Tattoo Innovations – From Medical Alerts to Bioelectric
Medical Alert Tattoo
Tattoo Innovations – Medical Alert Tattoos and More
What’s the future of tattoos? There are innovative ways tattoos are being used, including medical alert tattoo and smart tattoos that monitor health.
Tattoos have come a long way since Sailor Jerry was inking pinup girls, hearts, dice, and anchors on servicemen who were enjoying shore leave. Today, over half of American women (58%) have a tattoo. Tattoo enthusiasts spend over $3 billion each year in the U.S. on new, colorful designs to decorate their skin.
The popularity of tattoos shows no sign of lessening. In fact, developments in the industry mean that we could be seeing some incredible innovations. Read on to find out about the future of ink!
Smart Tattoos
Even if you don’t use one yourself, you’re probably aware of the popularity of “wearables.” Wearables are clothing, watches, jewelry, and other accessories that track data about the wearer’s health. Wearables can monitor and record one’s heart rate, blood pressure, calories expended, and more.
As with any technology, however, smart watches and wristbands have their drawbacks. They’re battery-powered, so they need to be recharged often. They must also get fitted with a new battery when the old one wears out.
They can also be temperamental and inconsistent. As “smart” as they are, they do not seamlessly integrate with the wearer’s body.
Researchers from Harvard University and MIT are working on a solution in the form of tattoo ink. Biosensitive inks react to the body’s interstitial fluid, which surrounds cells within the bloodstream. Depending on the conditions of this fluid, the tattoo will actually change color.
A green ink becomes darker as the body’s level of sodium rises, indicating dehydration. Another ink changes from green to brown as glucose concentration increases. This could someday be a boon to diabetics.
These inks aren’t yet ready to be shipped to tattoo artists near you, however. They have gone through testing on pig skin, but require more research before they can be tried on human patients.
Medical Alert Tattoos
Most people who opt to get tattoos choose their designs based on aesthetic appeal. Medical alert tattoos perform another role: they can be useful in the event of an accident or other dangerous situation.
Patients with Type 1 Diabetes, asthma, or life-threatening food allergies are increasingly turning to tattoos to communicate their medical issues. Medical alert tattoos eliminate the patient’s need to wear a clunky, unattractive bracelet or necklace. They are easier to spot than a wallet card and guaranteed to be with the patient at all times.
Unfortunately, medical alert tattoos aren’t regulated or standardized. Emergency responders aren’t trained to look for these tattoos. There is no agreed-upon standard for size, design, or location on the body.
If you are considering a medical alert tattoo, choose one that incorporates the recognizable medical alert symbol. It should also use clear lettering to indicate your disease or condition. It’s also smart to wear your bracelet or continue to carry your wallet card, just in case.
As far as placement, the best site is on your left wrist or forearm. This is where medical alert bracelets are generally worn — and where emergency responders will look first.
Haptic Feedback Tattoos
Do you feel naked when you don’t have your smartphone on you? Guess what — cellphone maker Nokia is developing technology that will take the notion of connectivity one step further.
Haptic feedback technology tattoos have the ability to link to your smartphone. When the phone rings, the tattoo responds and creates a physical sensation. Imagine if every time you get a phone call, a spot on your arm tingles.
Just like your phone, a haptic tattoo would also indicate an incoming text, social media notification, or email. To dismiss the notification, you simply scratch your skin as though scratching an itch.
Haptic feedback tattoos are still in the development phase. In other words, it’s too soon to get excited about (or terrified by) this technology.
Glow in the Dark Tattoos
Do you work for a conservative company, but spend a lot of nights in clubs or at raves? A glow in the dark tattoo might be a good choice for you. These use UV (ultraviolet) ink that can only be seen under black light.
Glow in the dark tattoos aren’t entirely invisible in the daytime. A sharp-eyed observer will see the scar. The color, however, isn’t visible in daylight or traditional lighting. It only becomes apparent in black light.
Vegetable-Based Temporary Tattoos
Have you ever had a lover’s name tattooed on your bicep, only to regret it when the inevitable breakup occurs? Tattoo removal is incredibly expensive, painful, and time-consuming. Thanks to researchers, truly temporary tattoos (that don’t come out of a gumball machine!) could well be an option very soon.
