General
Who is Skingraphica?
Skingraphica is a proudly Australian-made skincare company dedicated to advanced care for tattooed skin. We exist to elevate the tattoo skincare experience with science-backed products designed for serious skin art.
What makes Skingraphica different from regular skincare?
Unlike regular skincare, SKINGRAPHICA is engineered with Ink-Safe™ biochemistry and proprietary complexes created for the unique needs of tattooed skin.
Each product is designed for a specific stage of the tattoo journey - before, during, and long after the tattoo. We avoid common irritants, respect pigment stability in the dermis, and use targeted actives that prioritise long-term skin health and vibrancy.
Why is Skingraphica more expensive than other tattoo skincare?
We invest in dermatological testing, premium ingredients, strict quality standards, and small-batch manufacturing to ensure every product meets clinical-grade expectations.
Are your products suitable for all skin tones?
Yes. Every product is developed and tested for performance on all skin types and tones, including melanated skin.
Are you recommended by artists?
Yes. Many of the world’s most respected tattoo artists recommend our products to their clients.
Do you support the tattoo industry beyond your products?
Yes. A portion of our profits is directed back into the tattoo community. We award annual Graphica Grants to elite artists featured in our global rankings lists to support studio innovation and artistic advancement.
We also offer complimentary skin science education through the SKINGRAPHICA Academy, designed to elevate artist knowledge and improve client outcomes.
How are your artist rankings determined?
Our artist rankings and endorsements are curated in collaboration with globally recognised artists and are subjective in nature, based on excellence in artistry and innovation.
What if I develop a rash around my tattoo?
It may be irritation or an allergic reaction. Stop any new products and seek
medical advice if it worsens.
Can people with eczema get tattoos?
Yes, but not over active flare-ups. Manage the condition well before getting tattooed.
Is itching normal during healing?
Yes. It's common in the later stages of healing. Avoid scratching and keep skin hydrated.
What ingredients should I avoid on healing tattoos?
Fragrance, alcohol, essential oils, and exfoliants can all cause irritation during healing.
Can allergies develop from tattoo ink?
Yes, particularly with certain colours like red or yellow. If in doubt, ask your artist and consult a doctor.
Can sensitive skin types get tattoos safely?
Yes, with extra care. Choose an experienced artist and follow conservative aftercare practices.
What do I do if my tattoo becomes very itchy or inflamed weeks later?
This could be a delayed reaction. Use soothing skincare and consult a dermatologist.
Are patch tests available for tattoo ink allergies?
Some dermatologists offer them. Discuss this in advance if you have known sensitivities.
Can tattoo ink cause long-term skin issues?
Rarely. Most reactions are short-term. However, poorly regulated ink or improper aftercare increases the risk.
How can I reduce my chances of a bad skin reaction?
Choose a licensed artist using high-quality inks, prep your skin well, and avoid harsh products during healing.
Tattoo preparation.
How should I prepare my skin in the week leading up to a tattoo?
Keep your skin well-hydrated, avoid sun exposure, exfoliate gently, and prioritise sleep and nutrition.
SKINGRAPHICA offers PRIME, a specifically formulated serum especially designed to prepare your skin for tattooing.
Can I get tattooed over dry or flaky skin?
It's not ideal. Dry or damaged skin can affect ink application and healing. Artists may reschedule if skin isn't in optimal condition.
Should I shave the area before my tattoo?
Only if advised by your artist. Improper shaving can cause micro-abrasions or irritation.
Is it safe to get a tattoo after a recent sunburn or skin peel?
No. Wait until the skin has fully recovered to prevent damage and poor ink retention.
Can alcohol or caffeine affect my tattoo session?
Yes. Both can thin your blood and increase bleeding, which may impact the tattooing process.
What should I eat or avoid on the day of my tattoo?
Eat a full, balanced meal before your session and avoid excess sugar or stimulants. Stay hydrated.
Can I take painkillers before my tattoo?
Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen, which thin the blood. Paracetamol is generally
considered safe, but check with your artist.
Is there anything I can do to reduce bleeding during the session?
Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and keeping calm can help. Your artist may also use techniques to minimise bleeding.
Should I moisturise my skin on the day of the tattoo?
