Can You Use Tanning Lotion on a Healed Tattoo?

Michael Hollman
You have a beautifully healed tattoo, and you also like to maintain a healthy-looking tan. This common scenario leads to a very important question for any ink enthusiast: Can you use...
How to Take Care of a Tattoo on Your Back by Yourself: A Complete Guide

How to Take Care of a Tattoo on Your Back by Yourself: A Complete Guide

Michael Hollman
(Banner Image: Back piece in progress by a master of traditional black and grey, @acdpdx at @historictattoo in Portland, OR) You've just gotten a new back tattoo. It's a massive,...

What to Expect When Getting Your First Large-Scale Tattoo: A Complete Guide

Michael Hollman
You've got a few tattoos, you love the art form, and you're ready to take the ultimate leap: your first large-scale tattoo. Whether it's a full sleeve, a back piece,...

A Guide to Realistic Flower and Botanical Tattoos

Michael Hollman
There are few tattoo styles as breathtakingly beautiful and timeless as realism. And within that world, realistic flower and botanical tattoos stand out for their delicate, lifelike detail. These are...

How to Heal a Tattoo on Your Stomach: A Complete Guide

Michael Hollman
A stomach tattoo is a powerful and bold statement piece. It's a large, central canvas that allows for incredible, sprawling designs. But this prime placement comes with a reputation for...
What is a "Traditional" Tattoo Flash Day? A Guide to Spontaneous Ink

What is a "Traditional" Tattoo Flash Day? A Guide to Spontaneous Ink

Michael Hollman
You're scrolling through your favorite tattoo shop's social media, and you see an announcement: "Friday the 13th Flash Day!" or "Halloween Flash Event!" The post is flooded with comments from...
A Guide to "Matching" Tattoos That Aren't Identical

A Guide to "Matching" Tattoos That Aren't Identical

Michael Hollman
(Banner Image: Matching tats from the flash of @tony_t_tattoo and tattooed by @tattoosbykoala (left) and @missngnmbr (right) at the world famous @lombardstreettattoo) Getting a tattoo with a partner, a sibling,...

How to Design a Forearm Sleeve That Flows: A Complete Guide

Michael Hollman
The forearm sleeve is one of the most popular and impactful tattoos a person can get. It's a highly visible canvas that's perfect for telling a story or showcasing a...

Can a Tattoo Aggravate a Skin Allergy? A Guide for Sensitive Skin

Michael Hollman
For someone with a known skin allergy, like eczema (atopic dermatitis) or a sensitivity to certain metals or fragrances, the decision to get a tattoo comes with a layer of...

The Risks of Getting a Tattoo From an Unlicensed Artist: A Safety Warning

Michael Hollman
You want a new tattoo, and you're looking for a deal. You see someone on social media tattooing out of their home, offering a much lower price than a professional...

Is it Safe to Use a Sauna or Steam Room with a New Tattoo?

Michael Hollman
You've just gotten a new tattoo, and you're navigating the crucial first few weeks of the tattoo healing stages. If part of your regular health routine includes relaxing in a sauna...

Can You Get a Tattoo With a Low Pain Tolerance? A Complete Guide

Michael Hollman
You love the artistry, the self-expression, and the beauty of tattoos. You've spent hours saving references and dreaming of the perfect design. There's just one huge, daunting barrier standing in...