BLACKOUT TATTOO INFORMATION SHEET

Blackout tattoos are bold, striking, and unique, but they require patience, multiple sessions, and careful aftercare. Please read this guide to understand what to expect before, during, and after your blackout tattoo.

1. How Long Does a Blackout Tattoo Take?

Unlike smaller tattoos, a blackout project is a long process that varies from person to person. Here’s why:

Skin Type & Ink Retention: Everyone’s skin reacts differently to ink. Some skin absorbs ink well, while others may require more passes to get solid coverage.

Body Response: The body can start rejecting ink midway through a session, meaning some areas may require multiple layers to achieve full saturation.

Pain Tolerance & Session Duration: Sitting for long sessions is physically and mentally demanding. If you need to tap out early, it may extend the overall time to complete your blackout.

Healing Between Sessions: Healing is crucial between sessions. Rushing the process can lead to uneven saturation, excessive scarring, or ink rejection.

Since every blackout tattoo is different, there is no set timeline for completion. Some projects take weeks, while others may require months or even longer.

2. Complications of Blackout Tattoos & Healing

Blackout tattoos are more intense than standard tattoos, which can lead to specific challenges:

Ink Rejection: Some areas may push out ink, requiring additional sessions to ensure even coverage.

Swelling & Bruising: Large-scale tattooing puts stress on the skin, leading to prolonged swelling or bruising in some cases.

Healing Variability: Some areas heal faster than others, and uneven healing can affect the final result.

Itching & Dryness: Larger tattooed areas often experience more intense itching and dryness during healing. Picking or scratching can damage the tattoo.

3. Aftercare Advice for Blackout Tattoos

Proper aftercare is essential for the best results.

Immediate Aftercare (First 48 Hours)

Leave the wrap on for at least a few hours.

Wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

Gently wash the area with lukewarm water and unscented soap—do not scrub.

Pat dry with a clean paper towel (no rubbing).

Dry heal for the first few days or until your skin starts to heal over and become tight.

Please make sure to clean off your cream properly before applying more to stop pores getting clogged and bacteria forming.

You can re-wrap your blackout tattoo with a puppy pad or clingfilm for the first couple of nights to stop damage to your sheets and dirt entering the open wound.

First 2 Weeks

Moisturize lightly 2-3 times a day with a tattoo-safe lotion.

Avoid sun exposure—UV rays can cause fading or irritation.

No swimming, saunas, or soaking—keep the area dry.

Expect peeling & scabbing—do NOT pick or scratch.

Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid irritation.

Long-Term Care

Use sunscreen on healed blackout tattoos to prevent fading.

Stay hydrated & moisturized to keep the skin healthy and the tattoo looking fresh.

Check for uneven healing—some areas may need touch-ups.

4. Touch-Up Requirements

Touch-ups are often necessary for blackout tattoos to ensure even saturation.

Some areas may heal lighter than others, requiring an additional pass.

Ink rejection can create patchiness, which can only be corrected through extra sessions.

Touch-ups should be scheduled after full healing, which may take several months.

Proper aftercare reduces the need for excessive touch-ups, so follow instructions carefully.

Blackout tattoos are a commitment, and healing is a journey. Trust the process, follow aftercare instructions, and be patient with your body.

If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out.