Research Note: I’m featuring Mike Mavretic because he represents the kind of professional tattoo artist we love to spotlight—committed to quality work and thoughtful about the products he uses. This spotlight is based on publicly available information about Skin Deep Tattoo and Mike’s professional partnership with Tattoo Luv, a natural tattoo care brand made by my family’s business, Momma Bears Creations.
Why This Artist Spotlight Matters
When you’re researching tattoo artists in Central Pennsylvania, you want to know you’re working with someone who takes their craft seriously. Mike Mavretic at Skin Deep Tattoo LLC in Lebanon, PA, is one of those artists who’s built his reputation on consistent quality and professionalism.
I’m spotlighting Mike not just because he’s a talented artist, but because he exemplifies what I look for when researching tattoo professionals: attention to detail, commitment to quality, and thoughtfulness about every aspect of the tattooing process—including the products used during sessions.
About Skin Deep Tattoo
Location: 254 S. 12th Street, Lebanon, PA 17042 Phone: (717) 689-2250 Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (closed Sunday-Monday)
Skin Deep Tattoo describes itself as “Central PA’s Premier Tattoo Destination” and is home to multiple award-winning artists. The studio offers custom tattoo work across traditional and modern styles, as well as professional body piercing.
Book with Mike: Online Booking System Instagram: @mikemavretic Studio Instagram: @skindeeptattoollc Studio Facebook: facebook.com/skindeeptattoollc
What Makes Mike Stand Out
Award-Winning Tattoo Artist
Mike’s talent has been recognized at multiple tattoo conventions throughout 2024 and 2025:
2025 Convention Awards:
- Central PA Tattoo Expo - 1st Place, Large Color-Healed
- Central PA Tattoo Expo - 1st Place, Small Color
- Keystone State Tattoo Expo - 2nd Place, Color of the Day
- Keystone State Tattoo Expo - 3rd Place, GOAT (Greatest of All Time) of the Show
2024 Convention Awards:
- Central PA’s Tattoo and Horror Expo - 1st Place, Best Cover Up
- Central PA’s Horror and Tattoo Expo - 1st Place (Friday), Best Horror Piece (judges noted the exceptional overall flow and design)
These competition wins demonstrate Mike’s versatility across different tattoo styles—from color work to cover-ups to horror pieces—and his consistent quality that judges recognize at professional tattoo conventions.
Commitment to Quality Products
Mike is the first sponsored artist in the Tattoo Luv Professional Artist Program, which tells me he’s thoughtful about the products he uses during tattooing sessions.
Here’s what Mike shared about why he partnered with Tattoo Luv:
“When consulting with this company… they were very attentive to my needs and my customers needs. They listened and formed together what I call ’the luv sauce’. This stuff doesn’t wipe away stencils, clog up tubes, natural… the very first piece I tattooed using this stuff; both the client and I noticed huge difference… I’m hooked…”
— Mike Mavretic, Skin Deep Tattoo LLC
Why Product Choice Matters
For anyone researching tattoo artists, it’s worth paying attention to the products an artist uses. Here’s why Mike’s choice to use natural tattoo glide matters:
Stencil Safety: Natural glide that won’t wipe away stencil transfers means more accurate tattoo placement and better results.
Tube Performance: Products that don’t clog tubes mean smoother sessions and consistent needle performance throughout your tattoo.
Client Experience: When your artist uses the same natural product during the session that you’ll use for aftercare, it creates consistency in the healing process.
Transparency: Artists who choose products with fully disclosed natural ingredients demonstrate commitment to client safety and transparency.
The Tattoo Luv Connection
Mike’s partnership with Tattoo Luv represents something I value when researching artists: professionals who think critically about every aspect of their practice.
What is Tattoo Luv?
Tattoo Luv is a professional tattoo glide and aftercare balm made by Momma Bears Creations in Enola, PA (full disclosure: this is my family’s business). The product was developed in consultation with working tattoo artists like Mike to address specific needs:
- 100% natural ingredients (no petroleum, parabens, or synthetic fragrances)
- Stencil-safe formula that won’t interfere with transfers
- Tube-friendly formulation that doesn’t create buildup or clog
- Dual-purpose use during tattooing and for aftercare
Key Ingredients: Refined shea butter, jojoba oil, raw cocoa butter, babassu oil, vitamin E, hemp seed oil, tea tree oil, sweet orange essential oil, bergamot essential oil, and helichrysum essential oil.
What to Consider When Choosing a Tattoo Artist
Based on my research into professional tattoo artists like Mike, here are factors worth considering:
Professional Standards
- Licensed and certified (check state requirements)
- Clean, professional studio environment
- Autoclave sterilization for equipment
- Single-use needles and proper disposal
- Bloodborne pathogen training
Portfolio & Communication
- Portfolio that demonstrates consistent quality
- Clear communication about design process
- Realistic about what’s achievable
- Transparent about pricing and session time
- Consultation available before committing
Product Transparency
- Willing to discuss products used during sessions
- Clear aftercare instructions
- Answers questions about ingredients if asked
- Uses professional-grade equipment and supplies
Studio Culture
- Respectful, inclusive environment
- Professional booking process
- Clear studio policies
- Multiple artists with different specialties
Supporting Central PA Tattoo Artists
Mike and Skin Deep Tattoo are part of the vibrant Central Pennsylvania tattoo community. If you’re researching artists in the Lebanon, Harrisburg, Carlisle, or Lancaster areas, here’s what I recommend:
Research Multiple Artists:
- Check portfolios on Instagram
- Read reviews and testimonials
- Look for consistency in their work
- Verify licensing and certifications
Book Consultations:
- Most professional artists offer consultations
- Discuss your design ideas
- Ask about their process
- Get clear pricing and timeline estimates
Trust Your Gut:
- You should feel comfortable with your artist
- Communication should be clear and professional
- The studio environment should feel clean and welcoming
- Don’t rush the decision—this is permanent art
Connect with Mike Mavretic
If you’re interested in working with Mike or learning more about Skin Deep Tattoo:
Book an Appointment: Online Booking View Mike’s Work: @mikemavretic on Instagram Studio Info: www.skindeeptattooparlor.com Call the Studio: (717) 689-2250
Studio Location: Skin Deep Tattoo LLC 254 S. 12th Street Lebanon, PA 17042
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Final Thoughts
Highlighting artists like Mike Mavretic helps connect tattoo enthusiasts with quality professionals in our community. Whether you’re planning your first tattoo or adding to your collection, choosing an artist who demonstrates professionalism, quality work, and thoughtfulness about their craft matters.
What do you look for when choosing a tattoo artist? Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below—let’s celebrate the talented artists in our community!
Resources & Links
Artist & Studio:
Tattoo Care Information:
Tattoo Safety Resources:
- Association of Professional Piercers (APP) - Industry safety standards
- Pennsylvania Department of Health - Tattoo Facility Licensing
InkedWith is written by tattoo enthusiasts for tattoo enthusiasts. We celebrate artists who demonstrate professionalism, quality work, and commitment to their craft. This spotlight features Mike Mavretic’s partnership with Tattoo Luv, a product line made by Momma Bears Creations (disclosure: family business). All testimonials used with permission.