A coverup tattoo in Los Angeles is a design problem before it is a tattoo. At Apollo, we read what's already on your skin — the saturation, the line weight, how it's aged — and build a new piece that uses those constraints instead of fighting them. We're a working studio at 2625 Main St in Santa Monica's Ocean Park, open 8am to 8pm seven days a week, and we'd rather tell you the truth in a free consultation than sell you a session that won't sit right.
Raa has been tattooing with us since 2012 and leads most of our trickier coverups — realism and portrait work over old tribal, faded script, and dense black where strategic color and shading do the heavy lifting. Founder Blue Mason (here since 2007) takes on black-and-grey and traditional rework. We match the chair to the idea, not the idea to this week's opening — bring photos of the existing piece, and we'll map out what's possible, what may need a lightening session first, and roughly how big the new design needs to be.
Book Free Cover Up Consultation
100s of Cover Ups Done 
Cover up tattooing is a specialized skill—not every tattoo artist can successfully transform existing ink.
Cover ups require understanding how colors interact, how to use existing lines strategically, and how to design around constraints. Our Los Angeles artists have dedicated training in cover up techniques.
Every cover up presents unique challenges. Our artists approach each project as a puzzle, finding creative solutions that transform limitations into design features.
We'll tell you what's possible—and what isn't. Some tattoos require laser lightening before cover up; others may need larger designs than you initially wanted. Our Los Angeles consultations are honest, not sales pitches.
Review our artists' before-and-after cover up work to see proven results, not just promises. We have hundreds of successful transformations to show you.
From name cover ups to full tribal transformations, explore the range of cover up work our Los Angeles artists excel at.
Whether it's an ex's name, a misspelled word, or text you've outgrown, we specialize in transforming unwanted lettering into beautiful new designs.
Tribal tattoos from the 90s and 2000s are among our most common cover ups. We can work with the existing lines or completely reimagine the space.
Dense black ink requires strategic design. We use color theory and placement to effectively cover even the darkest existing tattoos.
Full sleeves, back pieces, and other large-scale cover ups require vision and expertise. We plan these projects carefully for stunning results.
Clear next step
Free assessment of your cover up options—no obligation
Recommended first step
Reserve your tattoo session and let Apollo confirm the right artist, timing, and scope.
Tattoo bookings are a reservation, not the full session length. After you book, we will follow up to confirm your design details, quote range, and the total time needed for your piece so everything fits your vision and the schedule.
5000+ clientsWe examine your existing tattoo to understand its darkness, color, and how it's aged. This determines what designs are possible and whether laser lightening might help.
Together we explore design options that will effectively cover your existing tattoo while creating something you'll love. We show you realistic sizing and placement.
Your artist applies the cover up design with strategic technique, ensuring complete coverage and a result that looks intentional—not like a cover up.
Understanding what can be covered, how placement affects results, and strategic design choices for successful cover ups.
Cover Up Expert Cover Up Specialist
Blue Mason has 17+ years of experience transforming unwanted tattoos into beautiful new artwork. His expertise in cover ups spans from simple name covers to complex full-sleeve transformations over dark tribal work.
Realism Master Realism Cover Up Artist
Raa's mastery of photorealism makes him exceptional at cover ups requiring realistic imagery. His understanding of color and shading allows him to work around challenging existing ink.
Cover Up Expert Cover Up Artist
David's fine arts background gives him unique vision for cover up design. He excels at seeing possibilities in challenging pieces and creating designs that not only cover but elevate.
Jr. Artist Jr. Artist
Hannah brings fresh energy and meticulous attention to detail. Specializing in delicate fine line work, script, and minimalist designs.
From consultation to completed transformation, we're dedicated to delivering the cover up of your dreams, while making your experience smooth, inspiring, and unforgettable—right here in Santa Monica's Ocean Park.
A stunning cover up tattoo deserves exceptional care. After your session, you'll receive detailed aftercare instructions, ensuring you know exactly how to care for your new tattoo. Our team is always available by phone, text, or email for any questions throughout the healing process.
Cover ups often involve more ink saturation than typical tattoos—proper aftercare is essential for optimal results.
Book AppointmentKeep bandage on for 2-4 hours. Gently wash with unscented soap. Apply thin layer of aftercare ointment. Expect redness and slight swelling.
Light peeling and flaking is normal. Don't pick or scratch. Continue moisturizing. Avoid swimming and excessive sweating.
Outer skin heals. May appear slightly dull—this is normal. Full healing takes 4-6 weeks. Continue sun protection.
Every Apollo tattoo uses 100% vegan ink — Fusion, World Famous, and Dynamic brands. No animal products, no compromises on color or longevity.
See What Our Satisfied Clients Have to Say
"Blue transformed my terrible tribal band into an amazing sleeve. I can't even tell there was anything there before. True cover up magic!"
"Had an ex's name I needed covered for years. The team at Apollo designed something beautiful that completely hides it. So grateful!"
"Apollo gave me my skin back. My old faded tattoo is now a stunning piece of art. The consultation was honest and the result exceeded expectations."
"I was told by 3 other shops my black tattoo couldn't be covered. Blue proved them wrong with an incredible design. Best cover up artist in LA!"
"The creativity in designing around my old tattoo was impressive. They saw possibilities I never imagined. Worth every penny."
"Professional, honest, and incredibly skilled. They told me what was possible and delivered exactly that. My regret is now my favorite tattoo."
5000+ clients
Santa Monica, CA
Apollo was founded by Blue Mason in 2007. With 20+ years of body art experience, Blue brings master-level expertise to every piece. Read Blue's story →
Common questions about cover up tattoos in Los Angeles
Most tattoos can be covered, but success depends on the existing ink's darkness, color, and placement. Very dark or heavily saturated tattoos may need laser lightening first. Our Los Angeles artists assess each case individually during a free consultation to determine the best approach.
Cover ups typically need to be 30-50% larger than the original tattoo, depending on darkness and complexity. Some designs require even larger coverage. We'll show you realistic sizing during consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
Yes, but black ink is challenging. We use strategic design, heavy saturation, and sometimes darker colors to effectively cover black tattoos. Very dense black may benefit from laser lightening first to give us more design flexibility.
Most cover ups complete in 1-3 sessions, depending on size and complexity. Some large or complex cover ups may require more. We'll estimate session count during your consultation at our Los Angeles studio.
Cover up is ideal if you want new artwork and your existing tattoo isn't extremely dark. Laser removal is better if you want blank skin or your tattoo is too dense for effective coverage. Some clients benefit from laser lightening before cover up. We can advise during your free consultation.
Apollo sits at 2625 Main St in Santa Monica, a block from the beach and easy to reach from anywhere on the Westside. Here's roughly how long it takes to get to us for tattoos and piercings:
There's metered street parking on Main Street and Ocean Park Blvd, plus a public lot on 2nd Street a short walk away. We recommend giving yourself an extra 10 minutes to park on weekends — Main Street gets busy with the farmers market and beach traffic. If you're running late, text us at the studio and we'll hold your appointment.
Book your free cover up consultation with our specialists today.
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