Points to Ponder Before Having Your First Tattoo 0

Everybody gets too hyped up when getting their very first tattoo. Most of the people who get inked for the first time have this feeling of a fire burning inside them or a feeling of their blood rushing through their veins. Some might even feel butterflies in their stomach. Having your very first tattoo gives you mixed emotions – a feeling of excitement, nervousness, happiness and liberation.

Tattoos have become part of the modern fashion. What used to be a taboo has now become a craze and for some it even became an obsession. Of course, there will always be some people who regret getting their first tattoos because of different reasons. This is why you need to remember the three main tips I am about to tell you. Read through before booking an appointment with your chosen tattoo artist.

3. Commit. Follow your tattoo care instructions. You can use some Tattoo Go products for this like their Aftercare Lotion and Aftercare Soap to help you with your tattoo's healing process.

Eternal Tattoo Ink 0

Despite the risks of getting a tattoo , there are still a number of people who take pleasure in the beauty and aesthetics of it. Most of us know that using unsterilised needle for piercing or wounding yourself is a big risk for our health. Using unsterilised needle can pass infectious disease such as hepatitis and HIV. Another thing is that using these types of needles can increase the risk of getting allergies and other health complications from colored tattoo ink. Some of the complications include carcinoma, cement dermatitis, collagen deposits, granuloma, lichenoid diseases and many others. Before you get your first tattoo, think as much as you can first. Research articles and read some books about tattoos, inks and the other consequences might face. Getting informed about tattoos, inks, needles, and other tattoo-related stuff will help you understand it better. 

Don't worry! Since the art of tattooing have become too mainstream and a lot of people appreciate the art of getting tattoos, the issues and concerns I have mentioned  above are already being taken care of. Tattoo ink manufacturers and tattoo artists are making their efforts to develop and produce a better tattoo ink quality that lessens the said risks. Because of this, there are different types of ink available in the market. Thanks to these people, ink manufacturers have discovered making tattoo inks using organic and vegan ingredients.

If you're considering on getting a tattoo you might want to look for the following ingredients to make sure your tattoo artist is using a non-toxic ink:

• Aluminum, Copper, Sodium – generates blue dye
• Carbazole and Dioxazine – generates purple ink
• Carbon and Logwood – used for generating blank ink
• Monoazo – generates green ink; it is a carbon-based pigment used in cosmetics as a coloring in cosmetics
• Naphthol – generates red ink
• Titanium Dioxide – used for generating white ink
• Turmeric – an herb that generates yellow ink

Aside from the ingredients mentioned above, non-toxic inks also include purified water, ethanol and vegetable-based glycerine as main ingredients.

One of the leading brands that are proven to be non-toxic is the Eternal Tattoo Ink. Their inks are composed of organic pigments. In addition to that, Eternal Tattoo Ink is also free from any animal by-products. This is a great advantage for our vegan friends out there who are really dying to get themselves a tattoo! Just do some research and find a tattoo artist who use Eternal Ink and not just some normal low-class tattoo ink. Tattoo Artists who use non-toxic inks are artists who not only love their craft but also worry about their client's safety. Read reviews, research and choose the perfect tattoo artist and tattoo parlour for you. Do not hesitate to ask questions. You can even ask them to do a patch test prior to getting inked, this way you will be able to test if you will get any allergic reaction from the tattoo ink they will be using.

Why choose Kuro Sumi Ink? 0

Choosing between different tattoo ink brands can be a real brain teaser. It is one of the dilemmas most tattoo artists face, especially those buying their supplies for the first time. One brand can give you a more vibrant and bright finish, while other brands produce soft colours. The main differences among tattoo ink brands are the ingredients and measurements of these ingredients used. Finding the perfect tattoo ink can take a lot of work and research. 

One brand that's very popular, even in other countries, due to its uniqueness and superior quality is Kuro Sumi Ink. Kuro Sumi Ink is created using a secret formula that has been passed down from different generations. It is world-renowned for its outstanding outlining and shading inks, making Kuro Sumi one of the most popular ink brands used by world-class tattoo artists.

Wide range of colors

Unlike other tattoo ink brands, Kuro Sumi has a smaller colour palette. However, it remains wide enough for artists looking to produce creative and colourful designs. Kuro Sumi inks are popular for their superior outlining and shading qualities and the superb vibrancy of their hues.

