Three Ways to Get a Tattoo Blowout Fixed
Tattoos are long lasting works of art, but sometimes things don't go as planned. One common issue is a tattoo blowout - a condition where the ink spreads under the skin, making the tattoo look blurry and shady. It is generally caused by tattooing too deeply or on thin-skinned areas, the good news is that it can be fixed.
In this guide, we’ll break down three best ways to get a tattoo blowout fixed, whether it’s a small smudge area or a larger issue affecting your ink’s detail.
What is a Tattoo Blowout?
Before we understand the solutions, let’s dive into what a tattoo blowout actually means.
A tattoo blowout occurs when the ink is pushed too deep into the skin and starts to spread into the nearby area. This results in a blurred appearance - especially around lines and shading. While it can never happen by a professional artist, it’s more common when the tattoo is done by an inexperienced artist or in a tricky area like the wrist, ankle, or ribs.
1- Tattoo Blowout coverup
One of the most popular tattoo blowout fix methods is a cover-up tattoo. An experienced artist can design a new piece that cleverly masks the blownout area with darker ink, added detail, or creative composition.
When to Choose a Cover-Up:
The blowout is too large to ignore.
You’re open to a bigger or darker tattoo.
You want to completely change the design.
Pros:
Gives you a fresh start.
Can turn a flaw into a standout piece.
Many realism and traditional artists are skilled in this.
Cons:
Requires a skilled tattoo artist.
May limit your design options due to existing blowout.
Pro Tip: Choose an experienced artist who specializes in cover-up tattoos. They’ll understand how to tackle shadows, color, and linework to hide imperfections.
2. Tattoo Blowout Correction with Shading or Detail Work
If your tattoo blowout is minor, a full cover-up might not be necessary. Instead, adding extra detail and shading can distract the eye from the blurry area and add the blowout into the overall design.
When to Use This Method:
The blowout is in a small or isolated spot.
The original tattoo still has good structure.
You want to preserve the original design.
Pros:
Retains the original tattoo’s integrity.
Costs less than a full cover-up.
Minimal additional ink.
Cons:
Doesn’t erase the blowout—only masks it.
Not suitable for large or dark blowouts.
Pro Tip: Ask your artist if they can use negative space or shadowing techniques to soften the transition where the ink has spread.
3. Tattoo Blowout Laser Removal
For those looking for a more permanent fix, laser tattoo removal can target that area directly. It uses high-intensity light to break up the pigment particles so your body can naturally flush that ink away.
When to Consider Laser Removal:
You don’t want a cover-up.
The blowout ink is far from the main design.
You want to fix the skin before re-inking.
Pros:
Can completely eliminate the blown-out ink.
Offers a clean slate for future touch-ups or tattoos.
Safe when performed by professionals.
Cons:
Requires multiple sessions.
Can be costly.
May cause temporary discomfort.
Pro Tip: Look for a laser specialist with experience in tattoo removal—not just cosmetic lasers. They’ll be better equipped to handle tattoo pigment and minimize scarring.
Bonus Tips: How to Prevent Future Blowouts
While you now know how to fix a tattoo blowout, prevention is always better. Here are a few tips to avoid this issue altogether:
Choose a certified and experienced tattoo artist.
Avoid thin-skinned areas unless the artist is highly skilled.
Follow aftercare instructions carefully to prevent unnecessary swelling or spreading.
Conclusion
Dealing with a tattoo blowout can be disappointing - but it’s not the end of your ink journey. Whether you choose a cover-up, correction, or laser tattoo blowout fix, you have options to restore your skin art with confidence.
The key? Work with professionals who understand how to blend technique with creativity.
Looking for expert advice or a skilled cover-up tattoo artist in Colorado?Contact Certified Tattoo Studios to book a consultation today.
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The best tattoo blowout fix depends on the severity and location. For minor cases, shading or detail work may be enough. For larger blowouts, a cover-up tattoo or laser removal may provide better results. A professional tattoo artist can help you decide the most effective solution.
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Yes, tattoo blowouts can be reduced or removed with laser tattoo removal. The treatment breaks down the excess ink, allowing your body to flush it out. Multiple sessions may be required, especially if the ink is deeply embedded.
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Signs of a tattoo blowout include blurry lines, smudged edges, or ink spreading under the skin, especially in areas around the tattoo. Blowouts typically appear within a few days after getting inked and are more common in areas with thin or delicate skin.
