Although you could argue that people have become a lot more accepting of anyone who appears different to ‘the norm,’ it would be difficult to say that people no longer judge based on appearances. This is especially true if you’re meeting someone for the first time. Whether it’s bright, unnaturally colored hair or a tattoo which runs the length of your body, some people will always judge a book by its cover.
This can be especially problematic considering four in ten US adults have tattoos. These permanent markings may be seen negatively when you meet the parents of the gal/guy you’re dating. In addition, tattoos can have a negative effect on employers. This can be so problematic that you’re less likely to be chosen for a job over candidates who are free from tattoos.
With this knowledge in mind, and forgetting whether it’s ‘right’ or not, sometimes it’s better to cover up or hide your tats. This includes meeting your significant other’s parents for the first time, interviewing for a new job or any number of events where your first time appearance can make or break an outcome.
To help you out at these times when you want your skin art to take a back seat, we’ve put together nine great options for keeping your tattoos under wraps. From wearing clothing that covers your skin to concealers designed specifically for the purpose of temporarily covering your tattoos, there’s a choice for everyone, no matter whether you’ve got your wife’s name on your wrist or a fire-breathing dragon that runs from head to toe.
1. Kat Von D Lock-It Concealer Creme
BEST OVERALL
The Kat Von D Lock-It Concealer Creme is brought to you by famous tattoo artist Kat Von D from TLC’s LA Ink. Quite rightly, she knows a thing or two about dealing with tattoos, including how to cover them up. Inside this compact concealer stick, you’ll find a super-versatile, rich and creamy concealer along with a handy brush for application. The concealer is available in over 20 different colors and lasts for up to 24 hours.

2. Maybelline New York Master Conceal
MOST CONCENTRATED FORMULA
is another well-loved option for covering tattoos, birthmarks, scars and other visible marks on your skin. This ultra-concentrated formula ensures the things you want to cover stay covered, while the handy pen-sized tube is easy to keep on you should you need to reapply. Once dry on your skin, the concealer is almost impossible to detect, creating the ideal camouflage for your tattoos. It’s also available in five different colors.

3. Tat2X Ink Armor Cover Up Sleeve
BEST INSTANT COVER
You may be more used to the idea of a person who doesn’t have tattoos using a sleeve to look like they do, but this lets you do the exact opposite. The USA-made product is available in a range of colors and skin tones to help you find one to match your skin for a convincing look. The sleeve also boasts a no-slip feature to keep it in place throughout the day, while the high-quality material also blocks out 98 percent of the sun’s harmful rays.

4. Derminpro Men’s Slim Fit Turtleneck
MOST VERSATILE
Turtlenecks are back! Did they ever really go away? Whatever the case, this offers cover for your tattoos while delivering plenty of style, too. It’s available in a range of colors, and when it’s not working to cover up your tattoos, it can be worn for general comfort and warmth. The soft and stretchy material sits close to your skin, hugging your figure while delivering a cosy feel.

5. SEGMINISMART Tattoo Concealer Kit
BEST CUSTOMIZABLE COLOR
The includes everything you need to keep your tattoos under wraps. In the set, you’ll find a light colored concealer, a darker colored concealer and a mixing pot, which allows you to mix and tailor the concealer to your exact skin color. It’s also long lasting and waterproof, which is ideal for outdoor parties where you may encounter the occasional shower.

6. BUOCEANS Official Tattoo Concealer
LONGEST LASTING
With an effective natural essence formula which can last up to three days, the is a long-lasting answer to hiding your tattoos, birthmarks and more. The three-piece kit boasts five-star reviews from over 80 percent of users who also love the fact the concealer is friendly to sensitive skin. To use the concealer, you first have to make up your color by adding small amounts of dark to the included mixing pot before applying it to your skin.

7. Dermablend Smooth Liquid Camo Concealer
BEST COMPACT
The is a compact answer to ensuring your tattoos stay hidden. It’s presented in a handy, stick-like bottle with a built-in wand for easy application on the go. This is a great option for keeping in your pocket while you’re on a date, at a party or at any other kind of social meeting. In addition, it’s available in five different colors and has been sensitive skin and allergy tested.

8. Judith August Killer Cover Concealer Set
BEST MULTI-COLOR OPTION
Inside this , you’ll find a range of different shades to ensure you’ve got something to hide your tats, scars and more. The professional-standard, five-color wheel gets progressively darker to cover a range of skin colors. You can also mix the colors to create the exact tone of your skin. The set includes a sponge for easy application and sports a screw-top lid, so you can be confident it won’t come undone in your pocket or backpack.

9. Dermacol Make-Up Cover
BEST ALL-WEATHER OPTION
Whether you’re looking to cover a tattoo, scar or birthmark, it’s more than likely there’s a shade of the to do the job. With options ranging from rich to fair and everything in between, this pocket-sized make-up could be the fix you’ve been dreaming of. In addition to being an effective cover up, this option is also waterproof, hypoallergenic and has an SPF 30 rating, meaning it’s ready to take on the challenges of daily life.

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