Hand-Poke Tattoos
Hand-poke tattoos are an organic form of tattooing that manually inserts ink into the skin with a single needle by hand rather than using a tattoo machine. Modern hand-poke tattoos return to the original method of tattooing from more than 5,000 years ago, attributed to the Japanese style of Tebori, which means “carved by hand.”
Do hand-poke tattoos last?
Yes - if a professional tattoo artist does your hand-poke tattoo, it will last 10 years and longer. This can extend even longer if you take care of it and get it retouched, especially after the first year. As with all tattoo styles, hand-poke tattoos can fade over time, but you can extend the vibrance, definition, and color of your hand-poke tattoo with awareness:
choose a skilled tattoo artist specializing in the hand-poke technique
following your tattoo session, allow your skin to heal fully
regularly nurture your skin with recommended aftercare products
avoid smoke and sun exposure
get your tattoo touched up after the first year
Note: do not expect tattoo longevity or artistic continuity from a non-professional D.I.Y. hand-poke tattooer.
Do Hand-Poke Tattoos Hurt Less?
Yes - the consensus amongst tattooees is that hand-poke tattoos hurt less than tattoos with tattoo machines. Though everyone experiences pain differently, hand-poke tattoos feel more like a series of brief stings that recede quickly. In contrast, tattoos with machines are described as a burning or cutting sensation. Learn more about the pain levels according to the area of the body you are getting your tattoo on and about your pain psychology threshold to prepare yourself for any tattoo experience.