Light moisturising is fine, but avoid heavy creams. Your artist will prep the area properly before starting.
Can I train or do sports before my tattoo appointment?
Light activity is okay, but avoid anything that could cause chafing or sweat irritation in the tattoo area.
Tattoo healing.
How long does the healing process take?
Initial healing takes 7–14 days. Full recovery of deeper skin layers can take 4–6 weeks.
SKINGRAPHICA's LOCK is an advanced Ink Grip and Recovery Complex for use immediately after the removal of your second skin.
What is normal during tattoo healing?
Redness, swelling, light scabbing, peeling, and itchiness are common. These typically resolve within 1–2 weeks.
When can I remove the second skin dressing?
Usually after 24–72 hours. Always follow your artist's instructions.
Why does my tattoo feel raised or bumpy?
Minor texture changes can happen during healing. It often settles with time. Persistent issues may need a professional check.
Can I work out while my tattoo is healing?
It's best to avoid heavy sweating or stretching near the tattoo area during the first few days.
What do I do if my tattoo gets wet in the shower?
Pat it dry gently with a clean towel. Avoid soaking it or letting water pool on the area.
How often should I wash my healing tattoo?
Gently clean it once or twice daily with lukewarm water and mild soap, then pat dry.
Can I scratch or rub my healing tattoo?
No. Scratching can remove scabs prematurely and damage the tattoo. Tap gently if it itches.
What if my tattoo gets infected?
Look for redness, pus, pain, or swelling that worsens. Seek medical attention promptly.
How do I tell the difference between normal healing and a problem?
Mild symptoms are normal. If pain increases or if there is spreading redness or discharge, contact a healthcare provider.
How do I tell the difference between normal healing and a problem?
Mild symptoms are normal. If pain increases or if there is spreading redness or discharge, contact a healthcare provider.
Tattoo protection.
How long should I wait before applying sunscreen to a new tattoo?
Only apply after the skin is fully healed, usually 2–3 weeks post-tattoo.
What kind of sun exposure can damage a tattoo?
Both UVA and UVB rays can cause fading, blurring, and colour change. Always
protect your tattoos outdoors.
Can tanning beds affect my tattoo?
Yes. Tanning accelerates ink fading and can lead to uneven skin tone and texture.
Is sunscreen enough to prevent fading?
It's essential but should be combined with other protections like clothing or shade, especially for fresh ink.
Can blue light from screens damage my tattoos?
Yes. Blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers penetrates deeper into the skin than UV rays, generating oxidative stress that may contribute to premature fading and dullness of tattoos. Daily SPF alone isn’t enough — antioxidants and blue-light-specific defence ingredients are also needed to help protect ink vibrancy.
Does sun damage affect black and grey tattoos?
Yes. They may fade more slowly than colour tattoos but are still vulnerable to UV degradation.
Should I cover my tattoo when going outdoors?
Yes, especially in the early weeks. Loose clothing and sun barriers help preserve vibrancy.
Will swimming in chlorinated water affect my tattoo?
Yes. Avoid swimming during healing. Chlorine can irritate the skin and affect healing.
Is salt water good or bad for tattoos?
Salt water can be drying and may sting during healing. Wait until the skin is fully recovered before exposure.
Can I travel to a hot climate with a new tattoo?
Yes, but be cautious. High heat, sweat, UV and blue light can all affect healing. Prioritise protection.
Will sunscreen clog or dull the look of my healed tattoo?
Some formulas may. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic option suitable for long-term use.
Will sunscreen clog or dull the look of my healed tattoo?
Some formulas may. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic option suitable for long-term use.
Will sunscreen clog or dull the look of my healed tattoo?
Some formulas may. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic option suitable for long-term use.
Tattoo restoration.
Why does my tattoo look dull months after healing?
Skin dryness, buildup, or sun exposure can dull a tattoo. Regular skincare and sun protection help maintain vibrancy.
Can I exfoliate tattooed skin?
Yes, but only after it's fully healed. Use gentle, non-abrasive exfoliation methods.
How do I keep older tattoos looking vibrant?
Hydration, sun protection, and healthy skin maintenance are key. Avoid harsh treatments over tattooed areas.
Will body lotions enhance the appearance of a tattoo?
