at home laser vs professional

HOW TO DO A STICK AND POKE TATTOO AT HOME

Tattoos have been a prominent form of self-expression for centuries, allowing individuals to permanently etch their stories, beliefs, and personal style onto their skin. While many are familiar with the buzzing of tattoo machines and the professional tattoo studio experience, there is a growing trend that embraces a more organic and intimate approach: stick and poke tattoos. As an ancient technique that has found its place in modern times, stick and poke tattoos offer a unique and personalized experience for both the artist and the wearer. In this article, we will explore the artistry, history, safety considerations, and the growing popularity of stick and poke tattoos, shedding light on this captivating form of body art.

What Is a Stick and Poke Tattoo?

A stick and poke tattoo, also known as a hand-poked tattoo or DIY tattoo, is a form of tattooing that involves manually puncturing the skin with a needle or instrument held by hand. Unlike traditional machine tattoos, which use an electric needle to rapidly inject ink into the skin, stick and poke tattoos are done manually, one dot or line at a time, by dipping a sterile needle in ink and then using it to puncture the skin.

The process of creating a stick and poke tattoo can be more time-consuming than traditional machine tattoos, as each individual needle prick needs to be carefully placed and spaced out to achieve the desired effect. Additionally, stick and poke tattoos may not have the same level of precision as machine tattoos, as they rely on the skill and steadiness of the artist’s hand.

Some people prefer stick and poke tattoos because they are more affordable and accessible than traditional machine tattoos, as they can be done at home with minimal equipment. Others appreciate the artistic quality of stick and poke tattoos, as they can have a more handcrafted, personal feel.

History of Stick and Poke Tattoos

The origins of stick and poke tattoos can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, where evidence suggests that they were used for cosmetic and therapeutic purposes. In Japan, hand-poked tattoos were used to mark criminals and outcasts during the Edo period (1603-1868), and eventually became recognized as an art form known as irezumi.

In Western culture, stick and poke tattoos gained popularity among sailors in the 19th century, who would often tattoo each other while at sea using makeshift materials such as needles and India ink. This form of tattooing continued to spread throughout various subcultures, including punk and DIY communities, where it became associated with anti-establishment values and a rejection of mainstream tattoo culture.

Despite its underground status, stick and poke tattooing has recently gained more mainstream recognition, thanks in part to social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. Many artists are now using this technique to create intricate and detailed designs, and there has been a growing interest in the unique aesthetic qualities that can only be achieved through hand-poking.

how to do a stick and poke

Giving yourself or receiving a stick and poke tattoo requires some skill and preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it safely:

Step 1: Gather your supplies

You will need a sterilized needle, tattoo ink, a disposable cup for the ink, rubbing alcohol, gloves, and a clean towel.

Step 2: Prepare the area

Clean the area where you plan to place the tattoo with soap and water, then disinfect it with rubbing alcohol. Put on your gloves.

Step 3: Create the design

Draw the design you want on the area where you plan to place the tattoo using a non-toxic pen.

Step 4: Begin tattooing

Dip the needle in the ink and begin poking it into the skin, following your design. Continue until the entire design is complete.

Step 5: Clean up

Clean the area with rubbing alcohol and apply an ointment like petroleum jelly to help the healing process.

Pros and Cons

Stick and poke tattoos have their own set of pros and cons compared to traditional machine-made tattoos:

Pros:

  • Cost-effective: Stick and poke tattoos are much cheaper than traditional tattoos.
  • Simple and easy: The tools required for stick and poke tattoos are readily available and easy to use.
  • Unique style: Stick and poke tattoos have a distinct look that sets them apart from traditional tattoos.

Cons:

  • Risk of infection: Because stick and poke tattoos are done manually, there is a higher risk of infection if proper precautions are not taken.
  • Limited detail: Stick and poke tattoos may not be able to achieve the same level of detail as machine-made tattoos.
  • Time-consuming: Stick and poke tattoos can take much longer to complete than traditional tattoos.

