Can I Get A Blackout Tattoo To Cover A Hand Tattoo?

Alright, let’s dive into this.

Thinking about covering up that hand tattoo, huh?

And you’re eyeballing a blackout tattoo?

I get it.

Hand tattoos are tricky.

Sometimes they just don’t age well.

Or maybe you just changed your mind.

So, can I get a blackout tattoo to cover a hand tattoo?

Let’s break it down.

Blackout Tattoos: The Bold & The Beautiful (But Permanent)

A blackout tattoo is exactly what it sounds like.

Solid, dense black ink covering a large area.

Think a bold statement, a commitment.

It’s not for the faint of heart.

I’ve seen some seriously cool blackout pieces.

I’ve also seen people regret them later.

It’s a big decision.

Covering a Hand Tattoo with a Blackout: Is It Possible?

Yes, it’s technically possible.

But there are some things to seriously consider before jumping in.

• Scarring: If your existing tattoo has any raised scarring, a blackout might not completely hide it. The texture will still be there.

• Ink Saturation: Getting solid black takes time and skill. A good artist will pack the ink in properly to avoid patchy areas. Expect multiple sessions.

• Pain Level: Hand tattoos are already notoriously painful. Blacking out your entire hand? Brace yourself. We’re talking serious discomfort.

• Laser Tattoo Removal (First?): Consider laser removal to lighten the existing tattoo before blacking it out. This can make the final result cleaner and more even.

Factors to Consider Before Getting a Blackout Tattoo

Let’s be real, this isn’t like getting a little star on your ankle.

It’s a major commitment.

Here’s what you need to think about:

• Your Artist: Find a reputable artist with experience in blackout tattoos. Look at their portfolio. See if they have experience covering up tattoos with blackout. This is crucial. Don’t cheap out.

• Your Skin Tone: Black ink looks different on different skin tones. Talk to your artist about how it will appear on your skin.

• Your Future: Are you okay with having a completely black hand for the rest of your life? Think about potential career implications or personal style changes.

• Alternative Cover-Up Options: Have you explored other cover-up designs? Sometimes a creative design can incorporate the existing tattoo in a way you love.

Blackout Tattoo Aftercare: Crucial for Success

Aftercare is even more important with blackout tattoos.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Follow Your Artist’s Instructions: Every artist has their preferred aftercare routine. Listen to them.

• Keep It Clean: Wash your tattoo gently with mild soap and water.

• Moisturize: Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer.

• Avoid Sun Exposure: Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight. Sunscreen is your best friend once it’s healed.

• Be Patient: Blackout tattoos can take longer to heal than smaller tattoos.

Real Talk: My Friend’s Blackout Experience

I had a friend, let’s call him Mark, who got a blackout sleeve.

He had a bunch of smaller, older tattoos he wasn’t happy with.

He went all in.

He loves it.

But he also admits it was incredibly painful and took a lot of time and money.

He also said he wished he’d lightened some of the older tattoos with laser removal first.

Can I Get A Blackout Tattoo to Cover a Hand Tattoo? FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Q: Will a blackout tattoo completely hide my old tattoo?

  • A: It should, but factors like scarring and ink density can affect the outcome. Laser removal beforehand can improve the results.

• Q: How much does a blackout tattoo cost?

  • A: It varies depending on the size and the artist’s rates. Expect to pay more than you would for a standard tattoo.

• Q: Is a blackout tattoo more painful than a regular tattoo?

  • A: Generally, yes. The larger area and the need for dense ink saturation contribute to increased pain.

• Q: How long does a blackout tattoo take to heal?

  • A: It can take several weeks, even months, for a large blackout tattoo to fully heal.

• Q: Can I get a blackout tattoo if I have sensitive skin?

  • A: Talk to your artist and a dermatologist. They can assess your skin and recommend the best approach.

Final Thoughts

Getting a blackout tattoo to cover a hand tattoo is a big decision.

Do your research.

Find a skilled artist.

And be prepared for the commitment.

Make sure it’s the right choice for you.

Ultimately, the answer to " can I get a blackout tattoo to cover a hand tattoo?" is yes, but proceed with caution and careful planning.