Yes. Moisturised skin improves clarity and contrast. However, for noticeable tattoo restoration we suggest SKINGRAPHICA's Lume Restoration Emulsion.
Can I use makeup over my tattoo for special events?
Yes, if fully healed. Use gentle, long-wear products and remove with care.
What’s the best way to photograph my tattoo?
Use indirect lighting, moisturised skin, and a high-resolution camera. Avoid flash glare.
Why do tattoos sometimes look blurry or smudged with age?
Ink naturally disperses slightly over time. Sun damage and poor aftercare can worsen this.
Can you brighten an old tattoo?
Yes. SKINGRAPHICA's unique restoration emulsion LUME can improve the vibrancy and vividness of your tattoo.
How often should I moisturise tattooed skin?
Daily moisturising helps keep skin supple and enhances tattoo appearance. SKINGRAPHICA's SHIELD product is specific designed to provide daily long-term protection for tattoos.
Will laser treatments for skin texture affect my tattoo’s appearance?
Possibly. Always inform your provider of tattoos before undergoing laser
procedures.
Laser, Pigmentation & Skin Recovery
Is it safe to tattoo over an area that previously had laser treatment?
Only after complete healing and pigment stabilisation. Wait several months and consult both your artist and doctor.
I had laser resurfacing. When can I get a tattoo?
Wait 2–6 months post-procedure. Ensure skin is fully healed and even in tone.
Why do tattoos look patchy after laser removal?
Incomplete ink clearance or uneven healing can cause residual shadows or ghosting.
Can pigment changes occur after laser on tattooed skin?
Yes. Both darkening and lightening can occur, particularly in darker skin types.
What’s the best way to recover from laser before re-tattooing?
Focus on healing, barrier repair, and avoiding sun. Give skin time to stabilise.
Can I have cosmetic skin treatments (peels, microneedling) over tattoos?
Only after full healing. Avoid aggressive treatments that may blur or affect ink.
Will laser hair removal damage my tattoo?
Only after full healing. Avoid aggressive treatments that may blur or affect ink.
Can I tattoo over skin that’s been microneedled?
Yes, once the skin has fully recovered. Microneedling may even improve skin texture.
What’s the risk of scarring after laser tattoo removal?
Minimal with proper technique, but scarring can occur. Follow aftercare closely.
How long should I wait after tattoo removal before re-tattooing the area?
Typically 3–6 months depending on the laser used and skin recovery.
About PRIME
Why should I use PRIME before getting a tattoo?
PRIME prepares the skin for tattooing by improving hydration, barrier resilience, and surface smoothness. This helps create an optimised canvas for ink, supporting seamless needle glide and stable pigment grip.
How long before my session should I use PRIME?
Apply once or twice daily for at least 21 days prior to your tattoo appointment. To avoid any residue at the time of tattooing, discontinue use 12 hours before your session.
Do you recommend numbing creams before tattooing?
No. SKINGRAPHICA does not recommend numbing creams. While they may temporarily reduce sensation, they can alter skin texture and moisture balance, which may impact ink penetration, pigment distribution, and your artist’s precision.
PRIME conditions the skin naturally, supporting resilience without disrupting the tattoo process.
Can PRIME be used for cosmetic tattoos (e.g. brows, lips)?
Yes. PRIME may be used to prepare skin for cosmetic tattoos. Exercise caution near the eyes and mouth, and only apply externally to the intended skin area.
Is PRIME suitable for all skin types?
Yes. PRIME is dermatologist approved, fragrance-free, and formulated for sensitive, tattoo ready skin.
About LOCK
What is LOCK designed to do?
LOCK supports tattoo recovery by hydrating and balancing skin while helping protect the appearance of ink. It provides comfort during the immediate post-session phase when skin is adjusting.
When should I start using LOCK?
Apply after your covering or second skin is removed, typically within the first 24–72 hours after tattooing.
How do I apply LOCK?
Massage a thin, even layer over the tattooed area until fully absorbed. Use 3–5 times daily on clean, dry skin. Do not combine with other skincare products.
How long should I use LOCK?
Use consistently for 14 days or until the tattoo is fully recovered, whichever is longer. During this time, tattoos must be kept completely out of the sun - do not apply sunscreen directly to fresh tattoos.
