Last updated: January 2024
Looking for the best tattoo parlors in Manila? Don't worry; we've got you covered.
Tattoo parlors are in abundance in Manila. It is a booming industry due to its growing popularity and the increasing desire of Filipino people to express their individuality. All over the country, there is an increasing demand for tattoo artists. But why do people love tattoos? What do tattoos mean to them?
Tattoos are the ultimate form of self-expression. From butterflies to zombie slayers, they come in all shapes and sizes, from small to large, from simple to elaborate.
But, whether big or small, simple or elaborate, they all have one thing in common: a purpose. That purpose is to communicate something to the viewer; regardless of the amount of ink, a tattoo is a message.
And that message can sometimes be hard to read. The art of getting a tattoo is in the deciphering of those messages.
Luckily, there are a number of tattoo parlors in Manila that can help you get your message across. Whether you're a fan of the art or want to adorn your body with an exciting work of art, check out our list of popular tattoo parlors in Manila.
Top 7 Tattoo Parlors in Manila
1. Arte Tattoo
If you're looking for a place to get your next tattoo, check out Arte Tattoo Parlor. This isn't just any ordinary tattoo shop — it's the place to go if you're after a super delicate, original design or for first-timers who are still nervous about the inking scene.
You can choose from a wide range of colors and sizes, so you're bound to find something you love!
Arte Tattoo's owners, Charles Arteta and Kel Laquindanum believe that tattoos are a form of healing meditation.
The tattoo artists pay attention to the aforementioned things, creating a cooling, calming, and highly creative environment for everyone — even the customers who come in for only a consultation.
This kind of environment inspires people to flourish and be their authentic selves.
Moreover, the Arte Tattoo parlor will turn your sketch into a beautiful permanent work of art. Love or music? A favorite flower or animal?
Whatever you love and want to wear on your skin, Arte Tattoo can make it happen. Its talented artists specialize in minimalist designs and mandala artwork and do custom matching for couples looking for something uniquely them.
- Address:203 General Luna, Building Don Pedro, Makati, 1210 Metro Manila
- Website: Facebook Instagram
- Contact Number: 0939 026 6782
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2. Crimson River Tattoo
If you're looking to get inked by an all-female crew, Crimson River is the place for you. The acclaimed tattoo studio brings together an elite group of female artists who bring a distinct style to the table.
From minimalist designs to colorful, intricate pieces, Crimson River has a tattoo artist for every kind of customer.
Additionally, it is an industry leader in the art of tattooing. By using only the most-approved pigments, their artists can achieve a vibrant color on their clients' skin that won't fade.
They also employ a unique method for sterilization and disposal of needles, pigments, and other waste that keeps the artists and their clients safe from infection.
This shop also has an extensive, ever-changing collection of work from local artists that can be used as inspiration for your new ink.
The artists here will work with you to create a design for your tattoo perfectly suited to your vision and style, and then you'll get to watch them bring it to life.
- Address:3rd flr. LDR Bldg. 50 C. Aguinaldo St. corner J.P. Rizal Street, Project 4, Quezon City, 1109 Metro Manila
- Website: https://www.crimsonrivertattoo.com/
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday( 2:00 pm~7:00 pm) / Sunday to Monday (closed)
- Contact Number: 0999 598 7769
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3. Fifty-Five Tinta
When you get a tattoo, you want an experience — not just any old session with a random artist. With 55 Tinta, you can get an immersive experience full of music and art.
This parlor is filled with talented artists who are all passionate about the art form. They keep the vibe there lively through their friendly conversation and give their customers plenty of ideas.
This classic shop has fresh ink designs, excellent customer service, and a clean environment. It's well-known among tattoo artists as the place to go when you're ready to take your craft to the next level.
The artists here will focus on making sure you get exactly what you were looking for instead of just doing what they think is best.
You'll love the way your tattoos look—and when you do, you'll start to wonder why you were so nervous about getting inked in the first place!
Visit the shop right away and get started on the next big thing in your life.
- Address: 2F Luisa Bldg, 107 Maginhawa, Lungsod Quezon, 1101 Kalakhang Maynila
- Website: facebook Instagram
- Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday (1:00 pm ~ 10:00 pm)
- Contact Number: 0908 873 3871
4. P & P Tattoo
P&P Tattoo is a well-known tattoo studio in Metro Manila that offers a wide array of traditional and modern tattoos in an artsy, edgy atmosphere.
The studio has several awards under its belt, including the most famous Filipino tattoo artist award that they've been awarded four years straight.
Prices start at P2,000 for black and gray tattoos and cover-up tattoos, while colorful tattoos with tribal patterns are priced at P3,000.
Additionally, P&P Tattoo has assembled an experienced team of skilled tattoo artists dedicated to helping you achieve your vision.
Famed for its diverse range of styles, it's great whether you're a first-timer getting your first tattoo or if you're an enthusiast looking to add another piece to your collection.
Its artists always give their customers 110%, ensuring that you'll leave happy no matter what tattoo you want.
- Address: Condo, Bel-Air Soho, 45 Polaris, Makati, 1210 Metro Manila
- Website: https://pandptattoo.com/
- Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday (10:00 am ~ 6:00 pm)
- Contact Number: 0922 847 2637
5. Katribu Tatu
For artists looking to get an authentic, handcrafted tribal tattoo, Katribu Tatu is the place to go! Its owners, Jonathan and Jean, are both Filipino — they have deep knowledge of the art of traditional Filipino tattoos.
