Post Malone, the genre-bending artist, has become as well-known for his distinctive face tattoos as for his chart-topping hits. Since rising to fame with “White Iverson” in 2015, Malone has steadily adorned his body with ink, but it’s his facial tattoos that have truly captured public attention and sparked countless conversations. Perhaps the most recognizable is the poignant “Always Tired” script beneath his eyes, a piece that speaks volumes about his persona and, as he revealed in a 2020 GQ interview, stems from a place of personal insecurity. Reflecting on his decision to embrace facial tattoos, Malone confessed, “I’m a ugly-ass motherf—–. It does maybe come from a place of insecurity, to where I don’t like how I look, so I’m going to put something cool on there so I can look at myself and say, ‘You look cool, kid,’ and have a modicum of self-confidence, when it comes to my appearance.” This vulnerability, paired with the striking visual impact of his tattoos, has solidified Post Malone’s unique place in pop culture.
While recently, Malone even opted to temporarily conceal his tattoos for the “Fortnight” music video with Taylor Swift, proving their visual power is both intentional and adaptable, his face remains a canvas that tells a story. From tributes to his daughter to bold declarations of his personality, each tattoo adds a layer to the complex tapestry of Post Malone’s identity. Let’s delve into the world of Post Malone’s face tattoos and explore the meanings and stories behind each iconic piece of ink.
Decoding Post Malone’s Face Tattoos: A Detailed Look
Post Malone’s face is a gallery of diverse and striking tattoos, each with its own story and significance. While some are prominent and immediately noticeable, others are more subtle, peeking out from beneath his beard or hairline. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the most notable face tattoos that define Post Malone’s unique aesthetic.
“Always Tired”: The Signature Statement
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-8-8f9a0c8950c84ff49dc9c70b477a266a.jpg)
The “Always Tired” tattoos, inked in cursive script under both eyes, are arguably Post Malone’s most famous facial markings. These words resonate with many, capturing a feeling of constant exhaustion in the modern world. For Post Malone, the placement was as impactful as the message. He described the pain as “like getting poked on your eyeball through your eyelid” in his GQ interview, highlighting the commitment to his artistic vision despite the discomfort. Beyond the relatable sentiment, “Always Tired” adds an element of intrigue to his face, drawing viewers in and prompting reflection on the meaning behind the words.
Daughter’s Initials “DDP”: A Father’s Love
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(719×0:0:721×2)/Post-Malone-Gets-Newborn-Daughters-Initials-Tattooed-on-His-Forehead-100522-889fd4d2394647f1905623f902a3c0f5.jpg)
In a heartfelt tribute to his baby daughter, Post Malone tattooed her initials, DDP, in a large gothic font on his forehead. This sentimental tattoo, placed prominently for all to see, is a powerful symbol of his love and dedication to his child. As a touring musician, the “DDP” tattoo serves as a constant reminder of his daughter while he’s on the road. He shared with GQ in 2022, “It’s really tough not being able to see her, but she’s coming out more often now. I’m just happy to see her. But it is heartbreaking having to leave and not be able to be with her all the time.” This tattoo beautifully encapsulates the bond between father and daughter, rendered in Post Malone’s signature bold style.
Blackjack Playing Cards: A Gamble on Ink
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-3-f8048368baf34dc78540fd116e3a9597.jpg)
Located near his right temple, the blackjack playing cards tattoo is a playful and personal addition to Post Malone’s face. He got this tattoo in Montreal simply “for fun” and because of his love for playing blackjack, as he mentioned in a 2016 GQ interview. This tattoo reveals a lighter side to his personality, showcasing his enjoyment of games of chance and his willingness to incorporate personal interests into his body art. The placement, while visible, is less overtly confrontational than some of his other face tattoos, adding a touch of whimsy to his overall look.
Barbed Wire: Edgy Hairline Accent
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-4-e7b009aa4b2c40e7b67176ab201905e0.jpg)
The barbed wire tattoo that encircles Post Malone’s hairline adds a subtle yet edgy detail to his facial tattoos. Often partially hidden by his hair, this tattoo provides a textural element and reinforces a slightly rebellious aesthetic. While he jokingly told GQ about potential regret when balding, the barbed wire symbolizes a cool and perhaps slightly dangerous vibe, aligning with certain aspects of his musical persona. It’s a testament to how even seemingly simple designs can contribute to a carefully constructed image.
