Often our Seattle tattoo removal patients come to us loving the idea of their tattoo, but for whatever reason the tattoo just didn’t come out as envisioned.  Tattoos can be beautiful works of art when done right by an experienced artist and cared for properly.  But the reality is tattoos sometimes don’t come out as expected. Below are several common factors that can contribute to regrettable tattoos.

Alcohol

Most reputable tattoo shops require their customers to sign a release form before they get a tattoo. The release form includes the customer’s agreement that they have not consumed alcohol immediately prior to the tattoo. No decent artist or shop would recommend or allow those who have been drinking to get a tattoo. Still, some less reputable shops ignore it.  And many tattoos are done at home among friends and family where alcohol is consumed. 

Consuming alcohol before or during the inking process can lead to making a bad, or regretable decision.  It also increases the chance of passing out, getting sick, or moving during a tattoo which can effect the outcome. 

Reaction to the Ink

People are allergic to many things: pollen, insects, pets, foods, soaps… and tattoo ink. Allergic reactions to tattoo ink may be as mild as an itch that comes and goes or a more severe reaction where the inked skin has a raised or scaly, persistently itchy rash.  Skin reactions can occur immediately after the tattoo or anywhere from days to months later. In extreme reactions symptoms only subside once the ink is removed.

Poor Aftercare

Properly caring for a fresh tattoo significantly effects the outcome. Most good tattoo artists go over the details of aftercare instructions with their clients before sending them home.  It is important that you follow the instructions for aftercare.  Letting a tattoo dry out, picking and scratching at it, using harsh chemicals on it, and exposing it to sun all compromise the healing process and may result in a disfigured tattoo and associated scarring.

Bad Application

A tattoo can only be as good as the artist applying it. Carefully search for a reputable, talented and experienced tattoo artist.  Ask to see their portfolio and get recommendations.  It’s important that you go to someone you trust.  Some artists are heavy-handed with their machines, and can damage the skin during the application by causing blowouts, cuts on the skin, thick scabs, or holidays (scar tissue that forms on the tattooed skin while it is healing which can leave what looks like blank spots on the tattoo). Other artists are too light-handed, leaving their tattoos unsaturated and quick to fade. 

These are unfortunately common reasons why tattoos come out poorly or don’t meet expectations. Whatever the cause for the inferior tat, you don’t have to live with it.  Having a tattoo professionally removed is achievable. 

Here at Sound Tattoo Removal we are here to answer any questions you may have about tattoo removal.  Contact us today!