So-called combustible tattoos utilize a vegetable-based ink. The ink is stored in microcapsules and can be easily and painlessly removed by a laser. This ink, if commercially available, would make it easier for the commitment-phobic to get a tattoo.
Ready to Get Your Own Medical Alert Tattoo?
Technology is taking the ancient art form of tattooing in some remarkable new directions. It’s pretty incredible to think that our descendants might be storing their medical information, communicating with others, or even viewing films right there on their skin.
Even though most of the tattoo tech discussed in this article isn’t yet available, there are still many different options for getting a tattoo today. Whether you want an old-school skull, a realistic portrait, a Japanese design, or something cutting edge like a trash polka tattoo, we can turn your inky dreams into reality. Contact Skin Factory Tattoo today!
Or, if you’re looking for further information and tattoo inspiration please feel free to browse our blog.
Stop by our Maui Tattoo Shop or Henderson Tattoo Shop
15 Beautiful Ideas for Realism Tattoos
15 Beautiful Ideas for Realism Tattoos. If you enjoy the look of realism tattoos, you’ve come to the right place. Here are 10 beautiful ideas that really bring the style to life!
Whether or not you have gotten a tattoo before, chances are that you have at least thought about it. Though the practice has been around for millenniums, the art form has really taken off in the modern day.
Recently, tattoos have even begun to be more accepted in the workplace.
Perhaps you have considered getting one, but you want the tattoo to look pretty much exactly like the image after which it is fashioned. This is called the style of realism tattoos, and there are many truly elegant options for you to consider.
Listed below are fifteen beautiful ideas for you.
Family Members or Loved Ones
One of the many reasons someone like yourself might consider getting a realistic-looking tattoo is because of its meaning. You are not alone – 43% of tattooed people think that having a personal significance is important.
So, what (or who) means a lot to you? A photo-realistic tattoo is great for people that you care about in your life. Have them permanently remembered in this style of tattoo to truly capture their essence forever.
Favorite Pets or Animals
Another common meaningful idea for realism tattoos involves your cherished pets. Realism is a great way to capture any kind of animal, so why wouldn’t you consider getting a tattoo of your fur-baby?
Significant Historical Figures
A realistic image of a human’s face or physique is particularly difficult to draw, and it’s even more difficult to tattoo. Nevertheless, it’s common to prefer tattoos of people in the style of realism to other popular tattoo styles.
If you find a tattoo artist that you can trust with such details, a realistic portrait of your favorite historical figure could end up being a very beautiful piece.
Navigational Instruments
Though realism isn’t the oldest style of tattoo, there are still certain images and items that are considered to be traditional. If you want to blend the modern style with a classic object, think about navigational tools.
It’s easy to think of old-fashioned sailors with tattoos, so imagine how vintage you would feel with a tattoo of their traditional tools. These items would include compasses, maps, or even telescopes. Many people associate these navigational tools with the “journey of life,” so the meaning for one can be as layered as you want it to be.
Timepieces
Another traditional tattoo to consider is a watch or a clock. Timepieces are also part of navigation, but there is more of an element of family ties with this one.
Think about how watches are passed down through the generations. Maybe you have one within your family – this would be perfect as a meaningful, realistic tattoo.
Favorite Celebrities
Many people capture their favorite modern celebrities in the style of realism tattoos. These could be artists, actors, or even sports athletes.
Flowers or Plants
A more natural approach to realism tattoos is to consider your favorite plant or flower. This is more of a feminine approach to a tattoo, but it would truly make a beautiful image.
A Close-Up Photo of an Eye
There is a trend that is becoming more popular within every style of tattoo. People seem to like the idea of having an enlarged eye tattooed on them.
You can get as creative as you want with this idea. There could be color, tears, or even light glinting off of the eye, and a proper realism tattoo artist would do a great job of perfectly capturing the details.
Jewels and Jewelry
Realism tattoos do well for images that play with and capture light. Think about the glint of light off of a shining jewel, and you have yet another great idea for your realism tattoo.
Pieces of Art
Tattooing is an art form which has the power to capture other art forms. If you have a favorite sculpture or painting, odds are that it would be both a meaningful, relevant, and detailed tattoo.