Medieval Gauntlet and Flail: Bold and Impressive
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-5-509b76a161d641068778ced89be36dfc.jpg)
A striking medieval gauntlet and flail weapon tattoo makes a bold statement on Post Malone’s face. Inked by artist Kyle Hediger just before his Times Square New Year’s Eve performance in 2019, this tattoo is hard to miss. The detailed gauntlet, gripping a spiked flail that extends down his cheek, showcases a fascination with medieval imagery and weaponry. This piece adds a layer of toughness and historical allusion to his face, demonstrating his willingness to embrace large and impactful designs in prominent locations.
Bloody Buzzsaw: Sharp and Shocking
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(539×0:0:541×2)/83204382_613103946139462_1085942480475305546_n-59be4ba68ddc4f7d8225f34f80a8fdcb.jpg)
Adding an element of shock and visual interest, the bloody buzzsaw tattoo on Post Malone’s cheek is a particularly eye-catching piece. He documented the tattooing process on his Instagram Story in 2020, giving fans an intimate look at his commitment to body art. The buzzsaw, depicted with dripping blood, introduces a darker, more aggressive motif to his face. This tattoo, acquired during a tour stop in Kansas City, exemplifies his spontaneous approach to tattoos and his embrace of unconventional and sometimes unsettling imagery.
Snake-Tongued Woman (Medusa): Mythological Edge
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-6-e4ad90dafc514af49bafd23558bf5376.jpg)
Post Malone’s rendition of Medusa, the snake-haired Gorgon from Greek mythology, decorates the left side of his head. This tattoo is most visible when he sports a shaved head, revealing its full detail. Medusa, known for her ability to turn onlookers to stone, adds a layer of mythical and powerful femininity to his tattoos. This choice of imagery suggests an appreciation for classic mythology and a willingness to incorporate complex and symbolic figures into his personal brand.
Skull: Scalp Statement
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-7-c7360b65622848b2a87548eb421e51de.jpg)
In 2020, alongside a buzz cut, Post Malone debuted a large skull tattoo across his scalp, stretching from the top of his head to his ear. This dramatic tattoo makes a bold statement, especially when his hair is short. He announced the new ink on Instagram, writing, “I have cut my hair even shorter, also skeletons are cool. Spread your heart as much as you can. A little love goes farther than you think. Stay strong, and keep kicking ass.” The skull, a classic symbol of mortality and rebellion, combined with his positive message, showcases the duality often present in Post Malone’s public persona.
Red Heart: A Pop of Color
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-10-2b34a5e5102c457fa9d0590a049ba8e0.jpg)
Adding a splash of color to his predominantly black ink, a bright red heart is tattooed near Post Malone’s left temple. The meaning of this simple yet vibrant tattoo remains somewhat ambiguous, allowing for personal interpretation. In a sea of darker, more complex designs, the red heart stands out, perhaps symbolizing love, passion, or simply a touch of unexpected warmth within his overall aesthetic.
Waves: Japanese Artistry
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-11-4e9b6d88f552419e9720c05665bab9d5.jpg)
Japanese-inspired wave designs flow across one side of Post Malone’s head, injecting an element of artistic elegance amidst the weapons and bolder imagery. Inked by artist Ganji during a visit to Tokyo, these waves bring a touch of international influence and represent fluidity, strength, and the power of nature. The wave tattoo contrasts with the more aggressive themes of some of his other face tattoos, highlighting the multifaceted nature of his artistic interests.
“Stoney”: Album Tribute
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-2-8ed7304efb9146b2b5972c09aefe291c.jpg)
Tucked discreetly under his chin, the word “Stoney” is a tribute to Post Malone’s debut album from 2016. This tattoo serves as a permanent reminder of his breakthrough moment and the project that launched his career into superstardom. Often concealed by his beard, “Stoney” is a personal and understated homage to his artistic beginnings, a hidden nod to the foundation upon which his fame is built.
“Stay Away”: Early Ink, Inspired by Peep & Nirvana
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-12-25e493edc1564de797751f65f3e141d2.jpg)
One of Post Malone’s earliest face tattoos, “Stay Away,” is written in flowing script above his right eyebrow. He has cited rapper Lil Peep’s “Cry Baby” tattoo and his favorite Nirvana song as inspirations for this piece. “Stay Away” can be interpreted as a personal mantra, a statement about boundaries, or even a reflection of his introverted tendencies despite his public persona. As an early face tattoo, it marks a significant step in his journey of self-expression through body art.
