Why Did Post Malone Get Face Tattoos? Post Malone’s face tattoos are a striking feature of his public image, often sparking curiosity and discussion, and on tattooat.com, we dive deep into the reasons behind his artistic choices. Beyond aesthetics, these tattoos represent a journey of self-expression and personal significance. Explore the world of Post Malone’s body art and uncover the meanings and motivations behind his iconic ink, including references to his daughter, musical inspirations, and personal beliefs.
1. A Canvas of Self-Expression: Post Malone’s Tattoo Journey
Post Malone’s foray into the world of tattoos began in 2015, coinciding with the release of his debut single, “White Iverson.” Since then, he has steadily accumulated a collection of designs across his body. His face tattoos, however, have garnered the most attention.
1.1. Addressing Insecurities Through Art
In a 2020 interview with GQ, Post Malone openly discussed the motivations behind his facial ink. He candidly stated, “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 revelation highlights how Post Malone uses tattoos as a means of boosting self-esteem and transforming perceived flaws into artistic statements.
1.2. More Than Just Ink: A Personal Narrative
Post Malone’s tattoos are more than just skin-deep adornments; they are visual representations of his life experiences, passions, and tributes to those he admires. Each design tells a story, contributing to the complex tapestry of his identity.
2. Decoding the Ink: A Guide to Post Malone’s Face Tattoos
Post Malone’s face is a canvas that showcases a variety of unique and symbolic tattoos. Here’s a closer look at some of his most notable facial ink:
2.1. “Always Tired”: A Signature Statement
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-8-8f9a0c8950c84ff49dc9c70b477a266a.jpg)
Perhaps his most recognizable tattoos, the words “Always Tired” are inked in cursive below his eyes. Added in 2018, these words resonate with many, reflecting the exhaustion that can accompany a demanding lifestyle. Post Malone has mentioned that while the placement was painful, he feels the face tattoos make him more interesting to look at.
2.2. DDP: A Father’s Tribute
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(719×0:721×0)/Post-Malone-Gets-Newborn-Daughters-Initials-Tattooed-on-His-Forehead-100522-889fd4d2394647f1905623f902a3c0f5.jpg)
In a heartfelt tribute to his daughter, Post Malone had her initials, DDP, tattooed on his forehead in a gothic script. This sentimental tattoo serves as a constant reminder of his love for his child, especially while he is on tour. He shared with GQ in 2022 how difficult it is to be away from her, making this tattoo even more meaningful.
2.3. Blackjack Playing Cards: A Love for the Game
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-3-f8048368baf34dc78540fd116e3a9597.jpg)
A suite of blackjack cards adorns the right side of his face, near his temple. Post Malone told GQ in 2016 that he got this tattoo in Montreal “for fun” because he enjoys playing blackjack.
2.4. Barbed Wire: A Cool Aesthetic
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-4-e7b009aa4b2c40e7b67176ab201905e0.jpg)
A line of barbed wire is tattooed around his hairline, although it is not always visible depending on his hair length. He jokingly told GQ that he simply thinks barbed wire is cool but anticipates regretting it when he starts balding.
2.5. Medieval Gauntlet and Flail: A Bold Statement
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-5-509b76a161d641068778ced89be36dfc.jpg)
Post Malone’s last tattoo of 2019 was a medieval gauntlet and flail weapon, inked by artist Kyle Hediger right before his Times Square New Year’s Eve performance. The gloved hand holds a spiky flail that dips below one cheekbone.
2.6. Bloody Buzzsaw: A Visceral Design
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(539×0:541×2)/83204382_613103946139462_1085942480475305546_n-59be4ba68ddc4f7d8225f34f80a8fdcb.jpg)
In 2020, Post Malone added a bleeding buzzsaw to his cheek, documenting the process on his Instagram Story. This tattoo was done while he was visiting Kansas City on tour.
2.7. Snake-Tongued Woman: A Medusa-Inspired Look
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-6-e4ad90dafc514af49bafd23558bf5376.jpg)
His take on Medusa decorates the left side of his head and is visible only when he’s rocking a shaved head.
2.8. Skull: A Symbol of Strength
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-7-c7360b65622848b2a87548eb421e51de.jpg)
In 2020, Post Malone got a buzz cut and debuted a new tattoo: a huge skeleton head drawn across his scalp, stretching from the top of his head to one ear. He shared in an Instagram post that skeletons are cool and encouraged fans to spread love.
2.9. Red Heart: A Splash of Color
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-10-2b34a5e5102c457fa9d0590a049ba8e0.jpg)
The meaning behind the bright red heart near his left temple isn’t clear, but it’s a colorful addition to Malone’s mostly black facial art.
