Freckle tattoos; fashion fad or future fixture of tattooing?

Freckle tattoos; fashion fad or future fixture of tattooing?

Freckle tattoos are the new kid on the block thanks to the popularity of Princess Meghan. What was once regarded by many as a burden is now the must have fashion statement. Yayo sent Matt Haddon-Reichardt to meet up with freckle tattooist Asley Leffler to find out what all the fuss is about.

“I have been a cosmetic tattoo artist for over 2 years. I own my shop Lady Wolf Studio in Seattle, WA,” Ashley explains.

I ask her what appeals to her about tattooing freckles.

“I love the idea of body modification in all forms and believe that whatever someone wants to add to their body, change, augment, etc. is empowering and it's their own choice. So is it a good idea? Yes, if a person likes the look of freckles and wants them on their face, yes.”

 "I feel like the cosmetic tattoo industry and traditional tattoo industry are very different."

 

 

In my mind there is a stereotype of who would get freckle tattoos; the superficial, ultra trendy fashionista. Ashley is quick to correct me on this assumption.

“Any and all folks get them. I have clients who have freckles already and want to add more, and I have clients who don't have a single freckle or mole and want a few freckles across their face. I have clients who have no freckles and want a face full. They type of person who asks for freckles to be tattooed on their face is a person who wants freckles. I don’t think stereotypes apply to be honest.”

"So is it a good idea? Yes, if a person likes the look of freckles and wants them on their face, yes.”

 

 

In terms of the process of applying freckle tattoos Ashley highlights the similarities and differences between cosmetic tattooing and its more traditional form.

“I use a machine and a specific cosmetic tattoo pigment line that will fade over time. I map out the freckles with a pencil and try to create a random placement focusing on where the sun would typically hit on the features of the face. They can last anywhere from a couple years to 6 or more depending on the individuals skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, facial treatments, etc.” 

“I've seen some that look absolutely realistic and some that do not. Do all tattoo artists make great, realistic tattoos? Nope. Same goes for this.”

 

 

The big question is do they look convincing.

“I've seen some that look absolutely realistic and some that do not. Do all tattoo artists make great, realistic tattoos? Nope. Same goes for this.”

“Oh and before you ask, yes it does hurt. All tattoos hurt but a good tattoo is worth the sacrifice,” she laughs.

So much has changed in tattooing over the past decade that I wonder if freckle tattoos are a passing fad or the next big thing. Ashley is certain they are here to stay regardless of what industry veterans think.

“I don't think it's silly at all but I also realize some folks are completely confused by the thought of adding something considered a blemish or skin imperfection to their faces. To each their own and honestly if you like them great! If you hate them I'm not here to convince anyone either way. I feel like the cosmetic tattoo industry and traditional tattoo industry are very different. I think some tattoo artists definitely have some strong opinions about cosmetic tattoo artists and what we do. I've met some that were super supportive and I've also met some that think what we do is bullshit. Once again it’s not my place to try to change anyone's mind. I'm not here to fight silly battles. I love what I do and I respect all artists.”

 

 

I think we can all agree that regardless which tattoo camp we fall into respecting each other is vital. Only time will tell if freckle tattoos are here to stay but in the mean time expect to see more of this trend as princess Megan’s popularity continues to rise.

 

Can you spot the real freckles from the fakes? Answers on a postcard (or in the comments section below) and first out of the bag wins a hamper of Yayo goodies. 

 

A final thought from the author: "I'm not sure if freckle tattoos are a passing fad or are here to stay but I know that to make them last the test of time they have got to heal well. It doesn't matter if your tattoo is of the freckled kind or a more traditional design aftercare is a priority. Always ensure you keep your tattoos clean and moisturized and always make sure Yayo is at the heart of your aftercare regime."

 

Yayo... its a family thing.

 

Words by Matt Haddon-Reichardt.

Images by Matt Haddon-Reichardt and Mark Jones