Had to adjust a fade for a client with neck ink

I was giving a skin fade to this regular yesterday. He has a detailed tattoo that goes up his neck into the hairline. The design made it tricky to line up the fade clean. I used a number one guard near the edges to avoid cutting the ink. Then I blended with shears for a smooth look. It added extra time but the result was worth it. Got me curious how other barbers deal with tattoos in the way. What's your go-to method for cuts around ink?

3 comments

3 Comments

samhernandez7d ago

Ever have a client whose tattoo actually got bigger between appointments? I swear this guy's sleeve creeped up past his elbow like it was growing, messed up my usual clipper guard path for his taper. Had to freehand blend with the trimmer above the new ink line, felt like drawing without lifting the pencil. Makes you realize how living skin art turns a standard cut into custom work every single time.

thompson.holly1d ago

Wait, do tattoos really grow? Honestly I think clients just add more ink over time.

keithallen7d ago

Ever notice how stuff like tattoos or scars make you actually look at what you're doing instead of just going through the motions? It's like the world's way of reminding you nothing stays the same... even a basic fade has to change because the canvas changed. You see that same thing everywhere, where a small detail forces you out of your routine and makes you work a little harder for the finish.