Talk to your tattoo artist to see if he or she is familiar with the piece before getting started on it.
Scenic Landscapes
For a larger piece, consider one of your favorite natural landscapes. Snowy mountains, calm beaches, or flowered meadows are all great ideas for realism tattoos.
Though they would be ornate and detailed, the simplicity of the concept would be very pleasing to the eye.
Movie or Television Scenes
Another larger idea for realism tattoos has to do with the modern art form of film. It’s okay if you’re really into a certain television series or movie because there is a way to make that a permanent part of your physique!
Musical Instruments
If you are a musician of some sort, you probably have a very strong connection to your preferred instrument. To eternalize the importance it has had within your personal (and maybe professional) life, think about getting a photo-realistic tattoo of it.
Realism Tattoos of Your Internal Organs
This might sound a little too much gore for you, but realism tattoos of internal organs are actually starting to be fairly popular. These images sometimes appear as though the skin has been peeled back to reveal an internal organ such as the heart or a section of lung.
Sometimes, it’s the bones, tendons, and tissues underneath that appear to be “revealed.”
Historical Buildings
The last idea for realism tattoos is also another art form. Architecture has a historical and cultural importance throughout time.
If there is a certain building that you think is worth to tattoo on your body, by all means, go for it! You deserve to have whatever image you want tattooed, so don’t hold back with your creativity in this department.
We know how important it is to get your tattoo just how you want it. If you want a realism tattoo or any other style of tattoo, we can assure you that the professional artists we employ will be able to exactly meet your expectations.
We encourage you to reach out to us today if you are interested in getting a tattoo. You can contact us here.
The History of Japanese Tattoo Designs
Japanese tattoo designs
The history of Japanese tattoo designs is long and rich. Learn more about this stunning style, some classic designs, and the origins of both!
Three in ten American adults have tattoos, and out of that number, seven out of those ten have more than one. Tattoos are no longer considered taboo, a fad, or even a trend.
To the person who wears them with pride, they’re a symbol of their personal story. A testament to all of the love and hardship life has thrown at them.
In a way, they’re battle wounds. They are an autobiography. A way to show art appreciation without uttering a word on the topic.
If you want to tell your own story with ink, why not look into Japanese tattoo designs?
Japan has a rich history filled with symbolism, honor, and mythology. Keep reading to learn more about Japanese tattoo designs, what they mean, and how they can help tell your story.
1. Dragons
Japanese style dragons are a popular choice. While European dragons were always cruel and angry and more concerned with accumulating wealth and destroying villages, Asian dragons were much different.
It doesn’t matter what part of the world the story originates from, dragons represent power, authority, and respect.
For Japanese tattoo designs, dragons symbolize wisdom and strength. In Japanese history, dragons were benevolent guardians who used their strength to help make humans better people.
If this sounds familiar with your story, talk to your local artist to see if they can help you map out the right dragon tattoo idea for you.
Japanese style dragon tattoos are often the main part of arm and leg sleeves as well as large chest and back pieces. If you’re looking to take up a lot of canvas with your ink, a dragon tattoo could be right for you.
2. Koi
Are you determined to be successful in life? Do you have the strength to make things happen?
Something with koi fish might be one of the best Japanese tattoo designs for you.
Some legends claim that Koi swim up rivers and climb waterfalls. They are heralded as the brave fish, the aquatic versions of samurai. They built strength by going against the current and as legend has it, the fish would become dragons if they were strong enough to make it to the top of a waterfall.
We all have our own battles that life throws at us. Some of us refuse to go with the flow. We believe we can create our own destiny by forging our own path in the world.
If your life sounds something like this, incorporate these Japanese tattoo designs.
Koi are often depicted as brightly colored with tattoos. So if you want something with lots of color, this is a great option.
3. Cherry Blossoms
The cherry blossom tree, when in full bloom, is one of the most beautiful natural things on earth. It’s so beautiful that Sakura, which means “cherry blossom” in Japanese, is one of the most popular names for girls in the country.
But why do they show up so often in Japanese tattoo designs?
The blossoms, in Japanese culture, represent the beauty of life and just how fragile it can be. Why? Because the trees are only in full bloom for a few weeks.