Will LOCK help with itchiness?
Yes. LOCK contains ingredients known to calm discomfort and support balanced hydration, which can reduce the sensation of itch as skin renews.
Can LOCK be used for cosmetic tattoos?
Yes. LOCK may be used on cosmetic tattoos, including brows and lips, once the protective dressing is removed. Apply with care to the treated area, ensuring it is not ingested and does not enter the eyes or inside the mouth.
About SHIELD
Why does my tattoo need daily SPF protection?
UV rays, blue light, and environmental stressors are leading causes of tattoo fade and blur. SHIELD provides daily defence while maintaining skin comfort and hydration.
Can blue light from devices damage my skin or tattoo?
Yes. Blue light from phones, laptops, and even indoor lighting can create oxidative stress in the skin, which contributes to visible ageing and may cause tattoos to appear duller over time. SHIELD is formulated with mineral filters and antioxidants to help defend against both UV and blue light exposure.
How do I apply SHIELD?
Apply generously to clean, dry skin each morning. Reapply every 2–3 hours if outdoors, swimming, or sweating.
When should I start using SHIELD after a new tattoo?
Only begin using SHIELD once your tattoo’s recovery phase is complete - after approximately 14 days with LOCK or once the skin is fully settled.
Will SHIELD leave a white cast?
No. SHIELD uses advanced mineral dispersion to minimise residue while still providing strong protection.
Can LOCK be used for cosmetic tattoos?
Yes. SHIELD may be used on cosmetic tattoos, including brows and lips. Apply with care to the area, ensuring it is not ingested and does not enter the eyes or inside the mouth.
About LUME
What does LUME do for older tattoos?
LUME is designed to refresh the appearance of aged or dulled tattoos. Light-diffusing agents create an instant look of vibrancy, while gentle actives support gradual refinement of skin texture over time.
What age of tattoo does LUME work best on?
LUME works best on tattoos that are 3 years or older. Older tattoos often lose surface vibrancy and definition, making them the most responsive to LUME’s renewing effects.
Do all tattoo colours restore the same way?
Not exactly. Different pigments respond differently over time
- Black & Grey - Restore the strongest, looking bolder and more defined.
- Dark Blues & Greens - Often show noticeable clarity and vibrancy.
- Browns & Reds - Can revive moderately, but usually less than black or grey.
- Yellows, Oranges & Pinks - These lighter pigments tend to fade faster, so improvements may be more subtle.
- Purple - One of the most resistant to restoration, with smaller visible changes
- White - Fades the fastest and is often difficult to revive once dulled.
Why do some colours respond better than others?
It comes down to pigment science. Darker inks (like black and blue) are naturally more stable and reflect light in a way that makes them easier to refresh visually. Lighter tones (like yellow or white) break down faster in the skin, so their improvement tends to be more limited.
How do I apply LUME?
For settled tattoos (at least 8 weeks old), apply a thin, even layer to clean, dry skin. Massage gently until absorbed.
How long should I use LUME?
Apply twice daily for at least 10 days to support visible restoration. For long-term vibrancy, continue using LUME 2–3 times per week and pair with SHIELD daily.
How quickly will I see changes?
Some customers notice enhanced vibrancy from the first application. With consistent use, improvements in definition and luminosity may be observed within 10 days.
Individual results may vary.
How can I track my tattoo’s restoration progress with LUME?
We recommend taking a clear photo of your tattoo on Day 0 (before you start using LUME) and another on Day 10.
For the most accurate comparison, ensure both photos are taken with your tattoo in the same position, under the same lighting conditions, ideally in the same place and at the same time of day.
This consistency helps you see the improvements in vibrancy and clarity more clearly.
Can LUME be used on cosmetic tattoos?
Yes. LUME may be applied to cosmetic tattoos once fully settled. Use caution near the eye and lip areas, applying only externally and with care.
Does LUME alter tattoo ink?
No. LUME is Ink-Safe™ and works on the surrounding skin surface, not the pigment itself.
Science, Ingredients and Safety
Are your formulations tailored to each stage of the tattoo journey?
Yes. Each product is scientifically designed to support a specific phase - preparation, healing, protection, or enhancement. This targeted approach ensures your skin receives the right support at the right time for optimal ink stability and long-term clarity.