Both are also known practitioners of the craft — Jonathan has a million followers on Instagram who constantly fawn over his body art, and Jean has been featured in major publications in the country.
Tattooed by a traditional tattoo artist, the whole experience is different from the sterile, antiseptic environment you expect from a mall-based shop.
Think a back alley, with Jonathan at your side, explaining the significance of his art, while a woman in a traditional costume applies the tattoos using a bamboo needle and ink made from soot.
- Address:San Guillermo Avenue cor. A. Santos, Buting, Pasig City, Metro Manila
- Website: Facebook Instagram
- Opening Hours: Monday To Sunday (1:00 pm ~ 12:00 am)
- Contact Number: 0939-949-5818
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6. Whiplash Tattoo
Yok Genabe is one of Whiplash Tattoo's first tattooists and an expert in watercolor designs, black and gray tones, and everything in between. Whether you're looking for an intricate design or a simpler aesthetic, Yok can create a work of art that suits your personal style.
Whiplash Tattoo prides itself on its skilled tattooists and unique designs, but what sets them apart is how they treat their customers, and it has a strong focus on their clients and makes them comfortable.
As such, they've made an effort to have a clean, minimalistic interior that offers a welcoming atmosphere for new customers — and those getting their first tattoo.
They have white walls and several black benches for their customers to sit on as they wait to be called. There are also several long wooden tables lined up in the middle of the shop where their artists work. It's a good environment that feels relaxed — even during the busiest times.
- Address: Aguirre Ave, Parañaque, 1700 Metro Manila
- Website: facebook Instagram
- Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday ( 10:00 am ~ 7:00 pm)
- Contact Number:0998-557-4421
7. Vice Ink Tattoo
Vice Ink Tattoo is the first and only tattoo shop in the Philippines that combines international flair with local artists. Vice Ink Tattoo studio was founded by Raoul Olbes, who moved to London for his studies, and David Rapaport, a Las Vegas resident born and raised in the Philippines. With their shared love for tattooing and artistry, both started working together.
In 2010, they opened Vice Ink Tattoo in Manila. They quickly gained a reputation for their unique styles and their high quality of work. In a few years, Vice Ink has become one of Manila's most famous tattoo shops, with clients coming from different places.
Vice Ink Tattoo studio features a large variety of tattoo art in various tattoo styles, including traditional, black and gray, and color. They also do the old-style hand engraving and branding, which gives a unique touch to the tattoos.
- Address:#7838 Makati Avenue 1200 Makati
- Website
- Opening Hours: Open Daily
- Contact Number:0917-844-8423
Guide to Popular Tattoo Parlors in Manila
How much is the tattoo cost in the Philippines?
Tattoo prices in the Philippines vary depending on the size and complexity of the design. Tattoos range from a few hundred pesos for small symbols and lettering, to thousands of pesos for larger, more complex designs.
Additional costs may include design fees if the design is custom-made, or the cost of any equipment used. Some tattoos may also include additional fees for color or shading.
Generally, the cost of a complete tattoo with the proper aftercare can be between 15,000 to 20,000 pesos or higher.
How long will a 2 inch tattoo take?
A 2 inch tattoo will typically take around 2-3 hours to complete. The size of the tattoo will determine the length of time it takes to finish, with larger tattoos taking a lot more time and attention to detail.
Keep in mind that the more intricate and detailed the design is, the more time it will take to create and complete.
Your artist may also factor in other aspects such as the skin type, the pattern, and the color palette used for the tattoo when estimating how long it will take.
How long after a tattoo can I shower?
It is recommended that you wait 4 to 5 hours before showering after being tattooed. This is to ensure that all scabbing, lymph, plasma and infection are prevented and the tattoo remains healing properly.
After the 4 hours has passed, you can start to shower with lukewarm water for a maximum of five minutes. You should avoid any type of scrubbing or excessive contact with the tattoo.
Make sure you use a mild, non-scented soaped and avoid any type of steam or hot water.
After showering, gently pat your tattoo with a clean towel and apply a thin layer of recommended aftercare product. Follow these steps for the next few weeks in order to ensure your tattoo successfully heals.
What not to do after a tattoo?
One should avoid any sort of rigorous activity after getting a tattoo as it may open the skin and increase the risk of infection.
Alcohol should also be avoided due to its ability to thin the blood which may lead to increased bleeding and increased pain or discomfort.
Additionally, one should avoid soaking the tattoo for long periods of time or exposing the tattoo to direct sunlight.
Applying creams or lotions to the tattoo should also be avoided as the chemicals may interfere with the healing process.
Lastly, it is important to avoid removing the bandaging too soon as this could disrupt the healing process.
Tattoo Parlor Manila
Whether you're looking to give your body a little bit of novelty or have something personal and important to remember, you will find the right tattoo design for you.
But since there is a wide array of designs available there, finding one that satisfies all your needs should be challenging.
If you don't have any ideas on which tattoos to get, check out this list of 7 Tattoo Parlors in Manila. They are uniquely stylish, and they exhibit great artistry.
And if you can't find the perfect tattoo for you, try to get an entire collection of tattoos instead. That way, you can have a variety of meanings in one body.
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