Propelled by technological advancements, the age-old practice of tattooing has undergone a transformative journey. With more and more people getting tattoos worldwide, the integration of cutting-edge innovations has ushered in a new era for both artists and tattoo enthusiasts alike.
This article dives into the advancements in tattoo technology, tattoo design technology and laser tattoo removal technology. From groundbreaking tattoo machines to AI applications to see how a potential tattoo would look on your skin, join us as we explore the intricacies of how the latest tattoo advancements are enhancing the entire process.
The Latest Tattoo Advancements
Upgraded Tattoo Machines
Gone are the days when tattoo artists used a bamboo stick to tattoo you. These days, artists use cutting-edge tattoo machines that feature state-of-the-art needles and are cordless.
These new tattoo machines are equipped with precision motors. The motors allow the artist to create intricate designs with effortless precision. Not only do they allow the artist to tattoo with effortless precision, but the cordless feature allows more freedom and flexibility[ so you can sit more comfortably throughout the duration of your tattoo.
Robot Tattoo Artists
You’ve heard of self-drive (or robot) cars, but did you ever think that you’d be able to get tattooed by a robot? How times have changed! Guided by the skilled hands of human tattoo artists, robot tattoo artists have been making waves in the industry as one of the latest advancements. With their robotic precision and steady hand, robot tattoo artists bring consistency and accuracy previously unknown to the human hand.
Disappearing Ink
Another advancement in tattoo technology is the invention of disappearing ink. If you’re looking to get a tattoo but don’t want it permanently on your skin, the solution is disappearing ink.
Various tattoo ink brands have introduced inks designed to last only a certain amount of time. One of those brands is Ephemeral Tattoo, which uses bio-absorbable ingredients that shrink and fade over a couple of years. However, the estimated duration of the tattoo depends on skin tone, aftercare, tattoo placement and size.
Tattoo Design Technology
3D Printing
3D printing is a revolutionary component in the tattoo industry, allowing artists to create custom tattoo designs and print them onto prosthetic limbs with greater speed and accuracy. 3D printers are also a new and fast way to create intricate tattoo machines and accessories needed for tattooing.
AI Apps
Artificial intelligence has grown in popularity over the past few years, and it’s even made its way into the tattoo industry. One of the ways it has done so is through apps that allow users to visualise potential tattoos on their skin before permanently committing.
The AI-powered apps leverage augmented reality (AR) and sophisticated image recognition technologies to give users a realistic preview of how a tattoo design might look on their skin. One of those apps is Inkhunter. Through the app, users can take photos of their chosen body parts, and the app overlays a tattoo design.
Design Apps
There are many tattoo design apps available in the world. However, one of tattoo artists' most popular choices is the iPad's Procreate App. Procreate is a fantastic app as it allows tattoo artists to create new designs without carrying around a big bag of tools. The app is also fantastic for cover-up tattoos. Artists can take a photo of their client’s tattoo, which they will cover up and create a new design over it on Procreate.
All of these advancements improve the tattoo experience by making it easier for the artist and client to create and execute a fantastic tattoo, regardless of size or shape.
Laser Tattoo Removal Advancements
Before the invention of laser tattoo removal in the late 1960s, how did tattoos used to be removed? There were a variety of ways people used to have their tattoos removed, all of which were incredibly painful, such as:
- Dermabrasion: While in modern times, dermabrasion involves using a specialised treatment to ‘sand’ the skin, a few decades ago, it was extremely painful. To remove tattoos from the skin, a rough object (such as a wire brush) was used to ‘sand’ the skin, often exposing the individual to infections.
- Salabrasion: Another way to remove tattoos was by placing table salt on the tattoo and rubbing it with a gauze pad, which was painful and left the individual with scars.
- Chemicals: As time passed, people turned to more modern but still ineffective tattoo removal methods. Some people used chemicals like tannic acid and silver nitrate, which caused burns and left the skin disfigured.
- Surgery: Other people got their tattoos removed surgically, and if the tattoo was big enough, it was removed, and the area was covered with a skin graft.
It wasn’t until the 1980s and 1990s that laser tattoo removal became popular. Still, the carbon dioxide and nanosecond lasers (Q-switch lasers) weren’t the best option as they left the treated individual with scarring, hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation.
In 2012, picosecond lasers were approved and became the most effective laser tattoo removal method. Compared to Q-switch lasers, picosecond lasers offer less risk and pain, faster results, and fewer treatment sessions. Unlike earlier laser technologies that only removed a limited selection of colours restricted to lighter skin tones, picosecond lasers can remove a wider range of colours across all skin tones.
Get Your Latest Tattoo At Celebrity Ink
The latest advancements in tattoo technology have undoubtedly transformed the tattooing experience, making it more precise, efficient and comfortable for both artists and clients.
With features like more efficient tattoo machines and easy-to-use design applications, getting a tattoo has never been more enticing. These technological enhancements not only cater to seasoned tattoo enthusiasts but also open up the world of body art to those who may have been hesitant in the past.
If you’re ready to enter the world of tattooing or want to add to your collection, get your next ink at Celebrity Ink. Our skilled artists, coupled with state-of-the-art technology, ensure a tattooing experience that is visually stunning, comfortable and memorable.
Book an appointment at your nearest Celebrity Ink studio and let the latest tattoo technology bring your vision to life on your skin.