How do you develop your formulations?
Our formulas are created through a hybrid process that combines advanced human dermatological science with AI-driven analysis. This allows us to map ingredient interactions, skin needs, and performance data more precisely than ever before, ensuring the most effective and safe products for tattooed skin.
What does 'Ink-Safe' mean?
Our formulations are developed not to interfere with pigment take-up, retention or clarity. They avoid ingredients known to blur, fade, or disrupt fresh or healed tattoos.
What kind of testing do you do?
Products undergo dermatologist-supervised testing, Human Repeat Insult Patch Testing (HRIPT), in-vitro toxicological analysis, stability testing, preservative efficacy testing (PET), microbiological evaluation, and real-world consumer use trials across all skin tones. All testing is conducted in accordance with applicable cosmetic safety and regulatory standards in Australia, the EU, and the United States (FDA).
Our products are not tested on animals..
Are your products pharmaceutical or medicinal?
No. Our products are cosmetic in nature and designed to support skin health, not treat or cure medical conditions.
What ingredients do you avoid?
We exclude fragrance, essential oils, alcohols, parabens, sulphates, and common allergens. We also avoid any actives that may irritate healing skin.
Are your products safe for sensitive skin?
Yes. Our formulas are dermatologist approved and developed to be barrier-safe and non-irritating, making them suitable for sensitive, reactive, and hypoallergenic skin.
Can your products be used on non-tattooed skin?
Yes. While designed specifically for tattooed skin, our formulations are high-quality, barrier-repairing, and suitable for general skin use.
Where are your products manufactured?
All of our products are formulated and manufactured in Australia to exceptionally high quality and safety standards.
Ethics & Sustainability
Are your products cruelty-free and vegan?
All SKINGRAPHICA formulations are designed without animal-derived ingredients. Our squalane is plant-based, our ceramides are synthetic, and we do not use lanolin, beeswax, or other animal products. We also do not test on animals.
Are your products fragrance-free?
Yes. We are 100% fragrance-free to reduce the risk of irritation or sensitisation.
Do you use sustainable packaging?
Yes. Our packaging is recyclable, responsibly sourced, and designed to minimise waste.
Are your shipping materials eco-friendly?
Yes. We use recyclable boxes, biodegradable fillers, and low-impact packaging wherever possible.
Are your supply chains ethically sourced?
Yes. We work only with suppliers and labs that meet strict ethical sourcing and production standards.
Shipping & Delivery
WHAT COUNTRIES DO YOU SHIP TO?
We ship to the following countries:
🇦🇺 Australia
🇦🇹 Austria
🇧🇪 Belgium
🇨🇦 Canada
🇩🇰 Denmark
🇫🇮 Finland
🇫🇷 France
🇩🇪 Germany
🇬🇷 Greece
🇭🇰 Hong Kong
🇮🇪 Ireland
🇮🇹 Italy
🇯🇵 Japan
🇱🇺 Luxembourg
🇳🇱 Netherlands
🇳🇿 New Zealand
🇳🇴 Norway
🇵🇱 Poland
🇵🇹 Portugal
🇸🇬 Singapore
🇰🇷 South Korea
🇪🇸 Spain
🇸🇪 Sweden
🇨🇭 Switzerland
🇹🇼 Taiwan
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇺🇸 United States
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes. SKINGRAPHICA offers complimentary shipping on orders over USD $200 (or the equivalent in local currency) in select countries.
Depending on the destination, free or standard shipping may include customs duties and taxes. Where these are not included, any applicable costs will be clearly shown at checkout before you confirm your order.
Where are orders shipped from?
All orders are shipped directly from Australia. This allows for:
- Strict storage and handling controls to preserve product integrity.
- Minimal tariff impact for U.S. customers, as Australia is subject to the lowest U.S. tariff rate.
- End-to-end quality control, from manufacture through to dispatch.
- Consistent global fulfilment standards across all destinations.
What about orders shipped to Australia?
Australian orders are treated in the same way as international orders, with the added benefit of slightly faster delivery due to local distribution.
All Australian orders include complimentary shipping, regardless of order value.
How long will my order take to arrive?