If you have a birthday, anniversary, or some other life-changing event that’s in April, cherry blossoms are a relevant tattoo idea.
Maybe you need a daily reminder that life is short and you should live in the present and be mindful of the world around you as it is. For you, this idea is perfect.
We, as Americans, typically don’t spend enough time thinking about and appreciating what we have for however long we have it. Life is filled with plenty of good and bad.
This tattoo idea may be able to help you with self-reflection and appreciating the good in your life.
Cherry blossom tattoos are frequently seen with Japanese style wind swirls to further push the idea of brevity in life and beauty. You will also see them against dreary and black backgrounds, symbolizing the small bright spots of good in an otherwise depressing world.
4. Demon Masks
This is often referred to as an oni mask. Oni are demons, though the literal translation is “troll” or “ogre”. All supernatural creatures in Japanese folklore are referred to as demons, even the ones associated with good.
Some oni carry out punishment of the wicked. Some believe they are the guardians of the underworld, which is why they are typically found around the dead and the dying or in places where catastrophe is about to happen.
If you’re a spiritual person without a religion to call your own, the oni mask is a great idea for your ink.
These classically have a lot of color like the koi tattoos and are also incorporated into large pieces like the dragon tattoos.
5. Wind and Waves
Wind and waves are often used in Japanese tattoo designs as filler. Filler is anything that is basically considered a backdrop to your main piece, such as the koi or dragon.
Wind and wave tattoos are known for their beauty and the swirling art styles used to create them. They are usually black or blue (to represent the sky or water), and the color isn’t what really matters.
The key to quality wind and waves are the shading. If you’re a shading fanatic, no matter what Japanese tattoo designs you’re after, ask about including these as part of your filler work.
They also have some symbolism all their own. Nature is certainly a force to be reckoned with and these tattoos help to symbolize and accentuate strength, fluidity, and movement.
Japanese Tattoo Designs – The Takeaway
What matters way more than symbolism is choosing a design you love. It’s going to be on your body for a long time.
You also want to vet your artist. Check out their portfolio and chat with them for a bit. You want someone who is skilled and makes you feel comfortable in their chair.
If you’re in Las Vegas or Henderson, Nevada, or on Maui, come in and chat with us. We’d love to hear from you. You can also contact us today on this site to book an appointment or schedule a meeting.
99 Luftballons: 8 Cool Trash Polka Tattoo Ideas
Are you into this cool German tattoo style? Here are some great trash polka tattoo ideas to get you started on your next piece of ink.
Are you looking to get a new tattoo but don’t know what to get? If so we recommend getting the crazy yet beautiful trash polka tattoo style.
This style is eyecatching and unique. You will find that your trash polka tattoo isn’t like any other tattoo on this planet. To see some trash polka tattoo ideas keep reading below.
What Is Trash Polka?
Trash polka tattoo ideas are a style of tattoo that originated in Germany. This style includes designs that are chaotic like a collage that uses red and black ink which is the trademark of traditional trash polka tattoos.
Trash polka tattoos also include splatters and sometimes smudges of other colored ink around the main design. Words and phrases can even be found in some polka trash tattoo ideas.
Overall the designs of this tattoo style are abstract and contain elements of realism. There’s a lot of juxtaposition within these tattoos making them beautiful yet confusing.
1. Anarchy
Anarchy may be one of the few trash polka tattoos that don’t have a confusing meaning behind it. When looking at anarchy polka trash tattoo ideas it’s easy to see the letter “A” with a red circle around it, indicating the tattoo’s theme.
Anarchy collages can be a mash of cityscapes or even specific buildings or places. Above the cityscape, you can add a soldier with a gas mask to really bring the masterpiece together. Use the red ink in your tattoo around the black collage to have the appearance of blood splatters to make your design really pop.
2. Juxtaposition
Juxtaposition is when two things are placed together or near each other and there is a contrasting effect. This can be easily done with trash polka tattoos to create a unique piece that catches the eye.
In every trash polka tattoo, you see you may notice that there is always a lot of going on. This art style is very busy, but you can use this to your advantage.
If you can’t decide on what type of trash polka tattoo to get then try creating one that juxtaposes realism, collage, and abstraction. This will make for a tattoo that has a creepy image but it will be a beautiful piece of art.
