What’s with all the redness?

Please note that as redness dissipates (usually within two-to-three weeks), the tattoo will shift into gray tones. Healed tattoos usually heal a shade lighter than they appear when fresh. (This is due to the surface of the skin [the epidermis] closing in over the ink particulates). The redness of a fresh tattoo seems to lend to the “contrast” of a tattoo at times. The goal of an artist is to consider the healed result, applying ink tones with the final, healed product in mind. Redness in tattoos is more visible when the shading is first complete. Shading can be delicate or heavy, depending on the client's taste. No matter the level of shading, it is more common to see redness when shading is applied to a tattoo. The needle cartridge opens the skin to create a transition from dark to light ink. The redness is more likely to be seen where the lighter inks are applied (the particulates are less visible than the skin’s reaction). Once the redness subsides, you will see the very light washes of ink left behind.

Please note that some tattoos may require multiple sessions to complete, bringing them to full darkness/”saturation.” This may also apply to transitional shades, such as gray tones. Specifically, tattoos with heavy black (such as black fills, blackouts, and cover-ups) may require two or more sessions to complete black saturation. Breaking intensive work down into sessions prevents overwork, skin fatigue, and overall assists with a speedy healing process. White highlights may also be used in your tattoo, whether it is a fineline, stylized, or realism piece.

**Suspicious of the redness on your tattoo? Visit the FAQ page for information regarding spotting an infection or allergic reaction.**

What about fineline?

I specialize in working with fine lines. I work with a rotary machine, soft and steady application. A common misconception about fineline tattoos is that “they are quicker to complete”, or “since they have simple lines, they must be simple to apply!” Neither assumption is correct. Fineline requires diligent attention. The same as you would warrant any other design. Fineline tattoos are typically applied with light grays to dark grays. True black, as it is called, is used sparingly. True black is often used in areas where shadows would accumulate on the subject to achieve a stylistic result once the tattoo has healed. Dark gray and black are often used in perimeter work, so maintain the shape of the tattoo. A soft hand, a machine designed for precision work, and an artist who enjoys performing fineline tattoos. That is the secret trifecta to successful fineline tattoos.

**Concerned about fineline holding up over time? Just remember that all tattoos age. The style of tattoo you get merely determines HOW it will age. The goal with fineline tattoos is to inject just enough particles into the skin to allow for long-term visibility (without overloading the skin with ink particles). If you get a fineline tattoo, please note that they will likely need revisits in the future for maintenance purposes.** They will usually heal to a dark gray, and the gray will fade over time. For this very reason, I have my gripes with the tattoo artist saying, “bold will hold.” (But I’ll withhold my grievances for now. If I got into it, it would be a lot of talk about ink particulates and other lengthy jargon.) INSTEAD! One of my favorite quotes to keep in mind regarding tattoos: “Fine will fade. Bold will blur.” We all age; our skin is no different. In my eyes, no tattoo style is superior. What is of utmost importance is getting your tattoo in a style that you will resonate with AS it ages!

Photo-Specific Questions

So… What do your tattoos look like healed?

Below, listed in rows, are some pertinent healed examples. Please note that everyone’s healing process varies, and skin may exhibit differing results. Please abide by the provided aftercare sheets for the best final tattoo results. Please note that some of these tattoo designs also have their FRESH picture in the portfolio carousel above. Please cross-compare to see how redness, dark inks, and whites settle into the skin.

Healed Realism/Black and Grey

Healed Fineline

Fineline (With shading) healed!

Please note that this website is a work in progress… I will continue to add to this section, with both fresh and healed photos when I can! Thank you very much for viewing my portfolio!