Our range of black Kuro Sumi tattoo ink includes options that are designed for shading and outlining. Choose from black outline ink or grey wash shading ink, available in both black and soft options to suit your specific preferences.

Some of their famous inks include Buddha Blue, Green Apple Blossom, Fuji Lavender, Tokyo Rose Red, Pacific Blue, Midori Green, Eggplant, Geisha Grey, Tiger Skin, (and dozens more) all of which have the fluid consistency and intense colours needed for a fantastic outcome.

Materials

Kuro Sumi Ink is water-based. The colours come from traditional Japanese recipes that have a lot of unique pigments. The inks come from natural ingredients, making it safe for the skin. Kuro Sumi Ink uses ink formulas that are vegan-friendly and purely organic. The use of natural pigments and the lack of any animal products in the inks make this brand suitable for vegans.

Product Range

Just like the product’s colour palette, Kuro Sumi inks are also available in a wide variety of sets and the black and grey inks come in a range of sizes. Although the colours are meek, the ink's strength and vibrancy compensate for the lack of modern colours, which are found in the ink ranges of other brands manufactured in the US. 

Before you spend your money on any tattoo ink or equipment, it is best to ask people who have been in the industry for years, and to read online reviews.

Manchester International Tattoo Show 0

The most loved and much awaited tattoo convention in the UK is almost here! It will be held next month October 29 – October 30th at Manchester Central Convention Complex! Tattoo artists and tattoo enthusiasts are all excited. If you’re thinking of attending the Manchester International Tattoo Show, here are some of the things to expect during this two-day affair. 

Obviously you will meet and see a lot of tattoo artists, tattoo shop owners, vendors selling tattoo supplies, clothing, and other tattoo related items. Aside from that you’ll also see a lot of tattoo enthusiasts, including those who are wanting to have their bodies as canvasses. Hundreds of tattoo artists from around the world will be there, so this event is perfect not only for those wanting to get inked but also for aspiring tattoo artists wanting to get apprenticeship. Some artists will be coming from Thailand, Turkey, Cyprus, Spain, France, Netherlands, Greece, Ireland, Belgium, Italy, Germany, South Africa, and of course the well-known tattoo artists in the UK.  

If you’re planning to get a tattoo during this two-day event, here are some tips that might come on handy. First, checkout the conventions Facebook Page and see the list of tattoo artist who will be participating in the event, though these artists will accept “walk-ups” keep in mind that thousands of people are expected to attend the event, and pre-booking is the safest option. Second, don’t be afraid to ask questions and make a conversation to make your experience worthwhile. 

If you don’t feel like getting tattooed, there are quite a lot of other activities you can do during this convention. This is your chance to meet, chat, and take a photo with your favourite tattoo artists, but make sure that you don’t bother them too much when they are doing an actual tattoo on a client. Aside from that, there will be a lot of vendors selling clothes, artworks, and other memorabilia, most of the vendors deal with cash only transactions so bring cash to avoid hassle. 

You shouldn’t worry about getting bored during the event, because aside from tattoo sessions there will be bands playing different types of music, burlesque, and some magic and freak-shows. There’s face painting, henna sessions, and tarot card reading.  

Another most awaited happening during the event is the Skin Deep Contest, where some of the highest standard tattoos will be judged. Different tattoo artists will be competing and will be judged on the mainstage based on the design, creativity, and quality of their work. The awards for this contest includes: (For Saturday) Best Oriental, Best Traditional, Best Blackwork, Best Colour, Best of Saturday, (For Sunday) Best Avante Garde, Best Black and Grey, Best Realism, Best of Sunday and Best of Convention. 

If you feel that even after participating in all the mentioned activities above are still not enough, you may join the after-show party at the REVOLUTION BAR (Deansgate) just a few minutes away from the Manchester Central Convention Complex.

Things to avoid when getting your first tattoo 0

For first timers, getting a tattoo can be very frightening. Especially when you hear your tattoo artist asks you questions like “Are you sure about this? Are you happy with the design? Is this the size you want?” and then follow it with a “You have to be sure, it’ll be there forever” - statement. But if you really really want to get a tattoo, nothing should stop you. It can be scary, yes, but it will also be an amazing and unforgettable experience.

Tattoo artists can be very intimidating at first, but believe me, they are more than willing to answer any questions you have, so do not be afraid to ask.

