Denver Tattoo Cover Up: What to Look For

Blasting over an old tattoo with a new one is not the only way to go about a Denver tattoo cover up

Let’s face it, most of us have a tattoo that we’re not fond of. Whether it’s an old tattoo that no longer meshes with our current self, a past lover’s name, or simply something we’d rather get rid of, many people find themselves looking for a Denver tattoo cover up. By now, you may have heard that simply covering a tattoo with a new one is NOT your only option. By removing a tattoo, you can enjoy your skin being free and clear of something you’re not in love with anymore…or you can get a completely new piece from the artist of your choice. Let’s dive in.

Is covering an old tattoo with a new one your best choice?

There’s a lot of reasons why someone may want to cover up an old tattoo and I caution those looking for a quick fix no matter how badly you want that old tattoo gone. Some cover ups on small, faded out tattoos can work really well. For other tattoos that may be harder to cover, you may end up with a mesh of two tattoos after a couple years, where you can see your old tattoo underneath the new one.

Since removing 2 tattoos is nearly impossible, this becomes a permanent decision. So if you have any doubt about whether or not your tattoo can be completely covered and look awesome long term, you may want to consider laser tattoo removal.

Do your research before you commit

It’s important to research the laser tattoo removal clinic you go to before you start getting treatments. There is a massive difference in education amongst laser tattoo removal specialists and the laser that is being used. Ask your tech about potential side effects especially if your goal is to get a tattoo cover up in the future.

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A scar from laser tattoo removal (not done at Black Sage Laser)

Think about trying to ask your favorite tattoo artist to tattoo over a permanent scar. That would be difficult for them, if not impossible, right? This is why you need to fully understand your laser tech’s view on blistering before you begin treatment with them. If they tell you blistering is normal and you’ll likely blister after each session…RUN! These blisters WILL cause permanent damage to your skin, and even if you don’t want to get a tattoo cover up later you will be left with scars for life.

Ask your laser tech about what kind of laser they’re using and do your research online before you get any treatments done. There are lasers out there (like the PicoSure) that are known to cause blisters and scarring. All laser clinics have different equipment and different levels of training. A lot of clinics are high pressure sales environments. If they push you to purchase a package up front, be wary. Check out this image of a scar left by a laser (NOT mine). This is permanent skin damage. Yikes!

Working with a Denver cover up tattoo artist

For a Denver tattoo cover up, we work with many tattoo shops across the state of Colorado. In fact, a huge chunk of my clients are referred to me by their chosen tattoo artists to lighten or remove a tattoo to prep it to be covered. These tattoo artists refer clients to me because they know I have a deeper level of understanding of ink pigments and how they sit in the skin over time.

After all, Black Sage Laser is an extension of Black Sage Studio located right down the hall, and I’m married to a highly talented tattoo artist. I also perform laser tattoo removal on the actual tattoo artists who refer clients to me!

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Denver tattoo cover up (Artist credit to Melis Fusco of Black Sage Studio)

The choice is up to you- just do your research

If you have questions about what the process is like, check out my laser tattoo removal FAQ. It’s a good start to understanding what it’s all about and what to expect.

In the end, it’s all about trusting who you choose to perform an important procedure on your skin. If you’re looking for a Denver tattoo cover up, make sure you choose the right removal tech with the right equipment. The integrity of your skin depends on it!

Cheers,

Jim