Top 5 Tattoo Aftercare Products For You 0

Companies of different tattoo aftercare products in the market do everything they can to catch the consumer’s attention. A lot of products claim they offer you the best quality, some other companies say theirs are the bestsellers. While these may be true, it is best to be sure where to splurge you money on. Here are the top five products that will give the inked skins some TLC! 

1. Billy Jealousy Marked IV Life Tattoo Care Kit

This care kit contains Billy Jealousy’s Tattoo Wash, Tattoo Lotion, and Tattoo Salve. This kit serves to get rid of skin’s dirt, excess oil, and dead cells. The cucumber extract helps tattoos retain their color, while hydrolyzed oat protein helps skin hold moisture to develop your tattoo’s vibrancy. Glycolic AHA and papaya extract exfoliate and polish. It’s perfect after a new tattoo, to help ease the healing process. Green tea leaf extracts contain properties that is also a great antioxidant, while the grapeseed oil protects your skin against the harmful free radicals. The kit’s salve is rich with vitamin E, natural olive and lavender oils that makes your tattoo livelier. It won’t clog pores and is non-irritating.

2. Tattoo Goo Tattoo Aftercare Kit

Second on the list is Tattoo Goo Tattoo Aftercare Kit. Established since 1998, the product is a veteran in the tattoo industry. The long period they had garnered a decent amount of experience. This complete kit contains one each of Tattoo Goo salve in a 3/4 ounce tin, a Tattoo Goo deep cleansing soap for a faster healing, a Tattoo Goo strong lotion for soothing and enhancement of your new ink, and the best part of it all is that it contains a Tattoo Goo sunscreen that protects the color, with 30 SPF against the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays.

3. H2Ocean Ultimate Tattoo Kit

H2Ocean Ultimate Tattoo Kit uses water- based and alcohol- free formula that nurtures your skin and backs up your skin’s natural healing powers. It is a brand that is well- known in the tattoo community because it works perfectly. The kit comprises of a cleaning foam, moisturizing cream, and an “ink lock” cream. This kit will keep and maintain your tattoo’s color for many years to come. The ultimate tattoo aftercare kit provides you with a three-step, safe, unscented, and revitalizing skin care regimen that is made for the tattoo industry by the tattoo industry.

4. Hustle Butter – Deluxe Tattoo Butter

Hustle Butter is a vegan product that is the perfect alternative to any petroleum- based product. This product is used as a lubricant that helps your tattoo’s healing process faster and better. Its main ingredients include mango, cocoa, papaya and other Shea butters… so it really isn’t a wonder that it brings a lot of benefits to your skin. It reduces redness, swelling and bleeding. For the professional tattoo artist, skin remains workable – you’ll never have any more over-worked highlights, yellows and whites go in the first time, color goes in so easily.

5. After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer & Aftercare Lotion

After Inked aftercare products has been creating a name for itself in the tattoo industry. The moisturizer and lotion should be applied daily for new and existing tattoos, so it won’t stick to your clothes.

It’s an all- natural and non- petroleum based tattoo aftercare product. It is free from paraben and gluten, unscented, and vegan! What more could you ask for, right? The product is clinically and dermatologist tested so anyone can safely use it, and won’t have their skins irritated. This product cannot only be used for tattoos, but also on any permanent makeup procedures, such as on the lips, brows, eyeliner, and areola.

These products may sound inviting, and may make you want to rush to the nearest tattoo store, but safety should always be a priority. Products used on your costumers should be safe, and suitable for them. Always check up on your client, if there are any allergies, for a smooth and happy procedure.

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.

Most Common Things Tattoo Artists find Annoying 0

Tattoo artists are called artists for a reason. They aren’t just some slave you pay to put ink on your skin. These people are skilled professionals who spent years to study the art, and just like everybody else tattoo artists should be treated with respect. Having a tattoo supply shop, I’ve encountered and spoke with a lot of tattoo artists. Some of them even became good friends. One of the most discussed topics aside from technicalities of tattooing, are their experiences as tattoo artists. We recently talked about some annoying things customers do when they enquire or while they get their tattoo. I’ve listed down some of these thing so you know what to avoid when dealing with tattoo artists.

Late and No Show Clients

Time is precious even for artists who don’t work regularly like the 8-5 people. And really, who wants getting stood up right? If you book an appointment with tattoo parlours or tattoo artists, make sure you show up, and when you do please be on time. If you can’t make it on time or if you suddenly felt you’re not yet ready to get a tattoo, have some courtesy and inform them ahead of time. This way they won’t waste time waiting for someone who will never show up, and they can give your slot to another customer.

Bringing the Whole Crew

I understand, getting a tattoo is an amazing experience and you want your friends to witness that unforgettable experience. But you don’t have to bring your whole neighborhood, or your whole clan. One or two is enough, not because they won’t fit in the tattoo shop, but because the noise of people chattering, asking questions, and taking photos will disturb your artists focus. The last thing you want is an artist putting a permanent ink on your skin, and getting distracted with your cheerleading squad.

Cheapskate and Hagglers

Like what I have said, tattoo artists are called artists for a reason. They make art, and art costs money. When getting a tattoo or asking for a quote, keep in mind that tattoos are no different form paintings displayed and sold at galleries. In fact, the art of tattooing may be a bit harder, because the artist uses your skin as the canvass. Aside from experience and skill, you are also paying for the equipment and the quality of ink. Next time you get a quote for a tattoo, don’t scoff and don’t negotiate. It’s rude, and no artist wants to see, feel, and hear their craft undervalued by some cheapskate.

Know-it-alls

I think everyone will agree to this (except those who are guilty of being know-it-alls of course), in classrooms, in the office, and yes even in tattoo sessions know-it-alls can be really annoying. Experienced tattoo artists know what they are doing, and they know what will make your tattoo look better. Listen to them when they say that the design should be a bit larger in size so it won’t smudge etc.

Keep these things in mind and try to avoid them when getting a tattoo, to make sure you don’t piss your tattoo artist off.