3. Vixens
Tattoos of women are common, so if you’re looking to get a tattoo of a women’s face or body why not change up the style to make it one of a kind? In trash polka tattoos vixens are common.
These vixens take a dark turn with the black and red ink and even sometimes have skulls morphed into their face or around them. You can add a red rose to make your vixen more feminine.
4. Realistic Yet Abstract
Since trash polka tattoos are known for having a mix of elements why not design your tattoo based around realism and abstraction? This will end up being a tattoo that looks beautiful yet has some busy characteristics that will make it pop.
An example of this is getting a realistic eye with abstract dots and lines framing it. You could even choose to get a realistic skull with a few black and red dots and lines around it too. If you want to take your skull to the next level, try adding some Micky Mouse ears to it so it pops even more on your chaotic background.
5. Add Some Words to Your Piece of Art
When we were explaining what trash polka tattoos were we noted that some of them have letters and words included, but not all. If you’re looking to get some lettering done with your tattoo you should be making it accent the rest of the tattoo.
The way to make your lettering go with your tattoo is to have the lettering be abstract. When people usually get tattoos they will get cursive lettering or a simple print text.
For your trash polka tattoo, you should accent your realistic skull with a text that looks like a cut out ransom letter. You can even opt to have a bold typewriter text and even have some of the letters smear or run a few drops of ink.
6. Make Visions Abstract
Some of the most beautiful and intricate trash polka tattoos are the ones that take realistic visions and make them abstract. This is done by making it seem you’re looking into the eye of someone.
A great example of this tattoo is when a realistic eye is tattooed. This eye is open and we can see into it. The vision we see is an abstract picture that only the artist and client know what it actually is. This makes the tattoo chaotic and intriguing just like a trash polka tattoo should be.
7. The Joker
Getting the Joker in a trash polka tattoo style is one of the biggest compliments you could give this fictional character. Just like the tattoo style, the Joker is chaotic and intricate. You will be left with a creep tattoo that is intricate and villainous.
Now You Know Some Trash Polka Tattoo Ideas
We have provided you with the top trash polka tattoo ideas so you can find your next piece of artwork. From getting a popular villain in the trash polka style to mixing realism and abstraction, you’re bound to have the coolest tattoo to date. For more tattoo tips and ideas be sure to check out the rest of our website here.
Trash Polka: Pushing the Boundaries in Tattoo Design
Trash Polka: Pushing the Boundaries in Tattoo Design
Beauty in chaos is the underlying motif of the German-born trash polka tattoo style. Click here to learn more about this dark, edgy, collage-like body art.
Tattoos have become increasingly popular. For many, the stigma associated with this art form has long gone.
People now look to tattoos as an outward expression of their individuality.
Surveys show that an estimated 45 million people in the U.S have at least one tattoo.
In light of this, it’s unsurprising that tattoo fans are hunting for pieces that are bigger, better and bolder than ever before.
This is where Trash Polka comes into its own.
Let’s explore this tattoo style in more detail.
What Is Trash Polka?
Tattoo genres are continually developing to meet the needs of various tattoo trends and demands.
One such style is Trash Polka. This a relatively new yet, revolutionary style of tattooing.
Trash polka prides itself on its uniqueness. It aims to push the boundaries of traditional tattoo art.
This genre was created and developed by tattoo artists Volko Merschky and Simone Plaff, in Wurzburg, Germany in their tattoo parlor, Buena Vista Tattoo Club.
These artists are renown for their alternative choice of themes and colors used throughout their work.
Volko describes their art as a combination of: “realism and trash; nature and the abstract; technology and humanity; past, present, and future; opposites that they are trying to urge into a creative dance to harmony and rhythm in tune with the body”.
The beauty of Trash Polka is its ability to evolve. However, there are certain traits the tattoo must have. Without them, the piece can’t be considered a genuine imitation of the style.
These include:
- The combination of realistic images with smudges, and dynamic design. This brings a chaotic look to the piece.
- Occasionally, words, phrases, or quotes will be incorporated. However, the calligraphy must compliment the rest of the design.
- Black and red ink always feature in these tattoos. However, variations can include black-gray coloring.
