Skin As Canvas: The art and process of tattoos, explained by experts

To state the obvious, it’s important to know what you want before getting started but if you’re struggling with a final design, Noel advises to start with a conversation. “I want them to talk about their personality—tell me who you are and I can help create something that suits you the best.” A rule of thumb that artists can agree on is that detailed designs don’t fit with small tattoos. It may look great right after, but once it heals, the fine lines and details merge, creating an awkward blob on your skin. Placement also matters as not all tattoos would look great in specific areas. “Clients need to be educated. They would see a tattoo on Pinterest and they’d like something similar but the placement they want just doesn’t work,” says Camille of 9Lives Tattoo Studio.

Once you have a design you’re sure about, it’s time to look for an artist who specialises in that art style. There is no one-size-fits-all to choosing a tattoo artist—some prefer to focus on neotraditional art styles while others concentrate on hyper-realistic aesthetics—so make sure to do your research. “Even though all tattoo artists are talented, we still have our own styles,” quips Camille. Some artists also have their non-negotiables. For instance, Noel strictly adheres to his values of not tattooing significant others’ names. “I know the risk that’s involved, so I don’t want to partake in it just for the money.” 

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Before sitting on the chair, you need to prepare yourself physically lest you pass out. Sufficient sleep, hydration, and food before the appointment are crucial to keep your blood sugar stable while also minimising pain. “These factors will determine how a tattoo would feel. Some people might not feel pain during but would pass out because of anxiety or the sensation,” says Noel.

This preparation also gives you time to clear any doubts you may have about getting a tattoo. “A tattoo is forever. It’s going to be on your skin forever, so you have to be sure about the design and placement,” says Camille.

The process of getting a tattoo can be treated like getting your hair or nails done, albeit with a little pain. You sit on the chair and speak to your artist for hours about anything and everything. Keeping the conversation going answers any questions you may have about your tattoo and can take the edge off. Always let them know if you feel any sort of discomfort or anxiety as taking breaks is a part of it.

“There’s a lot of communication between client and artist during the process. It’s an intimate art style. I also want to make sure that they’re satisfied with what they’re getting… Getting tattooed involves a lot of pain and some people would feel like passing out but won’t tell me so I really have to keep asking to ensure they’re comfortable,” says Noel.

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Possibly the most important step of the journey, aftercare defines how your tattoo will heal and look. Your new ink is an open wound and should be treated as such, this means keeping it clean and moisturised. Artists will often put a plastic film to keep it safe and give you an ointment to apply once it’s dried. Make sure to wash it often with lukewarm water and unscented soap to prevent infections. Crucial don’ts, when you have a fresh tattoo, is to never go swimming until it’s fully healed. Keep it away from the sun for a few weeks to prevent fading and you’re all set. 

The tattoo industry in the Philippines has come a long way. Being stigmatised for years, it has evolved into a form of expressing oneself. “There’s this idea that tattoo artists are intimidating… Believe it or not, a lot of us are dorks. We’re just kids who like to draw that use a more painful approach,” says Noel.

With areas such as Cubao Expo and Poblacion attracting more artists and patrons, the industry’s future is looking bright. “A lot of tattoo shops are popping up everywhere. Even though it brings plenty of competition, there’s a surplus of clients now. I’d say that the community is thriving and as artists, we work hand in hand to make it grow,” shares Camille.

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