Stick and Poke Tattoo vs Machine-Made Tattoo

Stick and Poke Tattoos:

  • Done by hand
  • Cheaper
  • Takes longer to complete
  • More risk of infection
  • May not achieve as much detail

Machine-Made Tattoos:

  • Done with a machine
  • More expensive
  • Faster
  • Less risk of infection
  • Achieves more detail

Stick and Poke Tattoo Ideas

Stick and poke tattoos can be as simple or as complex as you like. Here are a few popular stick and poke tattoo ideas:

  • Heart
  • Cross
  • Moon phases
  • Constellations
  • Animals
  • Words or phrases

Tips

If you’re planning to give or receive a stick and poke tattoo, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Always use sterilized equipment and proper safety precautions.
  • Start with a small design before moving on to more complex ones.
  • Take breaks to avoid hand cramps and fatigue.
  • Aftercare is essential – follow instructions for cleaning and healing.

Best Stick and Poke Tattoo Kits

If you’re looking for the best stick and poke tattoo kits, here are a few options to consider:

  • Dragonhawk DIY Stick and Poke Tattoo Kit
  • Wormhole Tattoo Stick and Poke Tattoo Kit
  • One Tattoo World Stick and Poke Tattoo Kit

Stick and poke tattoos may not be for everyone, but they offer a unique and creative way to express yourself through body art. Just remember to take the necessary precautions and follow proper aftercare instructions for a safe and successful experience.

Conclusion

Stick and poke tattoos are a fascinating form of DIY tattooing that has been around for centuries. They offer an affordable, unique, and creative way to express oneself through body art.

Yet, keep in mind that stick and poke tattoos carry some risks, such as infection and limited detail. It’s crucial to take the necessary safety precautions when giving or receiving a stick and poke tattoo, including using sterilized equipment and following proper aftercare instructions.

If you’re interested in trying out stick and poke tattoos, do your research and start with a small design before moving on to more complex ones. And always remember: safety first.

FAQs

  1. How long do stick and poke tattoos last? Stick and poke tattoos can last anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on factors such as the ink used and the location of the tattoo.
  2. Can stick and poke tattoos be removed? Yes, stick and poke tattoos can be removed using laser removal techniques, but it may be more difficult than removing machine-made tattoos.
  3. Does getting a stick and poke tattoo hurt? Yes, getting a stick and poke tattoo can be painful, as it involves manually puncturing the skin with a needle.
  4. Are stick and poke tattoos permanent? Yes, stick and poke tattoos are permanent, just like traditional machine-made tattoos.
  5. Can stick and poke tattoos cause infections? Yes, if proper safety precautions are not taken, stick and poke tattoos can carry a risk of infection. It’s essential to use sterilized equipment and follow proper aftercare instructions.

Piercing Bump vs Keloid: Understanding the Differences and How to Treat Them

Piercings are becoming increasingly popular as a form of self-expression, fashion. However, the healing process of a piercing can sometimes be complicated. One of the most common problems that people encounter during the healing process is the formation of a bump or a keloid around the piercing. Having a piercing bump or a keloid is inevitable when it comes to piercing. To avoid them, let’s look into the causes and how to get rid of them

What are Piercing Bump and Keloid?

What is a Piercing Bump?

A piercing bump is a small, raised, and sometimes painful bump that forms around a piercing site. These bumps can be caused by a variety of factors, such as trauma to the piercing surrounding, bacterial infections, allergic reactions, etc. Piercing bumps can occur on any part of the body that has been pierced, like earlobes, nose, tongue, lip, or belly button.

What is a Keloid?

A keloid is a hard and rubbery, overgrowth permanent scar that’s caused by abnormal wound healing. Keloids are caused by excess of collagen at a piercing site or a wound. Keloids can develop on any part of the body that has been injured, such as the site of a piercing. People with darker skin are more likely to get keloids as well as people with a personal or family history of keloid formation. Some keloids can give their owner itching, burning, or even pain.

