LETS TALK COVER-UPS!
Let’s face it—not all tattoos age well. Whether it’s a spontaneous home job, your ex’s name, or just something that doesn’t vibe with you anymore, we’ve all been there. So, what’s next? Do you go for laser removal, a cover-up, or maybe even a full blackout? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered (pun intended) in this blog.
At Meiji Studio, we’re lucky to have experts in both laser removal and tattoo artists who specialize in cover-ups and blackout pieces, so you're in good hands!
Your Options: What’s the Best Choice?
First things first: Why do you want to get rid of your current tattoo? Maybe you’re over tattoos in general, or you don’t like the placement anymore. Maybe it was a quick decision you now regret. Whatever the reason, here’s a rundown of your options.
Laser Removal
If you're looking to completely remove a tattoo, laser removal is a solid choice. It’s the way to go if you want to start fresh.
Does Laser Removal Hurt?
We get asked this all the time—Does laser removal hurt? And the honest answer is... yes, it does. But it’s pretty quick, and there are ways to make it more bearable.
Phil, our laser tech, uses the Cryo Zimmer—a cooling device that helps numb the skin and reduce pain during treatment. We can also use numbing creams to make the process even more comfortable without messing with the laser’s effectiveness.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
The number of sessions depends on a few things: the age of the tattoo, how well your skin’s holding up, and the darkness of the ink. In rare cases, tattoos can’t be fully removed—especially those done with non-professional inks, like paint from a DIY job.
On average, laser removal takes around 5-10 sessions to get the job done.
Cover-Ups: A New Chapter for Your Ink
If you’re still into tattoos but want to change up your current piece, a cover-up might be the way to go. Cover-ups are awesome because they give you the chance to rework that old ink into something fresh and new.
What Should I Know Before Getting a Cover-Up?
Cover-ups are usually bigger and darker than the tattoo you're hiding, but that’s the key to making sure the old design is totally covered. Sometimes, your tattoo might need to be lightened first (which can be done with 3-4 laser sessions) to give the artist more flexibility with the new design.
One important thing to keep in mind: choose an artist who’s experienced with cover-ups! No one wants to end up with a cover-up that needs another cover-up, right? Look at their portfolio to see their past work and make sure they’ve got the skills to pull it off.
Blackouts: Bold and Beautiful
Blackout tattoos are super trendy right now, and they’re a fantastic alternative if you’re going for a full transformation. Whether it’s a bold solid block of black or something more intricate with patterns, blackout tattoos really make a statement.
What’s Involved with Blackout Tattoos?
These tattoos tend to cover a larger area, so aftercare is especially important. Big tattoos are essentially open wounds, so it’s crucial to follow your artist’s aftercare instructions to avoid any issues.
Another thing—make sure you’re working with someone who specializes in blackout tattoos. These tattoos can cause more swelling, and there’s a slightly higher risk of scarring and infection, so you want an artist who knows the ins and outs of this style.
If you’re thinking about a blackout piece, Jade at Meiji Studio is the expert you want to talk to. She’s mastered the craft, so book a consultation with her today!
So, if you are ready to take the next steps in giving your old tattoos some new life, talk to the Meiji Team today! Submit a booking inquiry and we will refer you to the artist we believe is the best fit for the job!
