The hardest part of the process is over now that you have made the decision to cover up your old tattoo. Perhaps it brings to mind a moment or choice you would prefer to forget. Maybe the previous tattoo artist did not understand what you wanted. Or perhaps you are simply eager for a fresh work of art. Whatever the cause, you are aware that it is time to get something new.
How Do Cover-Up Tattoos Work?
A cover-up tattoo is a new design that is inked over an old one such that the old tattoo is either hidden or incorporated into the new artwork. In essence, you are having a tattoo over an existing tattoo.
Common Reasons for Cover-Ups
- The initial tattoo was not done well
- The tattoo serves as a reminder of a difficult time
- It has faded or appears outdated
- You want to use the tattoo as inspiration for a new design
It is considerably simpler to conceal an old, faded tattoo in a light colour like blue or green than it is to cover a brand-new all-black tattoo. Before undergoing a cover-up, some tattoos are suitable candidates for a few laser tattoo removal sessions to make the tattoo fade first.
Cover-Up vs. Laser Tattoo Removal
Laser Tattoo Removal
Uses a laser to penetrate the skin and target the ink. White blood cells absorb the fragmented ink particles over time. Most people need multiple sessions for full removal. Best for those who want to completely remove all signs of an old tattoo.
Cover-Up Tattoo
A new design is inked over the old one, using components from the original to produce something wholly different. Best for those who are okay with having a tattoo in the same location but want a brand-new design.
How Cover-Up Tattoos Work (The Science)
The dermis (the layer beneath the epidermis) contains the ink from your previous tattoo. The new ink will also be deposited in the dermis, where it will mix with the old ink. A tattoo artist must take into account both old and new colours when choosing ink, because mixing occurs. For example, tattooing red ink over an old blue tattoo will result in purple. Additionally, darker inks will predominate.
Factors Affecting Coverage
| Factor | Impact on Cover-Up |
|---|---|
| Size | Your cover-up must be at least the same size as the original, and probably larger. |
| Colour | Faded tattoos are simpler to hide. Multiple colours in the original make covering more difficult. |
| Age | Older tattoos are usually easier to hide due to faded ink and blown lines. |
| Design | Simpler designs may be easier to cover than complex ones. It is far simpler to incorporate a simple tattoo into a new, intricate design. |
| Artist | Work with someone who has specific experience performing cover-up tattoos, not just general tattooing. |
Tips for Choosing a Cover-Up Tattoo
1. Stay Close to the Original Style
Cover-up tattoos are most effective when they have a design close to the old ink. A Celtic knot covered with another Celtic design works better than attempting a completely different art style.
2. Consider Enhancing the Existing Design
You might be able to add to your existing design. Enhancing with additional features, deeper colour, and size could be faster and more effective than a complete cover-up.
3. Be Ready for a Bigger Piece
Your cover-up must be at least the same size as the original, and it will probably need to be larger. Factor this into your design planning.
4. Plan for Maintenance
Cover-up tattoos may take up to three sessions and may be more susceptible to fading than originals. Follow proper aftercare including moisturizing and UV protection.
5. Research Qualified Artists
Ask for cover-up examples from their portfolios. They should be skilled at recommending styles and colours that will successfully cover your existing tattoo.
6. Consider Laser First
Even lighter or older tattoos can benefit from laser fading sessions to give the cover-up a better starting surface. Take this into account when planning your timeline.
Common Questions
Can colour hide a black tattoo?
Any colour other than black is difficult to conceal over a black tattoo. Lighter colours will not cover an initial black tattoo as well as dark tones like navy or brown. Laser removal may be needed first for vibrant-colour cover-ups.
How soon can you cover up a tattoo?
You must wait until your tattoo has completely healed. New tattoos are open wounds that may take months to fully heal at all skin depths, even though the surface recovers in two to three weeks.
