White Ink Tattoos On Dark Skin: 20+ Best Design Ideas

In the past few years, white ink tattoos have gained a whole new level of popularity. Some people get inked as a memory while some have them to show off their personality and get that elegant and stylish look.

White tattoos are different from dark tattoos in almost every possible way. Also, today, tattoos are not just for fashion or style. They are a lifestyle and a superb way to personalize your body the way you want.

There are hundreds of different types of tattoos trending every month, and white ink tattoos are among the list of most popular ones. Though, there is a lot more you need to know about white ink tattoos on dark skin.

In this article, our tattoo experts have explained everything you need to know about white ink tattoos on dark skin, so let’s dive into it.

What Are White Ink Tattoos?

First of all, what exactly are white ink tattoos? While the vast majority of tattoos are essentially made up of dark ink and color shades, white ink ones contain only a single white ink tone.

This type of tattoo is by far seen as being significantly more subtle and elegant compared to the other types of tattoos such as black ones.

Do White Ink Tattoos Look Better On Dark Skin?

On the majority of skin types and tones, white ink will start to fade away with years passing by. However, when white ink tattoos are inked on dark skin, they will, in general, still be seen for their contrast. Needless to say, this is the reason why many people with dark skin choose to go for white ink tattoos rather than traditional ones.

Do white ink tattoos look better on dark skin? Not necessarily, since they look gorgeous and unique on all skins, though they have more contrast on dark skin and, therefore, are more pleasant to see.

Because of the pigment change in white ink, it can be difficult to come up with something that will stand out from the crowd, and that is the reason why we recommend getting one if you have dark skin.

Do White Tattoos Show Up On Black Skin?

No matter what, if your skin tone is light, white ink tattoos will probably not be that noticeable to many. They’re a decent pick for anybody looking for a subtle and more elegant tattoo.

The darker the skin tone, the easier the white ink tattoo will be noticeable on the skin. On the other hand, getting a white ink tattoo on pale skin won’t be the best idea and will eventually fade away completely.

Is Tattooing Black Skin Different?

What you have to consider about white ink tattoos is that they are a lot harder to ink. For this reason, you’ll want an experienced tattooist who has experience with white ink.

Of course, tattooing every type of skin is different and that’s another reason to choose an experienced tattoo artist.

In case you’re willing to get a white tattoo, you should take some real time to think before making the jump. White inked tattoos require a lot of effort, care, and concentration altogether for the entire process to go as easily as could reasonably be expected, and you should likewise know that your skin color can enormously affect how the tattoo will look. Some white ink tattoos can even look like they contain no ink at all if not done accurately.

Also Read: 5 Best White Tattoo Ink – Comprehensive Guide + Best Brands

How To Maintain And Take Care Of Your White Ink Tattoos?

Taking care of your tattoo will help you protect its design. White ink tattoos should be taken care of just like any other shaded or dark ink tattoos. In fact, it isn’t only important to protect the tattoo but it’s also essential as an infected tattoo can lead to severe complicated conditions.

Right from the start, make sure your tattoo artist applies some petroleum jelly as well as a bandage to keep it well covered. After that, remove the bandage the following day and wash it gently with antimicrobial soap and clean water.

From the second day, and for the following 2 to 4 weeks, wash your tattoo with soap and clean water. After you’ve cleaned it, apply an antibacterial cream or Vaseline on the tattoo twice a day without adding another bandage.

This way, you’ll be able to keep the moisture on your tattoo and, therefore, keep it fresh and stylish. How long does a tattoo take to heal? Generally, it takes around 2 to 3 weeks for a tattoo to heal. In addition to that, there are some other tips as well that will enhance the durability of your tattoo.

Regularly Keep Your Skin Moisturized

You should keep your new tattoo as hydrated as possible using an aftercare cream for tattoos such as Green Goo Tattoo Care.

There are several creams available on the market. Though, make sure that the one you use is tattoo-friendly and contains no artificial ingredients as they could make the tattoo fade away more quickly.

Moisturizing your tattoo twice a day after getting inked will allow you to keep it hydrated and to always see the beautiful white ink design of yours.

Avoid Exposure To Sunlight

Whether you have a white ink tattoo or a black one, sunlight is an enemy for your design. While the tattoo is healing, the skin will become more sensitive, and the ultraviolet beams from the sun will cause harm to your skin in case you don’t cover it properly.

UV rays will fade your tattoo if overexposed to the sunlight. So, if you’re planning a vacation to the beach, make sure to invest in a tattoo-friendly suncare cream that will allow you to protect both your skin and your ink.

Note: We recommend getting the 30+ Sunscreen from Tattoo Care which will prevent your tattoo from fading as well as moisturizing it at the same time.

Avoid Long Baths

Long baths at home or at the swimming pool the first 2 to 3 weeks after getting inked are not recommended. In fact, getting a bath will soak your tattoo and, therefore, will cause it to fade.

During the healing process, the ink forms a protective layer and too much water could potentially blur the design. Needless to say, that’s the last thing you want when getting inked.

While you should be fine getting a bath after a couple of days, we recommend waiting a full week to make sure that the design remains just as when you left the tattoo studio.

