White
ink tattoos are a great example of how body art is becoming more
unique. These interesting tats are much different than your traditional
tattoo. Knowing the differences with this type of tat and considering
possible designs can help you decide if it's right for you.
White
ink tattoos do not follow the usual tattoo process of stenciling and
outlining in black. Instead, the tattoo itself is completely done with
white ink, leaving a ghostly image that looks quite different from a
traditional tattoo. These tattoos can look like brands (or
scarification), or they can appear to be very subtle. This can be a good
alternative for someone who wants a tattoo but can't have obvious body
art in their work environment. The white ink used for tattoos is not the
same ink you might have seen used for mixing shades in a color tat.
Instead, it is a thicker, high quality white ink that is specially made
to stand out on its own.
A stencil can be used with a white ink
tat, or the tattoo can be done freehand. If a stencil is used, the
artist must be careful to make sure the ink from the stencil does not
mix with the white ink being used - this can dull the brightness of the
ink. Also, white tattoos can require several passes over the area to
make sure the white ink sinks fully into the skin. White is not as
likely to be absorbed by skin as black or colored inks.
While
tats done with white ink are gaining in popularity, some issues still
need to be worked out with this type of tattoo. Many people, especially
those with darker skin tones, cannot absorb enough of the white ink for
it to appear brightly on their skin. Other issues include
Some
individuals may also find they have a reaction to the white ink. This
is much more common than a reaction to black tattoo ink. In some cases,
the white ink areas swell, itch and may even ooze from the tattoo. This
can be a sign that your skin is actually rejecting the white ink, and
you may end up with no tattoo in that area as a result.
Another
issue with white tattoos is that they are not ideal for areas of the
body that will be exposed to the sun and weather elements. Harsh
household chemicals can also damage a white tat. White ink can turn
quite dull if frequently exposed to the sun, so it's important to choose
an area that will be covered when outdoors such as your chest, back or
even the underside of your arm. White ink is not a good idea for hand
tattoos or tats in other exposed places.
What
sort of tattoo looks good in white ink? Simple designs are easier for
the artist to ink and less likely to have complications. Feminine
designs look great in white and appeal to women of all ages and
backgrounds. Since tattoos are permanent, choose wisely and think about
your decision until you are completely confident with your choice.
Lindsay
Lohan is one celebrity who wears a small white ink tat on the inside of
her wrist that says Breathe. Another celebrity who has a tattoo done in
white is Kate Moss. Her tattoo is a series of white hearts running up
the side of her body.
Getting
a white-colored tattoo can be a good way to have a tattoo that's
special to you. Since they are not easy to spot, they will most likely
only be seen by those that you show. This meaningful tat can be a
statement of your personal mantra, or simply reflect your unique
personality.
