WHAT IS HANDPOKING?
Handpoke tattoos are tattoos made without the use of a tattoo machine. Instead of using a machine I use a sterile needle (the same used in machines) attached to a disposable stick which pushes the ink into the skin manually dot by dot. Multiple dots make up the lines and shading of the tattoo.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HANDPOKING AND MACHINE TATTOOS?
Although depending on the design it can take a little longer to do, I’d say the main difference is that it causes less trauma to the skin. It causes less discomfort so the tattoo healing process is much quicker than that of a machine tattoo. I’ve had clients tell me they feel it is a more personal meditative experience.
DO HANDPOKE TATTOOS HURT MORE?
The vast majority of my clients report that it hurts less. As with any method of tattooing though it can depend on the placement as some areas are more sensitive than others. Also some peoples pain tolerances can differ.
ARE HANDPOKE TATTOOS TEMPORARY?
Just like machine tattoos, handpoke tattoos are permanent. The ink is deposited in the second layer of the skin in the same way. They can also fade in the same way if not taken care of.
HOW LONG DO HANDPOKE TATTOOS TAKE TO HEAL?
Most handpoked tattoos take round 2 weeks to fully heal. Although it does vary from person to person & I have had some clients tell me it has taken less time than this and that the healing process is much calmer than that of a machine tattoo. It doesn’t scab it just tends to get a bit dry and requires minimum aftercare. There is also very minimal risk of infection due to minimal trauma.