LosLifeRuiner.com

The word “veganism” denotes a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude — as far as is possible and practical — all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of humans, animals and the environment. In dietary terms it denotes the practice of dispensing with all products derived wholly or partly from animals.
- Memorandum of Association of the Vegan Society

Veganism for me isn’t just a dietary choice, but more so a lifestyle. Showing LOVE, non-violence, respect for animal life, and our environment.

Vegan Tattooing

Its taken a long time to find all the right materials, and resources but it is now possible. Here are some of the materials I use for tattooing and why:

Ink/Pigment: All my pigment is free of animal based glycerin which is typically used as an ingredient. The ingredients are 100% organic and non toxic. This also includes Black. Ive talked to owners and chemists and all have assured me as well as other artist of the integrity of their inks, and how they’re free from animal products. One has even invited me to watch the inks be mixed inhouse from start to finish, and how none of their pigment is made by an outside paint company. I wouldn’t use any of these products if they wern’t quality. Ive been tattooed with all of them, and I am more than pleased with the results.

Soaps: I use Dr. Bronners Castile Soap. Its 100% Vegan and Fair Trade!! Doesn’t Contain Lanolin or animal based glycerin like most Green Soaps or Surgical Soaps.

Razors: Simple razors just without the lubricating strip. (Don’t worry  I wont give you a dry shave, that’s what the soap is for lol)

Ointments (during tattooing and for healing): After Inked! Its Vegan, Edible, and in a biodegradable pillow pouch. This stuff is great to use during the tattoo, while it heals, and after even as a simple moisturizer. Here’s some fats from their website:

• Enriched with Grape Seed Oil
• Natural / No harmful chemicals
• Paraben-Free / Fragrance-Free
• Non-petroleum based
• No animal-derived ingredients (Vegan)
• Will not stick to your clothes
• Safe on all skin types / Doesn’t clog pores
• Airless system dispenser to prevent contamination
• Recyclable packaging (environmentally friendly)
• Used, endorsed and recommended by Professional Tattoo Artists
• Manufactured in an FDA approved facility

Usually A & D is used during the process of tattooing, but the problem is, is that A & D’s main ingredient is petroleum jelly which is made with a vacuum process using bone char. Petroleum is a depleting resource and isn’t great for your skin when it comes to tattooing. Not tattooing so much of it directly into your skin with the ink will cut down the healing time.

For more info, or to purchase some “After Inked” products visit their site: www.afterinked.com

If you have any question about Vegan Tattooing, or Veganism, email me directly at: theoceanwar@me.com

Also visit these sites for more information on a vegan lifestyle:
www.goveg.com
www.vegan.org
www.vrg.org
www.veganoutreach.com
www.veganvillage.co.uk
www.wheelofliferestaurant.com
www.nativefoods.com

*Thank you to everyone who helped with information and encouragement, we are changing this world! Scapegoat Tattoo, After Inked, Classic Color Systems, Eternal ink, Mothers Market, and everyone else!*