All orders ship directly from Australia. To ensure the fastest possible delivery, we recommend selecting the “Duties Paid” option at checkout, which helps expedite customs clearance into your country and minimise delays.
Typical standard delivery timeframes from Australia (guides only):
- United States: 5–8 business days
- United Kingdom: 6–9 business days
- Europe: 6–10 business days
- Japan: 6–10 business days
- South Korea: 6–10 business days
Delivery times may vary depending on destination, customs processing, and local carriers.
Will I receive tracking information?
Yes. Once your order has shipped, you’ll receive an email with tracking details so you can monitor your delivery in real time.
What happens if my package is delayed or lost?
If your order is delayed beyond the estimated delivery time, or appears to be lost in transit, please contact the SKINGRAPHICA Concierge Team. We will work directly with our logistics partners to resolve the issue promptly.
Can I change my delivery address after placing an order?
If your order hasn’t yet shipped, the Concierge Team will do their best to update the address. Please contact them as soon as possible to request changes. Once shipped, delivery changes must be handled directly with the courier.
Returns & Refunds
Do you accept returns?
Yes. SKINGRAPHICA accepts returns on unopened, unused products in their original packaging within 30 days of delivery.
To start a return, contact the Concierge Team and they will provide detailed instructions.
Refunds are processed once the returned item is received and inspected. Please note that original shipping costs (if any) are non-refundable.
Where applicable, any customs duties, tariffs, or taxes paid by SKINGRAPHICA on your behalf cannot be refunded.
Tariffs, Taxes & Duties
Are tariffs, taxes, and duties included in the price?
For some destinations, SKINGRAPHICA covers these costs as part of the order. Where they are not included, the exact charges will be displayed at checkout alongside your shipping method.
CUSTOMS DUTIES AND FEES
We cover all duties and fees for:
🇨🇦 Canada
🇫🇷 France
🇩🇪 Germany
🇮🇪 Ireland
🇮🇹 Italy
🇪🇸 Spain
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇺🇸 United States
TARIFFS
We cover all tariffs for:
🇺🇸 United States
LOCAL TAXES
We include any taxes including V.A.T levied by specific countries at checkout. The payment of local taxes is the responsibility of the customer.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Shipments to the following countries may be subject to customs duties and taxes not displayed or included during checkout. We encourage you to check your local regulations before ordering.
🇭🇰 HONG KONG
🇯🇵 JAPAN
🇳🇴 NORWAY
🇸🇬 SINGAPORE
🇰🇷 SOUTH KOREA
🇨🇭 SWITZERLAND
🇹🇼 TAIWAN
Do you collect sales tax?
Yes. SKINGRAPHICA collects sales tax and V.A.T. when required by law in the purchaser’s country. This will be calculated and shown during checkout.
How does SKINGRAPHICA handle tariffs for U.S. customers?
As a thank you for the support of our U.S. customers, we’ve chosen to pay the full cost of newly imposed global tariffs levied at 10%, introduced by President Trump in February 2026, following a U.S. Supreme Court's ruling. As such, no tariffs will be applied to U.S. orders at checkout.
Together with complimentary shipping on orders over USD $200, this policy ensures our U.S. customers are supported as best as possible.
What about taxes for Australian orders?
A Note to Our Local Customers
As an Australian-owned brand, we’re proud to offer special domestic pricing that more than offsets the 10% GST applied at checkout.
By fulfilling your orders locally, we’re able to eliminate international customs fees and reduce shipping overheads. We choose to return those savings to you as a "thank you" for shopping local, ensuring SKINGRAPHICA remains most accessible in our own backyard.
How will I know if I need to pay additional costs?
At checkout, you’ll see a clear breakdown of shipping, tariffs, taxes, and duties. If any costs are not absorbed by SKINGRAPHICA, they will be shown before you confirm your order.
Important Notice
Shipments to the following countries may be subject to customs duties and taxes not displayed or included during checkout. We encourage you to check your local regulations before ordering.
🇭🇰 HONG KONG
🇯🇵 JAPAN
🇳🇴 NORWAY
🇸🇬 SINGAPORE
🇰🇷 SOUTH KOREA
🇨🇭 SWITZERLAND
🇹🇼 TAIWAN