- The tattoo must resemble a collage that combines both natural-looking images and photo-realistic images.
The Best Way to Describe the Trash Polka Genre?
The best way to describe Trash Polka is a combination of realism, surrealism, script and abstract lines.
When all of the elements of the tattoo are combined they usually don’t link. This is purposely done to make the tattoo look wild and ambiguous.
Death and everything connected to this notion is usually the foundation for these totems.
Bold
This genre is famous for utilizing both bold and fine lines. These were selected to complement the use of black and red ink. This makes the finished piece look dramatic.
Rare
This genre is limited in the sense of how many artists can replicate this style well.
It’s very new and most commonly found in Germany. This is a perfect choice if you’re looking for unique body art.
Unique
Trash Polka epitomizes the use of novel designs. The imagery of different items unrelated to each other is one of the foundations of this style.
Universal Symbolism in Trash Polka Design
There are several symbols typically associated with this tattoo style. Commonly, people associate this genre with rebellion.
Rebelliousness strikes the core of these designs and is achieved by using bold, bright and in some cases, vulgar imagery.
This art aims to protest societal norms, to rebuke commonness and monotony and to spur a sense of irony.
Put simply, all these pieces are thought-provoking and will often have a hidden meaning to them.
This is why the below images are often used in Trash Polker designs.
However, the meanings of these symbols are always up for interpretation. Only the tattoo artist and the recipient of the piece will ever truly know the imagery’s true meaning.;
Skulls
These symbolize our inevitable death and all things evil in the world. Skulls are usually used to represent a multitude of issues in society. They could also represent the individuals intrinsic evil.
Dice
The inclusion of dice can represent; opportunity, chance, luck, and evil.
Clocks
Clocks always represent the passage of time.
This genre often includes broken dials within the timepieces. This sometimes represents the fact that nothing is permanent.
Imagery like this almost alludes to the idea that time always gets the better of us in the end.
Faces
These are very prominent of thsi style. Usually, these faces are drawn without eyes, rotted faces or, a bloodied face.
Volko and Simone would often include celebrity faces and design them in an abstract way.
What Do I Need to Consider Before Having This Tattoo Style?
As with all tattoos you need to consider its placement, colors, and design carefully.
You also need to source an artist who’s willing to work with the images you want to use (as not all of them will be).
Remember, all tattoos fade over time. Bear in mind that fine lines are more likely to blur eventually.
As this style is designed to look fresh, you have to make sure you won’t fall out of love with your piece.
By looking fresh, we mean a tattoo that appears ‘just finished’. The gloss of the newly printed tattoo adds to its ‘pop’.
You have to consider what your design will look like when it begins to fade. This is especially true for those who frequently expose their skin to the sun.
This genre is fabulous if you want a larger tattoo because ideally, you need a more significant section of the body to work on for these designs to look their best.
As previously alluded to, you can add plenty of details and hidden meanings to your piece. This style is perfect if that sort of thing’s important to you.
Do You Want a Trash Polka Style Tattoo?
If you’re looking to get this of style tattoo please feel free to contact us today, and we’ll be more than happy to book you in for a consultation.
Alternatively, if you have any questions about this genre or about the tattooing process please feel free to send us in your questions and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Or, if you’re looking for further information and tattoo inspiration please feel free to browse our blog.
Stop by our Maui Tattoo Shop or Henderson Tattoo Shop
Everything You Need to Know About Dotwork Tattoos
Dotwork Tattoos
Everything You Need to Know About Dotwork Tattoos
Dotwork is an intricate style of tattoo that is becoming more and more popular. Here you’ll discover everything you need to know about dotwork tattoos.
Tattoos are becoming more popular than ever. They serve as a form of self-expression, a memorial, or even just a collector’s hobby.
In the past, society viewed them as something only military service members, criminals, or gang members would have put on their body.
Today, you most likely know someone who has at least one tattoo. Celebrities also play a role in this cultural shift.
Stars such as Adam Levine, Dwayne Jonson, and David Beckham have made getting inked more acceptable for the general public.
To put it into perspective, the industry was worth $2.3 billion in 2012.
But, people are beginning to explore dotwork tattoos along with traditional ones.