To sum up, no matter what, if anytime during the healing cycle, you notice redness, growing, or discharge, visit a specialist immediately.

Also Read:

Can You Swim After Getting A Tattoo? Is It Safe?

8 Best Tattoo Aftercare Products Based On Experience (2021)

Best White Ink Tattoo Ideas For Dark Skin

While numerous tattoo designs can be made using white ink, it is important to know the best and most popular ones. In fact, it isn’t always easy to find the best designs and ideas. Make sure to read below to go through the most unique and creative white ink tattoos for dark skin that you should know about.

White Back Tattoos

White back tattoos are unmatchable in their delicate stylish look. They amplify the style of any outfit and make you look elegant on any occasion.

Geometric Design

Are you a big fan of aesthetic shapes and styles? Geometric tattoo designs add an elegant touch to your body and enhance your style. With white ink, they are also simple yet natural and stylish.

Elephant White Tattoo

Elephants are a glimpse of the beauty of nature and a symbol of peace, protection, wisdom, and good luck. White elephant tattoos look sophisticated while keeping their original meaning. Also, it is simple and much different from overdone tattoos.

White Birds Tattoo

Are you looking for a beautiful and unique white ink tattoo design for dark skin? A white bird tattoo might be the perfect choice for you.

In fact, it reflects and enhances your body with a unique design. In addition, it also showcases one’s love for birds and nature. Generally, birds resemble happiness and good times, so this tattoo will always be there to encourage you during tough times that the good days are coming.

White Ink Dreamcatcher

Getting a white ink dreamcatcher design is one of the best tattoos for dark skin. Dreamcatchers are meant to protect us from nightmares and overall bad dreams. They originally come from the native American culture and were used, back in the days, to protect children from bad dreams and evil spirits.

Apart from the interesting meaning, dreamcatchers are simply beautiful to see and will certainly look stunning on your arm, your back, or even your leg.

Ankle White Tattoo

Getting inked on the ankle is not uncommon. However, getting a white ink tattoo on dark skin is an amazing idea to get personalized and unique.

Whether you get a geometric design, a dreamcatcher, a portrait, or an animal, you’ll surely make an impression wherever you’ll go. Also, it is easy to hide and that’s a great advantage if you’re looking for a job or simply don’t like to show off.

White Ink Tattoos Fade Faster On Dark Skin

White tattoos have made that big appearance and positively looked at by a significant number of tattoo lovers. Most of the tattoos people usually get are dark or colorful, and they have never been keen on getting any other tone.

Staying with dark ink brings down the probability of future final details and above all, doesn’t look as nice as white ink tattoos on dark skin. Though, as mentioned previously, white ink tattoos might not end being completely white and will surely fade faster on dark skin.

Unfortunately, white ink tattoos fade on everybody and more quickly than black ink ones, especially when they are performed on darker skin tones.

To sum up, white ink tattoos will, in general, fade away shortly after the healing process, which is the reason many tattoo artists are reluctant to ink white ink tattoos on dark skin.

Are White Ink Tattoos More Painful Than Black Ones?

White ink tattoos may be more painful than black or colorful ones depending on where you get inked and your pain threshold. In fact, while black ink is very noticeable and is a strong color, white ones may not be as visible. For this reason, the tattoo artist will need to get the ink deeper into the skin and eventually repeat the needling process to make the design stand out.

Other than that, you should know that some body parts are more subject to pain than others. The most painful parts are:

• Ankles
• Breasts
• Elbows
• Face
• Hips
• Neck
• Knees
• Lips
• Face

On the other hand, the least painful parts of our body to get tattooed are the ones with fewer nerves such as:

• Arms
• Calves
• Ear Cartilage
• Lower Back
• Outer shoulder
• Thighs
• Inner Wrist

All in all, the least painful part of our body to get inked is the inner wrist since a few bones are located there and the skin is thin.

White Henna As A White Ink Tattoo Alternative

Despite several inconveniences of white ink tattoos, they still look awesome and unique which is what most people want. Though, if you’re afraid of it fading away and not looking as nice as before the healing process, white henna is a fantastic alternative.

White henna is temporary and not permanent, compared to traditional tattoos. Also, while traditional white ink tattoos might cause disease and infections, white henna tattoos are completely safe. Henna only sits on your skin and isn’t actually injected which is a particularly good advantage compared to both white ink and black ink tattoos.

White henna is essentially made of medical glue and body paint. The henna artist will apply it on your skin with a cone and will stay for three to ten days. Furthermore, it is important to note that White Henna does not actually contain henna ingredients, though it is still completely safe to use.

To sum up, White henna is a great alternative to white ink tattoos and you can get endless tattoos that will eventually completely fade away unlike traditional ones.

Conclusion

These were the best white ink tattoos on dark skin that you should consider. From geometric designs to elephant ones and dreamcatchers, there’s plenty of choices. Of course, it is totally possible to think about a personalized tattoo drawing and get it inked in white.

Typically, white ink tattoos fade more quickly than black ink ones but they are generally more elegant, subtle, and easy to hide which is great for all professionals.

To conclude, always make sure to visit a professional tattoo artist that will make sure to ink a beautiful design the right way, extend its lifespan, and keep it risk-free.

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