Thinking of getting inked? If a tattoo is on your bucket list or if you want to add to your growing collection of body art, there’s no better time to make it happen than now. Whether it’s your first time or not, there is a variety of tattoo parlors in Metro Manila that have opened up and are welcoming clients in the new normal.
Here, we round up five places where you can get a tattoo in Metro Manila right now. From precise line work to vibrant watercolor body art, these studios will take your body art to the next level.
Fifty-Five Tinta
Founded by local musicians over a decade ago, Fifty-Five Tinta is an established player in the country’s ink community. Skilled artists, professional service, and a warm and laidback atmosphere make it the go-to of tattoo enthusiasts in and beyond Metro Manila.
Fully vaccinated clients do not need to get tested before getting inked, but unvaccinated clients are required to present a medical certificate with a negative RT-PCR or Antigen test result taken within three days before their appointment. Companions must also get tested. For convenience, Fifty-Five Tinta can arrange a same-day saliva Antigen test kit for clients. Other requirements include the mandatory wearing of face masks, face shields, and PPE suits.
Branches: Maginhawa (Quezon City), Poblacion (Makati City), San Juan (La Union)
Website: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube
P&P Tattoo
P&P Tattoo is another staple in the Philippine tattoo industry, offering a variety of styles for every kind of ink lover. Frequented by first-timers and enthusiasts alike, the studio features experienced artists who will work closely with you to make sure you walk out with the awesome body art you envisioned. While P&P Tattoo doesn’t require COVID-19 testing, there’s an option to request rapid testing at the shop for both client and artist. Usual health and safety protocols apply, including face masks and shields, proper sanitation, and social distancing.
Branches: Makati City, Tomas Morato (Quezon City), Puerto Princesa
Website: https://pandptattoo.com, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube
Crimson River Tattoo
If you’re looking for an all-woman team to bring your tattoo dreams to life, Crimson River is the place for you. Founded by Gigie Santiago, the studio brings together a collective of female artists who each bring a distinct style to the table, from minimalist designs to more complex colorwork.
In the wake of the pandemic, Crimson River seeks to make the inking experience a safe, clean, and pleasant experience with stringent guidelines and same-day saliva testing at the shop. It works strictly by appointment, so make sure you book on their website before coming over. Slots are limited.
Branch: Quezon City
Website: https://www.crimsonrivertattoo.com, Facebook, Instagram
Arte Tattoo
Another female-led tattoo studio in Metro Manila is Arte Tattoo, a shop that believes tattoos are a form of healing meditation. The skillful artists are well-versed in a variety of designs, whether you prefer dainty florals or more intricate drawings. With cozy interiors and warm people, it’s a comfortable place to get your first (or nth) tattoo. Due to the pandemic, sessions are appointment only.
Branches: Poblacion (Makati City), San Fernando (Pampanga)
Website: Facebook, Instagram
Whiplash Tattoo
In Whiplash Tattoo, getting “whipped” is a good thing. The edgy studio in Parañaque is renowned for its incredibly detailed designs, but the veteran team of DOH-certified tattoo artists is proven to be capable of a wide range of artwork. A tattoo will be on your skin forever, and Whiplash’s talented artists will work hard to craft the perfect one-of-a-kind piece that you’ll love.
Clients must submit a health declaration form for their appointment, but testing is not compulsory.
Branch: Parañaque
Website: Facebook, Instagram
Getting a tattoo is definitely an exciting time, but it’s important to stay safe while making your ink dreams come true. Make sure you reach out to the tattoo studio ahead of time to make sure they have a slot and artist ready for you. Face masks, face shields, and proper sanitation are essential, especially since complete social distancing isn’t possible between you and your artist.
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*Featured photo via cottonbro on Pexels
