Minimalist tattoos are all the rage, and despite their small size, they carry with them a big meaning. If this weren’t the case, then there’d be no point in getting them. Irrespective of whether this is your very first tattoo or your tenth – getting inked doesn’t always need to mean being flashy in your choice.
This ‘less is more’ adage may easily be applied to other creative spaces in life, and those with an artistic flair will probably confirm this. For example, in website creation, web designers will be the first to confirm that while a layout should be captivating, it needn’t be over-the-top, because this will make navigation and overall usability unnecessarily complicated.
Back to minimalist tattoos…probably the reason why they’ve become so popular is because they offer a refreshing alternative to the traditional intricate and elaborate designs, conveying a lot with very little. Whatever the reason you’re going for it, here are five pointers to consider when opting for a minimalist tattoo.
#1. Find A Tattooist Who Specializes In Minimalist Tattoos
Though they may appear simpler, minimalist tattoos require a different skill set compared to more intricate designs. A great minimalist tattooist needs to be experienced in handling a one-point needle to nail those fine-line tattoos. Because in this style, it’s all about precision, and a tiny slip-up from a newbie artist could ruin the whole thing.
So, research is key here. Look for artists who have a portfolio of minimalist work that resonates with your aesthetic preferences. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends who have had minimalist tattoos done.
#2. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions To Your Chosen Tattoo Artist
Once you’ve selected a tattoo artist, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You might want to bring along photos for inspiration to your consultation. Plus, make sure the shop is licensed and don’t forget to ask about their sterilization process.
At the same time, be receptive to the artist’s input. They are industry experts, with much more experience under their belt, so they can provide valuable insights into design, placement, and size. They might even help you refine your concept and ensure it translates well into a minimalist design. A collaborative approach often leads to the best results.
#3. Consider The Placement Of The Tattoo
Where you place your minimalist tattoo matters a lot. Think about where you’d like it to be – is it something you want to showcase or keep discreet? Besides aesthetics, where you place it can also influence your future tattoo choices. Remember that covering your arm with a bunch of small fine-line minimalist tattoos might end up looking crowded, unlike having one well-thought-out design. So, it’s highly recommended to pick a smaller area for your minimalist tattoo such as a finger, wrist, forearm, collarbone, or ankle. Ultimately, make sure that the placement suits your comfort and style.
#4. Think About The Future: How Will The Tattoo Look Over The Years?
Since minimalist tattoos put less ink into the skin, they’re bound to fade faster than a bold line which uses more ink. But if you choose a professional artist who knows their craft well, they would use high-quality ink and tools that penetrate past the first layer of your skin so that it’s less prone to fading and aging over time. Unprotected and regular exposure to UV rays can also lead to faster tattoo aging…and this takes us to the final piece of advice.
#5. Aftercare Is Key
Once you’ve got your minimalist tattoo, proper aftercare is crucial. Your tattoo artist will provide you with instructions on how to care of your new ink. If we had to boil down the staples of good aftercare to three key tips, they would be the following:
a. Keep it clean: Right after you get your tattoo, remember to keep it clean and dry for the first few days. Don’t dunk it in water or let it get too wet; just give it a gentle wash with mild soap and warm water.
b. Apply moisturizer wisely: A few days in, you can start putting on some moisturizer to prevent your tattoo from getting all dried up. However, don’t go overboard – too much lotion can make the ink fade faster. Opt for a plain, non-greasy lotion or one made specifically for tattoos to keep your ink looking fresh.
c. Protect it from sunlight: Sunlight is a big culprit when it comes to tattoo fading, so be sure to protect your tattoo from direct sun or use sunscreen if you’re hanging out in the sun for a while. Grab some good, non-greasy sunscreen to make sure it doesn’t clog the skin next to your tattoo.
