White Ink Tattoos: An Emerging Trend

An emerging body modification trend involves the use of nothing but white ink for tattoos. Granted, many people intend for their tattoos to be a bold expression with vivid colors. White ink, however, provides an inconspicuous and delicate design when used without any other colors. Solid white ink tattoos aren't common, although they have become increasingly popular within the past few years.

Celebrities like Lindsay Lohan have brought media attention to white ink in recent years. Lohan has a white ink tattoo on her wrist that reads, "breathe." This body art has been photographed by many paparazzi and it is an example of a quality white ink tattoo that coordinates perfectly with a person's skin type. Why is this important? Because white ink tattoos don't always "take."

One of the reasons why white ink tattoos aren't more common is the fact that many tattoo artists refuse to do them. This refusal can be attributed to the fact that white ink can quickly fade to obscurity. Strangely enough, those with fair skin seem to hold white ink better than those with contrasting dark skin. This has to do with how deep the person's pigment is. Regardless of skin color, however, some people merely can't hold a vivid white color for very long.

If your tattoo artist has refused to accommodate you with an all-white ink design, he or she may be concerned that you will become upset if the tattoo fades. This is a valid concern and your artist could very well have your best interest in mind. If the artist is rude about the matter, however, you should find someone who will communicate in a more constructive way. Too many customers settle with a surly artist and that is a shame, as many artists are respectful of their customers' questions and requests.

Despite the controversy surrounding white ink tattoos in the body modification industry, there are many people who are extremely satisfied with their white ink body art. Those who hold the ink well and who take proper care of a tattoo should see great results. Of course, touch-ups may be necessary later in life, but that can be said for any tattoo at some point.

If you would like something unique or inconspicuous in the form of a tattoo, white ink may be the way to go. Know that the white ink may not hold its initial vividness forever. If you are aware of this risk and would still like to go forward, then you should interview reputable tattoo artists until you find one who is willing to perform the job. Do not be afraid to ask what you feel are "stupid questions," as this is your body that is about to be permanently altered.

There are certain factors that can help to ensure a better white ink design. For one, you need to seek the talents of an artist who uses good ink. Cheap ink can ruin any tattoo, whether it is white or not. Sometimes, the use of a stencil can stain the pure white ink, which results in a murky gray color. This isn't the look you are going for, so your artist may decide to free hand the design. Again, you need a talented artist for this to look its best.

It might be prudent to try a smaller white ink design somewhere on your body to test how your skin reacts to the ink. If this smaller design is successful and holds the color well, then you may want to proceed with a larger, more expensive design. Regardless of what you decide, a white ink tattoo can be a unique personal expression that you will cherish for many years to come.