2.10. Waves: A Touch of Artfulness
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-11-4e9b6d88f552419e9720c05665bab9d5.jpg)
Japanese-inspired wave designs decorate one side of Malone’s head, adding a touch of artfulness to the weapons drawn across his skin. The tattoos were courtesy of artist Ganji, who inked the singer in Tokyo.
2.11. “Stoney”: A Nod to the Beginning
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-2-8ed7304efb9146b2b5972c09aefe291c.jpg)
Tucked under Malone’s chin is the word “Stoney,” a tribute to his 2016 debut album. However, the tattoo is often covered by his beard.
2.12. “Stay Away”: An Early Statement
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-12-25e493edc1564de797751f65f3e141d2.jpg)
One of Malone’s earliest face tattoos was the words “Stay Away” written in flowing script above his right eyebrow. He shared that it was inspired by rapper Lil Peep’s “Cry Baby” tattoo and is a reference to his favorite Nirvana song.
2.13. Skull with Horns: A Darker Aesthetic
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-1-1-ca709a2b6ae24b2e9252161804a4f50e.jpg)
Post Malone has a skull with horns tattooed on the lower side of his face near one ear, just below the Medusa.
2.14. Small Symbols: A Collection of Meanings
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-14-f1df38c82a93440ca2951357f19fed5c.jpg)
Malone also has a small collection of tiny designs under his right eye: a small Playboy Bunny rabbit head, a heart, his daughter’s initials, and a smiley face with Xs for eyes grouped together. He also has a bloody hammer next to the smaller tattoos.
2.15. Sword: A Love for the Blade
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-15-c1d55ae79f174f0186738e57a1f96892.jpg)
A long sword is inked on the right side of Malone’s face, starting at his temple and ending near his jaw. He shared with GQ that swords are awesome and he’s always been into them since he was a little kid.
2.16. 7: A Tiny Detail
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-16-995c23fc40424cc4918e502801349807.jpg)
Malone has a teeny, tiny 7 tattooed at the top of his nose.
2.17. Texas Outline: A Homage to His Roots
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-024f7e87f87a4453826165792c2c554f.jpg)
The “Circles” singer was raised in Texas and paid homage to his home with a faint tattoo of the shape of the southern state behind his left ear.
2.18. New York State: A Birthplace Shout-Out
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-17-fd0f634266c34e9197a534c714cf7153.jpg)
He also shouted out his birthplace of Syracuse, New York with a small outline of the state behind his right ear.
3. Beyond the Face: Exploring Post Malone’s Extensive Tattoo Collection
While his face tattoos are the most prominent, Post Malone’s body is adorned with a vast array of designs, each holding its own significance.
3.1. Arm Tattoos: A Sleeve of Stories
Post Malone’s arms are covered in an intricate collection of tattoos, forming full sleeves that tell a multitude of stories. These designs range from tributes to musical icons to personal symbols and recurring motifs.
3.1.1. Playboy Bunny: The First Mark
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-18-9cd5a12aa2314acd8e33ba048c076e22.jpg)
According to Malone, the Playboy Bunny on his arm was his first tattoo ever and was inspired by Justin Bieber. He shared that he doesn’t know why he chose a bunny for his monumental first tat.
3.1.2. Johnny Cash: A Musical Idol
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-19-ea92c090d60b4657baa43e7d0c94016e.jpg)
Malone has a detailed profile of Johnny Cash on his left shoulder.
3.1.3. Posty Co.: Branding Himself
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoo-3-66631a70fa34479f950a73617d679b5c.jpg)
The Grammy-nominated artist has the name of his brand, Posty Co., tattooed in all-caps inside his left wrist.
3.1.4. Texas Flag Skull: A Colorful Nod
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-20-5d7d17e4aa0442e8b5e9ad6520ef9555.jpg)
While most of Malone’s tattoos are black and gray, he does have a few colorful pieces in his collection, like this smiling skull with a blue-and-red Texas flag motif. It’s another nod to his Texas upbringing.
3.1.5. Sauron: A Villainous Character
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-2-c1a7254818b94ed79f1a71650b05db6f.jpg)
Malone has the Lord of the Rings character Sauron tattooed on his right elbow.
3.1.6. Minuteman and Man on a Horse: Historical Imagery
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-22-400bc61a3fa340c7a11b1ffc27572ea8.jpg)
On the front of Malone’s right forearm are two different tattoos: one of a Minuteman and another of a “guy on a horse stabbing a guy with a spear.”
