How Long Do Stick and Poke Tattoos Last?

Stick and poke tattoos have gained some attention over the past few years as people travel abroad. Used since ancient times, stick and poke tattoos have a unique look that is hard to achieve with a standard tattoo gun. However, if you are thinking about getting a stick and poke tattoo, you need to weigh the pros and cons, as in the longevity of the design. How long do stick and poke tattoos last? Let’s find out.

Key Takeaways

Stick and poke tattoos are created manually with a single needle and ink, favored for their simplicity, affordability, and personal touch.
This method has ancient origins, used by cultures like the Egyptians, Polynesians, and Native Americans, and has seen a modern revival among DIY communities.
Stick and poke tattoos generally last between 5 and 10 years but can fade faster than machine-done tattoos depending on quality, placement, and aftercare.
Ensuring cleanliness, keeping the tattoo moisturized, protecting it from the sun, avoiding prolonged water exposure, and refraining from picking or scratching are crucial for maintaining the tattoo’s appearance.

What is a Stick and Poke Tattoo?

A stick and poke tattoo is a type of body art created manually using a single needle and ink, without the use of a tattoo machine. The artist repeatedly pokes the skin with the needle to deposit ink, creating the desired design. This method is often favored for its simplicity, affordability, and the intimate experience it offers, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more personal or DIY tattoo.

History of Stick and Poke Tattoos

Stick and poke tattoos have a long and rich history, tracing back to ancient civilizations. This technique was used by various cultures around the world long before the invention of the modern tattoo machine. Here are some key points in its historical journey:

Ancient Cultures: Many ancient cultures, including the Egyptians, Polynesians, and Native Americans, practiced hand-poked tattooing. These tattoos often had significant cultural, spiritual, or social meanings.
Traditional Practices: In Japan, the art of Tebori (hand-poked tattooing) has been practiced for centuries and is still revered today. Similarly, in Samoa, traditional tattoos, known as tatau, are still performed using hand tools.
Revival in Modern Times: The stick and poke method saw a resurgence in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, particularly among DIY communities and subcultures. This revival is often attributed to the method’s accessibility and the personal connection it fosters between the artist and the recipient.

How Long Do Stick and Poke Tattoos Last on Average?

Like most tattoos, stick and poke tattoos have a tendency to fade over time. That said, stick and poke tattoos do not last as long as those created with a tattoo gun. You can expect a stick and poke tattoo to last between 5 and 10 years, depending on how well it is maintained and if you get any touch-ups. Unfortunately, after 5-10 years, the tattoo will begin to lose pigment and look washed out.

Here are some factors that determine how fast a hand-poked tattoo lasts:

Quality of the Tattoo: A professionally done stick and poke tattoo using high-quality ink and proper technique can last longer than one done with inferior materials or poor technique.
Placement on the Body: Tattoos in areas with less friction and exposure to the sun, like the upper arm or thigh, tend to last longer compared to those on the hands, feet, or other high-friction areas.
Aftercare: Proper aftercare is crucial for the longevity of any tattoo. Inadequate aftercare can lead to faster fading and even infections.

Tips for Making Stick and Poke Tattoos Last Longer

Naturally, if you go through the process of getting a hand-poked tattoo—which is said to be more painful than the traditional route—you want it to last as long as possible. Although the skill of the artist, placement, and ink quality do play a role in how long a stick and poke tattoo lasts, there is another important thing: aftercare.

If you want to maintain the appearance of a stick and poke for as long as possible, utilize the following tips:

Cleanliness

Immediately after getting your tattoo, your artist will clean and bandage it. Once you remove the bandage, gently clean the tattooed area with mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing; instead, use your hands to gently wash away any excess ink or blood. Pat the area dry with a clean towel.

Keep Your Tattoo Moisturized

Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer or a specialized tattoo aftercare ointment. This helps keep the skin hydrated and aids in the healing process. Reapply the moisturizer as needed, especially if the area feels dry or tight.

Protect Your Ink from the Sun

Protect your tattoo from direct sunlight, especially during the healing process. UV rays can cause the ink to fade faster. Once healed, always apply a high SPF sunscreen on the tattooed area when exposed to the sun.

Avoid Soaking at First

Refrain from soaking your tattoo in water for extended periods. Avoid baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, and the ocean until your tattoo is fully healed. Brief showers are fine, but prolonged exposure to water can hinder the healing process.

Do Not Pick or Scratch

As your tattoo heals, it may scab or itch. Avoid picking at scabs or scratching the area, as this can lead to ink loss and increase the risk of infection. If itching is severe, gently pat the area or apply a bit more moisturizer.

Contact a Philadelphia Area Tattoo Shop Today

If you are considering stick and poke tattoos, keep in mind that you need to take care of them to keep them longer. Otherwise, these tattoos will fade faster than other types. At Oracle Tattoo Gallery, we prioritize the quality and longevity of your tattoos. Contact us today to schedule a consultation by calling 215-638-1601, or fill out our online form to discuss your ideas with our talented team. We’re here to make your dream tattoo a reality, with the expertise and care your body art deserves.