Blackout tattoo

Modern blackout tattoos are influenced by traditional Polynesian tattoos and graphic art.^[1] Their designs also often incorporate aspects of neo-tribal tattoos.^[2][3] The technique originated as an alternative method of covering up unwanted tattoos, instead of the more expensive tattoo removal.^[4][5] However, blackout tattoos became increasingly popular as an aesthetic choice in South Asia during the 2010s,^[6] a practice which largely derived from local tattooing techniques such as Bornean traditional tattooing.^[7][8] They soon spread internationally as a fashion trend,^[9][10][11] having been popularized by Singaporean tattoo artist Chester Lee whose designs got attention on Instagram after a picture of a woman with black chest and sleeve went viral in early 2016.^[12][13][1]

The main and defining characteristics of blackout tattooing is tattooing a portion of skin completely solid black.^[14] These tattoos often have abstract geometric designs.^[15][16]

Blacking out a portion of skin can take several hours, as the artist needs to ensure that the tattoo ink is evenly deposited,^[17] while also minimising scarring. Blackout tattoos are sometimes completed in multiple sessions because the process may be painful and time-consuming, and to ensure that ink has fully saturated the skin.^[15][16] As the ink fades, blackout tattoos may need to be retouched, although some people choose to let them fade with age.^[4] If the technique is not applied properly, the ink may heal unevenly, with some areas lighter or darker than others.^[18]

The edges of the blackout tattoo may end in shading, or with designs that make use of the negative space between the tattoo and the bare skin tone.^[19] Blackout tattoos may also be used as a background for color or black-on-black patterns and designs.^[20] In some cases, designs in white ink are placed on top of blackout tattoos after they have healed to create visual contrast.^[21] Scarification is sometimes used on top of blackout tattoos. This provides a similar effect to white ink tattoos without the risk of fading.^[22]

Blackout tattoos have associated health risks, including health risks associated with tattooing in general. Because they cover a large area of skin, blackout tattoos tend to cause increased swelling, as well as risk of keloid scarring and infection.^[23][24]

The dark pigments typically used to create blackout tattoos often contain carcinogens such as benzo(a)pyrene,^[16][25] and toxic ingredients such as titanium dioxide, chromium, nickel and lead, which can cause allergic reactions when used over a large area. Large blackout tattoos may also make it difficult for dermatologists to perform cancer screenings, as it obscures possible signs of cancer such as abnormal moles and melanoma.^[26] The iron oxide used in black ink can also interfere with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams.^[25][27]