So you want to cover up your tattoo. I totally understand. I’ve had three laser removal sessions on my terrible tattoos. But unlike me, you might actually like your tattoo and just want it to go away temporarily.

The phrase “tattoo cover up” can mean two different things. The first is when you use makeup as a tattoo concealer. The second meaning is when you have an old tattoo incorporated into a new one that covers it up. This Hub will discuss both situations. I don’t suggest actually using a cheese grater.

Common reasons to temporarily cover up: weddings, family portraits, job interviews, company picnics, acting and modeling jobs.

Tattoo concealers will do a great job of covering your tattoo if applied correctly. While concealers may promise results by themselves, it’s common for darker tattoos to still show through. This video at About.com shows you how to use a red lipstick base and translucent powder over the top to cover just about anything: http://video.about.com/tattoo/How-to-Cover-Up-a-Tattoo.htm.

There are a number of commercially available tattoo concealers available. Some of the more popular options are:

• Kat Von D Tattoo Concealer ($25 at Sephora.com)
  
• Dermablend ($26 at Dermablend.com)
  
• Tattoo Camo ($34.95 at Tattoocamo.com)
  
• Smart Cover ($29.75 at Smartcover.com)

Common reasons to get a “cover up” tattoo: you got a stupid tattoo (like me), you can’t afford laser removal, you’re pretty sure that this time you have a great tattoo idea and it definitely won’t turn out like last time when you hated it and decided to get it covered up.

When looking for a tattoo artist to do your cover up, it’s extremely important that you find someone with a track record. Ask around for references and if you can’t find any make sure you see some of your tattoo artists past cover ups. Anybody that has done it before is sure to have something in their portfolio. The tattoo process for a cover up is pretty much the same as your original but they may have to go deeper with the ink to get it looking consistent. Here is a great discussion about the subject of cover up tattoos: http://forums.about.com/ab-tattoo/messages?lgnF=y&msg=6324.2

Special Bonus Option!: Arm Sleeve Tattoo Cover

Common reasons to get an arm sleeve cover: you’re a cop, you’re a fire fighter.

For whatever reason, paramilitary forces seem to frown on tattoos. Many supply stores for police officers and fire fighters sell products like the TatJacket. If you’re buying online, this is their website:

TatJacket ($19.95 at Tatjacket.com)

Interested in the nuclear option? Leave any questions or comments about tattoo cover ups in the section below and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Cheers Hubbers!