Covering up tattoos: A guide for men

Understanding cover-up challenges

Covering up a tattoo isn't just about layering ink; it involves understanding skin tone, existing tattoo color & density, and the artist’s skill. Darker tattoos often require more sessions and larger cover-up designs to fully conceal.

Popular cover-up styles for men

• Blackwork: Solid black shading is incredibly effective at concealing previous artwork. Tribal patterns or abstract designs work well with this style.
• Neo-Traditional: Offers a balance of bold lines and intricate details, allowing for creative compositions that can mask underlying tattoos.
• Realism: A skilled artist can use photorealistic techniques to create stunning cover-ups, often incorporating elements from the original tattoo into the new design.
• Watercolor: While more challenging, watercolor styles can create a softer, artistic look when covering darker or busier tattoos. Requires an experienced artist.

Important considerations

• Size: The cover-up needs to be significantly larger than the existing tattoo to completely obscure it.
• Color Palette: Darker colors generally work best for concealing lighter inks, but a skilled artist can strategize based on your specific situation.
• Artist Selection: Choose an artist with extensive experience in cover-ups. Review their portfolio and discuss your goals thoroughly.

Beyond the design: Aftercare is crucial

Proper aftercare significantly impacts healing and how well the cover-up ages.