DO YOU DO (SCAR) COVER-UPS?

A Tailored Approach.

Cover-ups are always approached on a case-by-case basis. Every existing tattoo is different, and factors like size, placement, color, and saturation all play a role in what can realistically be achieved.

If you’re considering a cover-up, the first step is simple, send through clear, well-lit photos of your current tattoo with your booking request. From there, we can assess feasibility and advise you on the best direction.

“A good cover-up is about creating something that works better, not just hiding what's already there.”

Tattooing Over Scars.

Tattooing over scars can often be possible, but it requires the right conditions and careful evaluation.

Before moving forward, there are a few important things to understand so you know what to expect and how to get the best result.

Healing Time Matters

For us to safely tattoo over a scar, it needs to be fully healed, not just closed.

In practical terms, this means:

• The scar is flat and settled

• The color has faded to pale rather than red

• The area is no longer sensitive

  
  

In most cases, this level of healing takes at least 12 to 24 months after the injury or surgery. Even when a scar looks healed on the surface, it can continue to mature underneath for up to two years.

“Waiting gives your skin the stability it needs, and that makes all the difference in how a tattoo heals.”

Why We Recommend Waiting

Scar tissue behaves very differently from normal skin, especially while it’s still changing.

If tattooing is done too early:

• Ink may not hold properly

• The result can appear patchy, blurred, or uneven

• There’s a higher risk of irritation or poor healing

Allowing the scar to fully mature gives us a much more reliable surface to work with and leads to a stronger, cleaner result overall.

What We’ll Need From You

To give you an accurate assessment, we’ll ask for a few key details before booking anything in. This includes:

• A clear photo of the scar in good lighting

• When the scar first formed or when stitches were removed

• Whether it’s still itching, changing color, or feels different from the surrounding skin

These details help us understand how your skin is behaving and whether it’s ready to move forward.

In-Person Assessment

Even after reviewing photos, we’ll often recommend an in-studio consultation.

This allows us to:

• Confirm the scar is stable enough to tattoo

• Assess texture and condition more accurately

• Ensure the design will work with the area

• Understand your healing patterns and expectations

Risks & Considerations

Tattooing over scars can be more unpredictable than tattooing normal skin, and it’s important to be aware of that going in.

Some key things to keep in mind:

• Scar tissue can absorb ink unevenly, resulting in lighter or inconsistent areas

• Certain scars, especially raised or keloid scars, may not be suitable and can worsen

• Healing may take longer or behave differently than expected

This doesn’t mean it can’t be done, only that it requires the right approach and realistic expectations.

The Best Results Come with Patience

For the strongest outcome, we always recommend waiting longer rather than rushing. Taking the time to let your scar fully mature allows us to design something that works with your skin, not against it.

“The goal is to create something that sits naturally with the scar.”

Getting Started

If you’re interested in a cover-up or scar tattoo, feel free to send through your photos when you’re ready. From there, we’ll guide you through the next steps and help you find the best approach for your skin.