3.1.7. Post Malone Riding a Horse: Tattoo Inception
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-1-08674dc1fe9949d79f4b89ac630609d6.jpg)
According to Malone, his friend Kyle grabbed inspiration from a video game and added the rapper’s face to one of the characters.
3.1.8. Praying Hands with a Gun: A Controversial Combination
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-28-c50ee1d6be874f4f829f15bed07894ac.jpg)
Malone has a giant set of praying hands holding a Glock pistol on one shoulder, another reference to his interest in guns.
3.1.9. “Patient”: A Music Video Reference
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-23-ae327867e80940838bcfed0bee584caf.jpg)
He also has the word “Patient” tattooed in a jagged font on one bicep as a reference to a music video for his song of the same name.
3.1.10. “So Far, So Good, So What”: A Megadeth Nod
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-1-56c1f5cde04241f4b86b63dfc105738b.jpg)
One of Malone’s earlier tattoos includes the words “So far, So good, So what,” likely a reference to a Megadeth album.
3.1.11. Don’t Tread on Me Snake: A Second Amendment Statement
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-2-1-305bf246878c4cc7b5a6a935aa82b821.jpg)
He also has the “Don’t Tread on Me” snake from the Gadsden flag inked on the same arm, which Malone says is a reference to the Second Amendment.
3.1.12. Snake Wrapped Around Gun: Another Firearm Reference
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(729×0:731×2)/post-malone-tattoos-3-5a555e705fcf4779abb29befc8440c98.jpg)
Snakes, like skulls, are a common motif in Malone’s body art. One of his first arm tattoos was a snake wrapped around a gun, another reference to Malone’s fascination with firearms.
3.1.13. Nirvana and Kurt Cobain Tattoos: Musical Heroes
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-25-6e9a6708e4f445c9874908f10cee941b.jpg)
Malone is a huge Nirvana and Kurt Cobain fan. He’s covered Nirvana songs and has a few tributes to Cobain and the band on his body, including “Nevermind” and “Whatever” on his palms, a portrait of Cobain on one arm, and the “Stay Away” script.
3.1.14. Saint with a Skeleton: A Unique Design
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(724×0:726×2)/post-malone-tattoos-2-2-ea874536c15b423a82733bbea798e368.jpg)
Malone has a saint lifting up his robe to reveal a skeleton drawn on the top of his left hand and up his arm.
3.2. Hand Tattoos: Intricate Details
Like the rest of his body, the rapper’s hands are covered in tattoos.
3.2.1. John F. Kennedy: An Admired Figure
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-24-880f4fd510774b8193ac862a5cadfe6d.jpg)
A portrait of the late president appears on one hand. Malone got the tattoo in 2016 and has said he admires JFK.
3.2.2. Knuckle Tattoos: A Collection of Heroes
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-4-6b009d240d704632b9483d30bceb8022.jpg)
The words “REST EASY” are spelled out on Malone’s knuckles, and he also has portraits of some of his favorite musical inspirations and a thick length of barbed wire incorporated into the design.
3.2.3. Grizzly Bear: A Roaring Design
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-5-0e2c6fb95ff14322b8f610761b88ebff.jpg)
A roaring grizzly bear decorates the top of Malone’s right hand, just above the barbed wire on his knuckles.
3.2.4. Cartier Love Bangle Loop: A Painful Addition
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-3-bed0b1e184214ea1b113c64ed3961a31.jpg)
Malone has a small Cartier Love bangle loop tattooed on his left index finger, an addition he says was one of the most painful.
3.3. Chest and Torso Tattoos: A Canvas of Expression
Malone has slowly added more ink to his chest and torso over the years.
3.3.1. Eyeball Dice, Swords, and Zombie Jesus: A Unique Combination
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-6-b45a1ae445f94f4683950a952ec62022.jpg)
Malone explained the origins of his large Jesus tattoo in a video for GQ, saying, “Jesus is very handsome so I figured, how can we make him super metal? So we made him Easter Jesus.”
3.3.2. Dallas Cowboys Football Helmet and Four-Horned Figure: Texas Pride
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-7-038b8c3280134de78e5b23593d536825.jpg)
Another ode to his Texas upbringing, Malone has a Dallas Cowboys football helmet emblazoned on his left clavicle.
3.3.3. Cow Skull and Eagles: Striking Imagery
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/post-malone-tattoos-8-10e1facb441347b0bd68a37284fa5b1e.jpg)
Malone has a cow skull inked on his throat and upper chest. Next to the skull are two bald eagles in flight.
3.3.4. Master Shake: An Animated Choice
