Inside: What is a Watercolor Tattoo?
Whether you’re an art buff or not, you’ve likely considered getting a tattoo at least at some point in your life. After all, what could be more daring than inking your skin with a classy masterpiece?
Painting tattoos isn’t new. Most people opt for it because they yearn for something truly unique and stand out from the crowd. While this new style of tattooing has become highly popular among the masses and it has also revolutionized the idea of artistic appeal, some tattoo artists may not entirely stand by its side.
Skeptics also tend to disregard the idea completely as they claim that the tattoos aren’t robust enough to survive longer. Again, the subject isn’t as simple as that. While this aesthetically pleasing tattoo exudes abstract inspirations and bright colors, it isn’t always something worthy of being on your “must-have” list. There are many things to learn about every form of art, and tattoos are no different.
Here are four things to know before getting a watercolor tattoo.
What Are Watercolor Tattoos?
Going against the traditional tattoo wisdom, this approach to making tattoos is the new trend these days. With no black and little to no outlines, this new way of creating tattoos is making waves worldwide.
As opposed to the conventional methods, watercolor tattoos are all about subtle color shifts and gradual shading. The effect is unique and gorgeous in its own right. In fact, it can sometimes take years for artists to master the technique and create eye-catching designs.
Watercolor Tattoo Ideas
Small Watercolored Heart Tattoo
Should You Get One?
So, what are some factors to be cautious of?
1 – Sunlight
Since they’re much more delicate than traditional tattoos, they’re also more likely to fade quickly. One of the major contributors to it is sunlight. Since a watercolor tattoo typically relies on light blends and subtle colors, it is prone to fading due to the UV rays that break the pigments down in ink.
2- Friction Is the Foe
When considering getting a tattoo, make sure not to choose a spot that undergoes a lot of activity. You would want a spot that doesn’t rub or chafe against your clothes too much.
This is because the ink becomes faded and dull once your tattoo rubs against them. Hence, you want to avoid friction as much as possible. It is also recommended to dress appropriately during the time the tattoo heals.
3- Skincare Is a Must
Sporting body art isn’t always easy. It requires adequate discipline, patience, and of course, skincare. Keeping the target area clean is immensely important unless you want to risk getting infected. Furthermore, giving your tattoo a chance to heal properly is also imperative. That’s not it. You must also moisturize frequently to keep your skin firm and elastic.
Avoid using products with harsh chemicals and steer clear of cleansers that strip away your skin’s natural oils. Following the completion of the healing process, avoid scrubbing or exfoliating the target area as it can remove essential pigments from the tattoo.
4- Not Every Tattoo Artist Knows the Art
Since the trend is relatively new, not everyone has mastered the art yet. Most artists are yet to become familiar with watercolor ink. Hence, do not hesitate to do your research and ensure that your chosen artist has had enough practice inking watercolor tattoos.
The better your research, the higher your chances of landing the right artist will be. Consequently, the more likely your new watercolor tattoo will be able to stand the test of time.
Browse their social media pages and check out their most recent work. Finding the right tattoo artist can be daunting, but once you get there, you’ll rejoice in every moment of wearing that ink.
Despite popular notions, watercolor tattoos can have the same vibrancy, age, and longevity as other styles of tattoo, given that they’re cared for. With little research and care, your new ink will shine just as bright in a decade as it did the day you walked out of that shop.
In conclusion, body modification is a personal choice. However, being aware of the pros and cons is as important as being aware of contemporary trends. Ultimately, it is a crucial part of taking a leap. A watercolor tattoo appears much more aesthetically pleasing than any other form of art. Still, there are also many challenges one has to encounter to keep the quality intact.
Learning everything about tattoos, particularly watercolor tattoos, isn’t something you can do overnight. Hence, make sure not to jump into every opportunity you get and do enough research beforehand.
Whether it’s a typical or a watercolor tattoo, getting your skin modified requires knowledge and discipline that can take years to master.
Learn More About Tattoos
- Single Needle Tattoo – In the mood for an old school style of tattooing? Well, these fine line tattoos or otherwise known as single needle tattoos, are cool and will give you a vintage look. Only using a single needle allows the tattoo artist to be detailed and can provide dainty works of art. Pretty sure you are going to enjoy these single needle tattoo design ideas!
- Tattoo Peeling Tips – Tattoo peeling is one of the least fun parts about getting a new tattoo. Don’t worry though, it is a natural part of the healing process and will not have a negative effect on your tattoo long term. While uncomfortable and at times a bit alarming, peeling is no big deal. Read our expert advice on what to do with tattoo peel.
- Pop Art Tattoo Definition – Pop art tattoos are bold, bright, fierce, and a blast to look at. There is no shortage of creativity in this list of awesome pop art tattoo designs. You’ll find lots of reds, blues, and yellow hues in these designs. So if you want your next tattoo to stand out, consider any one of these creative pop art tattoos.