They’ve become an increasingly popular trend that people are flocking to, and customers seem to love their results.
Read on to learn everything you should know before you look into getting a dotwork tattoo.
So, What Are Dotwork Tattoos?
Like the name implies, dotwork tattoos are images composed entirely of single dots. As you may expect, this process can take a long time to complete.
Artists typically use black and gray, as well. But, this doesn’t mean that color isn’t an option. Dark blue is used fairly often, but brighter colors are less common.
Throughout history, dotwork tattoos have traditionally been used for religious or cultural artwork. This is especially true in Asian and European countries.
In fact, they have been around for thousands of years.
Today, dotwork has reemerged as a trend due to the way the artwork looks when completed. Compared to conventional tattooing methods, dotwork ink tends to come out smoother.
When closely examined, this type of tattooing (as you can tell from the name) also allows you to see each individual dot. This gives the artwork more character.
Do They Hurt?
People tend to have different levels of pain tolerance when it comes to getting inked. More often than not, however, getting a tattoo is going to hurt.
The location of the ink heavily determines how bad the pain will be. The ribs, inner arms, and shoulder tend to be the most painful.
Those who have dotwork ink done often say that the pain is more localized to where the dot itself is. With regular tattoos, the pain may sometimes radiate throughout the entire area.
Does dotwork hurt less? It’s hard to say because neither type of procedure is particularly comfortable.
The major difference is the length of time it takes the artist to complete the work. Dotwork takes more time, which means that you will experience discomfort for a longer period.
How Are They Done?
The most interesting thing about this type of tattoo work is how it is done. While an artist can do dotwork pieces with a regular tattoo machine, many artists tend to use hand poking techniques.
Hand poking the ink into the skin allows the artist to be far more precise with their work.
It is also easy to tell this type of tattoo from a traditional one because of the process. Those who have hand poked tattoos frequently describe a high level of satisfaction with the work because it feels more organic to them.
Do They Cost More?
It’s no secret that tattoos can be expensive. Some artists charge based upon the entire piece, while others will want to be compensated by the hour.
Dotwork ink takes longer to complete than regular ink. Therefore, the price will most likely be higher than a similar piece that an artist does conventionally.
But, the price hasn’t done much to stop people who are set on getting the ink they want. While dotwork may demand more money and time, the results (from a talented artist) are worth it.
What Type of Art is Best?
There aren’t many hard limits on the type of art your artist can do with dotwork.
However, the most common subject matter for a tattoo artist to work with seems to be symbols.
These could be mandalas, geometric style tattoos, or even something minimalist.
Generally, though, the less complicated artwork is the best option. You’re going to have a very hard time finding an artist skilled enough for (or who would even want to do) a photorealistic dotwork piece.
As long as you’re willing to go through the extra pain, almost any type of artwork is possible. Dotwork tattoos have a unique appearance, but the concept for them does not have to be unusual.
How’s The Aftercare?
While the procedure for a dotwork tattoo may be a bit different than normal, the aftercare is the same.
After all, the ink ends up in the same place: underneath your skin. It’s just deposited in another way.
As long as you keep your ink moisturized and covered for the appropriate amount of time, it should heal just as normally as a regular tattoo.
What Else Is It Used For?
You don’t have to have an entire piece made completely out of dotwork. In regular tattoo art, dotwork is often used for shading.
In pieces that are primarily black and gray, it’s not uncommon at all for an artist to finish up with this method.
Not all dotwork shading is conventional. To save time, artists may use certain types of tattoo machines that emulate the effects of hand-poked dotwork tattoos.
When an artist uses this type of shading, it creates a smooth, almost foggy appearance to the areas where the artist utilizes it.
How Do I Know if I Should Get a Dotwork Tattoo?
There aren’t tattoos that you can do with only dotwork. But, dotwork can make certain pieces appear softer and more natural.
If you are willing to go through what hand poked dotwork pieces take, then you should do so. Of course, make sure you find a reliable, professional tattoo artist to take care of you.
Where Do I Go from Here?
Once you’ve decided what tattoo you want and where you want it, research different shops and find a skilled artist that you resonate with.
To learn more about our talented artists, visit our artists’ page
Stop by our Maui Tattoo Shop or Henderson Tattoo Shop
