If a client comes in demanding a white ink tattoo, it can be difficult to dissuade them. Most people see freshly done white ink tattoos online and fall in love. But few realise that white ink tattoos are incredibly risky. There are so many ways in which white ink can come out badly. Even if the most stringent measures are taken, there is no telling how it will heal. Here are a few pointers to use when trying to equip your clients with the best information.
White Ink Is Too Thick
White ink is traditionally meant to add highlights around black outlines. It is thicker than other inks, so it doesn’t make a sharp, clean outline. Thick ink will also raise the tattooed skin higher than normal - an effect that could be undesirable for some.
Light Colours Fade Faster
The lighter the colour, the quicker it will fade. White is the lightest colour of the lot, meaning it will fade the fastest. Your client will have to come in regularly for touch-ups to repair broken lines and keep the tattoo bright.
Discolouration Is Likely
Those looking for bright white tattoos will be sorely disappointed. Two millimetres of skin will grow on top of the white ink and could stain the colour. If you use blue stencil ink instead of bloodline, the tattoo will pick up the blue colour and discolour to a weird green-grey colour.
Scarring
Some clients like the raised scar effect of tattoos, but others dislike it. Make sure your client knows that their tattoo is probably going to end up looking like a scar. Because the ink is so light and prone to discolouration, the tattoo might heal to look like scar tissue.
The Bottom Line
If your client has decided to go ahead with a white ink tattoo, make sure you have the best tattoo supplies possible. If you are unsure what the best ink is, or how to correctly stencil for white ink, then be sure to contact us and we will help you out.