If you’re thinking of getting your very first tattoo, you better read this list I made on which things you should avoid when getting your first tattoo.

• Before anything else, do not forget to research for a tattoo artist. Aside from the design, choosing the tattoo artist is one of the most important thing to consider, especially if it’s your first time. You don’t want to get traumatised and regret getting a tattoo right? Google and search for tattoo artists near your area. You can also look for tattoo artists on Instagram. Most tattoo artists use Instagram to post their portfolio. Read reviews, ask your friends, and ask recommendations from online groups. Facebook is a great place to search for groups related to tattoos.
• As I mentioned earlier, you should not be afraid to ask questions. Don’t get intimidated with your tattoo artist. Ask them anything tattoo-related. Ask them about the ink, the needles, tips on caring for a healing tattoo, and on how to maintain the vibrancy of your tattoo. This will help you feel more comfortable while getting your tattoo.
• Asking questions isn’t enough. Do not hesitate to speak up, if you have comments on the design, size, colour, etc. Remember, it’s your skin, and getting a tattoo removed is more painful than getting a tattoo. Communicate with your artist and tell him if you want to adjust the size, or the design of your tattoo. I’m sure they’ll understand. Aside from the fact that you are paying them for their service you should not forget that your tattoo will be there forever (unless you have it removed.)
• Don’t rush it. Not all tattoo parlours accept walk-ins, especially in-demand artists. Don’t be impatient, and make sure you book an appointment so you don’t waste your time travelling to the tattoo parlour only to find out you won’t be accommodated.
• Don’t choose an artist because he or she gave you the cheapest quote, and by “cheapest” I mean CHEAPEST. Don’t sacrifice the design and quality of your tattoo just because you want to save money. Tattoos are permanent so you might want to save money to get the best quality tattoo artist to do it. 
• Don’t doubt your tattoo artist. Experienced tattoo artists have seen and done lots of tattoos, so when they suggest something like size or tattoo placement, trust them. They probably know what will and won’t work.

Antibacterial Tattoo Soap and other Tattoo After-Care tips 0

The process of getting a tattoo doesn’t end with you leaving the tattoo shop. It will take few more days before you see the final outcome. When your tattoo has fully healed, that’s when you can finally say it’s finished. To give you an idea on your tattoo’s healing process, I’ve made a list of the different what to expect, what to avoid, and what to do while your tattoo is healing.

Once your tattoo is finished, the tattoo becomes an open wound. It will be washed and bandaged by your artist to prevent infection and bacteria. Some artists recommend that you keep your tattoo covered for 24 hours, some will recommend that you remove the bandage immediately once you get home. I prefer to remove the bandage immediately once I get home, to let it breathe and to avoid the bandage sticking to the wound.

The pain, and healing process will depend on your tattoo. Tattoos that are bigger in size take more time to heal and are more painful. Some even get fevers. When it becomes too painful for you to bear, you can take a pain reliever. It’s normal for the tattooed area to become reddish and a bit swollen.

You can take a bath even if your tattoo hasn’t fully healed. Just make sure to use an antibacterial tattoo soap, avoid scrubbing, and wash it as gentle as possible. Ask your tattoo artist if they have an antibacterial tattoo soap brand they recommend. It is not advisable to soak in a bath tub while your tattoo is still in its healing process. Soaking in a tub, or swimming in pools, or the sea might cause infections to your tattoo, and that’s the last thing you want to have. Wash your tattoo twice a day with the antibacterial tattoo soap.

The tattooed area will start to become dry and form scabs as it heals. When this happens, it will start to itch. Make sure you do not scratch or peel your tattoo or else, it will have white spots when it’s fully healed. You can moisturize your tattoo by applying a lotion recommended by your artist. You should also avoid being exposed to direct sunlight because it can cause your tattoo to fade. Since your skin is still healing and recovering, expect it to be very sensitive, exposing it to sunlight can cause burning, and other irritations. The scabs will peel and fall off on its own. You will notice that your tattoo won’t be as sharp and vibrant as it was before it peeled. It is perfectly normal. The colour will improve once the tattoo is fully healed.

The healing process might take three to four weeks. During this period, it is important to observe your skin and your tattoo very well. If you notice anything that was not mentioned here, it’s best that you contact your tattoo artist right away. He can give you advise on how to care for a tattoo that has been infected.