Difference between piercing bump vs keloid

Causes of Piercing Bump and Keloid

So why are you having keloids and piercing bumps, are you wondering what have you done wrong to your unhealed wound or piercing? Keloid vs piercing bump are common issues that many people encounter after getting a piercing. Here are some of the possible causes of each:

Piercing bumps:

Infection: If bacteria enter the piercing surrounding, it can cause an infection, which leads to a bump.

Allergic reaction: Some people are allergic to the metal that the jewelry contain or the piercing aftercare methods that are used to clean the piercing, which can cause a bump.

Trauma: If the piercing is knocked, bumped, or irritated frequently, it can cause irritation bump piercing, and inflammation, leading to a bump.

Improper aftercare: If the piercing is not properly cleaned and cared for after it’s done, it can lead to a bump.

Keloids:

Genetics: Some people are more prone to developing keloids due to their genetics.

Injury or trauma: Any injury or trauma to the skin, including getting a piercing, can cause a keloid to form.

Irritation: If the piercing is constantly irritated or rubbed, it can lead to the formation of a keloid.

Improper aftercare: Similar to piercing bumps, if the piercing is not properly taken care of after getting it done, a keloid can be formed.

It’s crucial to note that not everyone will develop a bump or keloid after getting a piercing, and even with proper aftercare, there is still a risk. If there is a piercing bump or a keloid that appears on your skin, it’s best to ask a dermatologist or a piercer for proper piercing aftercare.

What to Do If You Detect a Bump or a Keloid on Your Body?

A bump on a piercing can be caused by various reasons, such as infection, irritation, or trauma. This is our recommended piercing bump treatment.

Clean the area: Piercing aftercare is extremely vital to everyone that has a piercing. Clean the area around the piercing with a saline solution, a Q-tip, or a cotton ball. A saline solution can be made at home by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt with one cup of warm water. Soak a clean cotton ball or Q-tip in the saline solution and apply it to the bump for around 5-10 minutes.

Avoid direct interaction with the piercing: Avoid touching the bump or the piercing with dirty hands, as this can introduce more bacteria and cause infection to the bumping piercing.

Use a warm compress: Apply a warm compress to the bump for 5-10 minutes several times a day to help reduce inflammation and increase blood flow to the area.

Do not remove the jewelry: Removing the jewelry from the piercing can cause the hole to close up and trap infection and bacteria inside, so leave the jewelry in place unless advised otherwise by a professional.

Seek professional help: If the bump doesn’t improve or gets worse, seek help from a professional piercer or a doctor. They can give you professional advice, healing methods, or medication, which may include antibiotics.

Cleaning the little blod after placing the piercing.

Remember that it can take time for a piercing bump to go away, so be patient and continue to care for the area until it has fully healed.

Keloids are a type of raised scar that forms when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process of a wound or an injury. They can be itchy, painful, and unsightly, and sometimes restrict movement if they are located over a joint. So how to make a piercing keloid go away?

Treatment for keloids can be challenging, and there is no single remedy that works for everyone. However, some solutions can help you with a keloid:

Corticosteroid injections: Injecting corticosteroids directly into the keloid can help to reduce inflammation and flatten the scar.

Cryotherapy: Freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen can cause the scar tissue to die and fall off.

Surgical removal: Removing the keloid surgically can be effective, but this is a pretty risky method since there is a risk of the scar growing back even larger than before.

Removing the keloid at beauty studio salon

Laser therapy: Using a laser to treat the keloid can help to reduce its size and improve its appearance.

Silicone sheets or gels: Applying silicone sheets or gels to the keloid can help to soften and flatten the scar over time.

But you don’t have to be worried about your keloids since most of the cases, they are harmless.

Remember that keloids can be difficult to get rid of and may require multiple approaches. It is also important to work with a healthcare professional who is experienced in treating keloids to ensure the best possible outcome.