Tattoos on Dark Skin? Absolutely! • Portland BIPOC tattoo artist
Misconceptions
Tattooing on darker skin isn’t harder; it’s just different. Some artists, especially those without much experience with BIPOC clients, might not understand how to adjust their technique for richer skin tones. This can lead to colors that don’t pop like they should or designs that don’t hold up over time. But when you find the right artist, someone who knows how to make colors shine on your skin, the results can be incredible.
How to Choose Your Artist
If you’re thinking about getting a tattoo as a BIPOC, here’s what to keep in mind:
Check Their Portfolio: Look for an artist who’s worked on a variety of skin tones. A diverse portfolio is a good sign that they know how to make tattoos look amazing on everyone. Check for a variety of skin tones in their healed photos, specifically!
Talk About Colors: Don’t be shy—ask about their experience with tattoos on dark skin. A good artist will happily chat with you about how they adapt their process to keep those colors bright and bold.
Design Tips: Your artist should be ready to collaborate with you on design tweaks that’ll make your tattoo stand out. Whether it’s using thicker lines, high-contrast elements, or certain shades that complement your skin, these little details make all the difference. An experienced artist would be open to collaborating while also giving their professional opinion and techniques.
Feel Comfortable: This is your tattoo, and your experience matters. Pick someone who listens, respects your input, and makes you feel at ease throughout the process.
Why Plush Tattoo Was Born
At Plush Tattoo, we’re all about making sure everyone—no matter their skin tone—walks out with a tattoo they’re proud of. Toni is a BIPOC tattoo artist as well as a collector himself. He knows firsthand how frustrating it can be to find an artist who understands your skin. With color tattoos all over, Toni’s faced more than his fair share of racism in the tattoo industry. That’s why Plush was created: to be the change we want to see and to make sure all our clients feel safe, respected, and heard.
If you’re looking for an inclusive and safe tattoo shop as a person of color, we’d love to be considered for your next project!
