White Ink Tattoos

Curious about white tattoos? Here’s a FAQ:

What’s up with white ink? White ink tattoos are simply tattoos created with strictly white ink which heals into a subtle effect appearing, as one collector put it, “a controlled scar.” Of course, all tattoos are controlled scars but white ink resembles the lighter pigmentation one would would see on one’s skin from a naturally occuring scar.

How is it going to look on me? As with all tattoos, pigment is deposited into the dermis and one’s own melanin will overlay that ink, adding a subtle tone. The brightness of the white ink depends on how much melanin one has in their complexion. Healed white ink tattoos range from bright white to tawny beige to a warm golden amber on darker complexions.

How long does it take to heal? White ink is the thickest of tattoo pigments so it will often take a full two weeks to heal. A slight pink cast can last up to three weeks as the capillaries repair themselves. White ink is more translucent than darker pigments so full healing is not as clearly apparent on traditional tattoos.

How long does white ink last? We’ve seen white and UV ink last as long as black and colored ink… and we’ve seen it disappear after one season in Dubai! It all depends on placement and exposure.

What makes white ink fade? All tattoos are subject to deterioration from two major factors: sun exposure and weight gain.

I have a darker complexion, are their any other considerations that I should be aware of? A darker complexion means more melanin will overlay your white pigment, so multiple sessions are recommended. Also, our naturally occuring pigmentation can concentrate in areas requiring flexibility, like the wrist and elbow joints. This is called hyperpigmentation and can “goldify” your white ink. Ask your dermatologist if you are a candidate for hyperpigmentation and they can prescribe you a topical remedy.