Add a blazer or cardigan to short sleeves for a professional look. [2] X Research source Make sure the clothes over your tattoo are always clean. Dirty garments that rub the fresh tattoo can make the healing process take longer. If you have to wear tight fitting clothes, wrap the tattoo in breathable cotton or gauze first (no plastic or cling wrap). Make sure to wash your hands and the tat before wrapping!
If you have a small tattoo on your upper back or the back of your neck, try a ponytail to change up the style. Since your hair is loose and breathable, it won’t irritate a fresh tattoo. Just make sure to keep your hair clean (for your tat’s health and a professional look). Wearing your hair down will protect tattoos from excess sunlight. This means the tattoo will look fresher and sharper for longer.
Wait to use thicker or heavier scarves until the tattoo is fully healed.
Tight clothing over a healing tattoo isn’t ideal. If you have to wear socks or tights, choose something made with a breathable fabric like cotton.
Fresh tattoos need to breathe, so wear your watches or bands loosely to let some air circulate around the ink.
This method looks conspicuous compared to other subtle covering options like clothing or long hair.
Boots are fine for healed or mostly healed tattoos. Brand new tattoos might get damaged from the boot rubbing against your skin. Try to time your new ink so it can heal before boot season and use breathable bandages, socks, or tights to cover it up in the meantime.
Cover-up sleeves are stretchy and usually made of spandex or nylon to keep them from slipping off while you move. Keep in mind that cover up sleeves probably look less professional than a long-sleeved shirt or blazer. While your tattoo (or parts of it) is fresh, it’s better to use a loose, long sleeved shirt to cover it. Cover-up sleeves are tight and restrict airflow to the healing tattoo.
Apply hair spray when you’re finished to make the makeup last longer. The downside to makeup is that it’s time consuming, costly, and not waterproof. Some makeup products marketed for covering tattoos look great on camera or TV, but are more noticeable up close or in person. Do not use makeup on tattoos that are still healing to avoid the risk of irritation or infection.