Skull with Horns: Demonic Detail
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-1-1-ca709a2b6ae24b2e9252161804a4f50e.jpg)
A skull with horns, tattooed on the lower side of his face near his ear and just below the Medusa, adds another layer of dark and edgy imagery. This tattoo contributes to the recurring skull motif in Post Malone’s body art and introduces a demonic or fantastical element. The horned skull, often associated with rebellion and the macabre, further solidifies his image as an artist who embraces unconventional and sometimes provocative symbolism.
Small Symbols: Playboy Bunny, Heart, Smiley, Hammer, “DDP”
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-14-f1df38c82a93440ca2951357f19fed5c.jpg)
Clustered under his right eye is a collection of small, whimsical tattoos. These include a tiny Playboy Bunny, a heart, a smiley face with Xs for eyes, and a bloody hammer. The smiley face, one of his earliest tattoos, was unintentionally reminiscent of Marshmello’s logo. These smaller designs offer a contrast to the larger, more imposing tattoos on his face, adding a touch of playful randomness and personal symbolism. Notably, his daughter’s initials “DDP” also appear within this cluster, reinforcing the importance of family in his life.
Sword: Claymore on the Face
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-15-c1d55ae79f174f0186738e57a1f96892.jpg)
A long sword, starting at his temple and extending down to his jawline on the right side of his face, is another prominent and impactful tattoo. Post Malone expressed his lifelong fascination with swords to GQ, stating, “Swords are f—— awesome and I’ve always been into them since I was a little kid. What better [way] to make my mom mad than a big Claymore on my face?” This tattoo embodies a sense of power, medieval romanticism, and perhaps a touch of rebellious humor, as suggested by his comment about his mother’s reaction.
“7”: Tiny and Subtle
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-16-995c23fc40424cc4918e502801349807.jpg)
Almost imperceptible at first glance, a tiny number “7” is tattooed at the top of Post Malone’s nose. This minuscule tattoo is a testament to his commitment to detail and his willingness to incorporate even the smallest designs into his overall aesthetic. The meaning of the “7” is not explicitly stated, leaving room for speculation – it could be a lucky number, a personal reference, or simply an aesthetic choice.
Texas Outline: Hometown Pride
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-024f7e87f87a4453826165792c2c554f.jpg)
A faint outline of the state of Texas is tattooed behind Post Malone’s left ear, a subtle homage to his upbringing in the Lone Star State. This tattoo represents his roots and his connection to Texas culture. While understated, the Texas outline is a clear symbol of regional pride and personal history, incorporated into his body art in a less overt manner than some of his more prominent tattoos.
New York State: Birthplace Nod
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-17-fd0f634266c34e9197a534c714cf7153.jpg)
Mirroring his Texas tribute, Post Malone also has a small outline of New York State behind his right ear, acknowledging his birthplace of Syracuse, New York. This tattoo, like the Texas outline, signifies a connection to his origins and a sense of place. By including both his birth state and his home state, Post Malone subtly maps his personal geography onto his body, creating a layered narrative through his tattoos.
The Broader Tattoo Landscape of Post Malone
While his face tattoos are undeniably iconic, Post Malone’s body is a comprehensive canvas of ink. His arms are completely covered in sleeves featuring portraits of music legends like Johnny Cash, Kurt Cobain, and Elvis Presley, alongside skulls, snakes, and various other motifs. His hands are equally adorned, with knuckle tattoos spelling out “REST EASY” and portraits of John F. Kennedy and more musical icons. Even his chest, torso, and legs feature a diverse array of tattoos, from movie and video game references to further skull and weapon designs.
However, it is the face tattoos that remain his most defining and talked-about feature. They are a bold declaration of self-expression, vulnerability, and artistic identity. Post Malone’s face tattoos have not only become a signature part of his image but have also sparked broader conversations about beauty standards, self-perception, and the evolving role of tattoos in mainstream culture.
In conclusion, Post Malone’s face tattoos are far more than just random designs. They are carefully curated expressions of his personality, his insecurities, his passions, and his journey. Each tattoo tells a story, contributing to the intricate and compelling narrative that is Post Malone, the tattooed icon of modern music.
