makes it possible to keep your tattoos and your job. To find a cover-up make-up that fits your need, contact your dermatologist or your tattoo artist.
Tips and Warnings
- Be sure your original tattoo is well healed before seeking a cover-up tattoo.
- You assume the risk when receiving a tattoo. Tattoo inks are not regulated and even the cleanest shops can put you at risk for transmittable diseases.
Member Comments