Vanliga frågor

How does a cover-up work?

If you've decided to get a cover-up or are just curious, you might be wondering, “How does a cover-up work?”

Let’s start with the skin where the old tattoo is located. The skin consists of different layers: the epidermis (outer layer), the dermis (middle layer), and the subcutis (inner layer). If the tattoo was applied correctly, it sits in the middle layer, the dermis. If a new tattoo is placed over the old one, it will also be located in the dermis. This means that the old and new ink will partially mix, either immediately or over time.

Because the inks mix together, a tattoo artist must take the old ink into account when creating a new tattoo. If you think of the color wheel and how mixed colors transform into new colors, an old blue tattoo mixed with new red ink may turn purple. If there is a lot of black in the old tattoo, it will be challenging to create bright, vibrant colors in the new tattoo, as dark colors dominate over light ones. Over time, the colors can blend if the right groundwork isn’t laid.

The process of going from an old tattoo to a cover-up can look like this:

1. Choosing a new design
2. Meeting with a laser specialist
3. Choosing a tattoo artist (who can create your design)
4. Getting your new tattoo

1. Choosing a new design

If you want to do a cover-up, you will need to choose a larger design that can effectively cover the old one. Not all designs are suitable for a cover-up, so make sure to select the new design with the old one in mind. Read more about which tattoos can be successfully covered here.

2. Meeting with a laser specialist

Schedule a consultation with a laser specialist to get advice on how many laser treatments are needed before a cover-up tattoo can be done. Share your ideas, and the laser specialist will provide recommendations on whether it’s possible to proceed with a cover-up or if the entire tattoo should be removed first.

3. Choosing a tattoo artist (who can create your design)

Once your skin has healed from the laser treatments, it’s time to book an appointment with a tattoo artist. It’s advisable to choose someone who has experience with cover-ups and can help you design the new tattoo so that none of the old ink shines through or mixes incorrectly.

4. Getting your new tattoo

The final step is, of course, to get the cover-up tattoo and enjoy how your old tattoo has received a new life or been replaced.

The reasons for getting a cover-up can vary from person to person. Our laser specialists are here to assist you along the way to ensure you are satisfied with your new tattoo.