Getting that little butterfly inked into your back or your boyfriend’s name permanently marked on to your wrist may seem like an amazing idea at the time. I clearly remember declaring (after a few drinks) that I was “never going to regret this” while a beefy tattooist marked the nape of my neck with some sort of image. I swear it was meant to be a sun. Sure, at the time it was a good idea, and I don’t necessary regret it. But admittedly there are certain occasions that my little sun just doesn’t look too flash. Prime examples include job interviews, weddings and visiting relatives.
I’m sure I’m not the only one out there who wishes they could just cover up their tattoo from time to time. According to one survey, 70% of Aussies aged 16-30 have a tattoo or have considered getting a tattoo within the next five years. That’s a lot of tattoos, and a lot of room for potential regrets.
Angelina Jolie opted for lasering off her Billy Bob Tattoo, while Johnny Depp changed his ‘Winona Forever’ tatt to ‘Wino Forever’. I, however, do not see my sun as a case for the laser and simply want to disguise it from time to time. So I tried out some simple and quick tricks, which produced great results. I will definitely be replicating them for the upcoming Christmas lunch with Nan.
Covering it up
Using a soft blending sponge, such as Manicare Precision Blending Sponge, apply thick white costume paint to cover the entire tattoo. Once the paint has dried, apply another layer. Repeat until all the ink is covered and the area is completely white.
Blending it in
To cover up the white patch, apply a matte foundation using a clean sponge or foundation brush. The trick here is to ensure a perfect colour match, and this may mean blending two shades together to get the same colour as your skin tone. The foundation used must not be dewy or glossy, as it will not match the texture of your body’s skin and can end-up drawing more attention to your cover-up job. I find that MAC’s Face and Body Foundation and Maybelline’s Dream Matte Mousse Foundation both provide a great natural coverage with a matte finish. Build up coverage until the white base is no longer visible.
Finishing it off
Finish off the job with a finishing powder. Ensure that the powder has a natural finish with no shimmery undertones, as this will only draw attention to the area. Australis’s Ready Set Go Finishing Powder will increase the wear of the foundation, while also ensuring that the finished look is even, matte and soft. Apply the powder all over with a powder brush.
Do you have a tattoo you regret? Have you ever tried covering it up?
