Dry Healing vs. Moist Healing: What's the Best Way to Heal a Tattoo?

Michael Hollman
You've just gotten a new tattoo, and you start researching aftercare. As you fall down the internet rabbit hole, you'll find two completely opposite schools of thought. One group swears...

Can You Use Vaseline on a New Tattoo? (Why It's a Bad Idea)

Michael Hollman
It’s the iconic blue and white tub found in virtually every medicine cabinet in America. For over a century, Vaseline, the original petroleum jelly, has been the go-to for everything...

Tattoo Style Guide: Traditional vs. Neo-Traditional

Michael Hollman
You're in a consultation with a tattoo artist, trying to describe your vision. You want a tattoo of a wolf, but you want it to look... well, like a classic,...

How Much Should You Tip Your Tattoo Artist? A Guide to Proper Etiquette

Michael Hollman
The final wipe-down is done. Your artist turns you towards the mirror, and you see it—the perfect tattoo you've been dreaming of. You're thrilled with the result. As you walk...

How to Heal a Tattoo Fast: Your Ultimate Guide to an Efficient Recovery

Michael Hollman
You’ve just left the studio with an incredible new tattoo. It looks perfect, and you can't wait to show it off. Now, the two-to-four-week healing journey begins before you can...

Can You Go Tanning After Getting a Tattoo? (The Answer is a Hard No)

Michael Hollman
It's a beautiful, warm August here in Portland, and many of us are trying to get that perfect summer glow before the fall clouds inevitably roll back in. You've just...

Does Tattoo Numbing Cream Affect the Ink or Healing?

Michael Hollman
The promise of a pain-free tattoo is incredibly appealing. For many, the only thing holding them back from their dream tattoo is the fear of the needle. Tattoo numbing cream...

How Long Does It Take for a Finger Tattoo to Heal? A Realistic Guide

Michael Hollman
Delicate, trendy, and perfectly placed for a subtle statement, finger tattoos have exploded in popularity. Whether it's a tiny symbol on the side of a finger, a delicate vine wrapping...

How Long Do You Have to Wait to Work Out After a Tattoo?

Michael Hollman
You’ve just added a new piece of art to your skin, and you're feeling great. For many of us here in active-lifestyle-loving Portland, the first question after leaving the tattoo...

Tattoo Aftercare Deep Dive: What's the Difference Between a Balm and a Lotion?

Michael Hollman
You're getting ready for your new tattoo, and you know you need a good moisturizer to get you through the healing process. You head to the store and are faced...

Can You Get a Tattoo If You Have Eczema? A Guide to Getting Inked Safely

Michael Hollman
Living with eczema means being extra thoughtful and careful about what you put on your skin. You become an expert in reading ingredient labels and avoiding potential triggers. So when...

What Does It Mean When a Tattoo Is "Bubbling"?

Michael Hollman
You're a few days into healing your new tattoo, diligently following your aftercare routine. But as you go to apply your lotion, you notice something strange. Parts of your tattoo...