Frequent Tattoo Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about the tattoo process, booking, and aftercare.
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What should I do before getting a tattoo?
- Get a good night’s sleep.
- Eat a healthy meal to stabilize your blood sugar.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs for at least 24 hours prior.
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed.
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How long will my tattoo take?
The length of a tattoo session depends on the size, detail, and location of the tattoo. On average, my pieces take 6-8 hours and/ or require multiple sessions.
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Can I take painkillers before my tattoo appointment?
It’s best to avoid painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen before a tattoo, as they thin the blood and can cause more bleeding.
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Is it normal for my tattoo to bleed or ooze?
Yes, it’s normal for a fresh tattoo to ooze a small amount of blood, plasma, and ink during the first 24 hours. Be sure to follow aftercare instructions, keep the area clean, and apply the recommended ointment to prevent infection.
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How do I know if my tattoo is infected?
Signs of infection include excessive redness, swelling, pus, a foul odor, or severe pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional immediately.
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Can I shower after getting a tattoo?
Yes, but avoid soaking the tattoo in water. Take short showers and gently clean the tattoo with mild, unscented soap. Avoid hot tubs, swimming pools, and baths for at least 2 weeks until the tattoo fully heals.
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Can I exercise after getting a tattoo?
It’s best to avoid intense exercise that might stretch or put pressure on the area of your new tattoo for at least a week. Sweat can also irritate the healing skin, and activities like swimming or contact sports should be avoided until the tattoo fully heals.
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Will my tattoo fade over time?
Yes, all tattoos fade to some extent over time due to skin regeneration and sun exposure. To slow down fading, apply sunscreen to your tattoo once it’s healed, and consider touch-ups as needed.
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What should I expect during the healing process?
Over the first few days, your tattoo may feel tender, appear red, and scab. It will peel and itch as it heals, but avoid scratching it. The healing process takes 2 weeks, depending on the size and placement.
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How old do I need to be to get a tattoo?
The legal age for getting a tattoo varies by country and region, but in most places, you must be 18 years old.
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Can I get a tattoo if I have allergies or sensitive skin?
If you have allergies or sensitive skin, it’s important to discuss this with your artist. They may perform a patch test to ensure you don’t have a reaction to the inks or equipment. There are also hypoallergenic and vegan ink options available.
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How much should I tip my tattoo artist?
While tipping is not mandatory, it’s considered good practice to tip your tattoo artist, especially if you’re happy with their work. A tip of 15-25% of the total cost is common, depending on the quality of service and your satisfaction.
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How do I know if I’m ready for a tattoo?
You’re ready for a tattoo if you’ve carefully considered the design, placement, and permanence of the tattoo, researched reputable artists, and are prepared for the healing and aftercare process. Take your time—there’s no rush to get a tattoo, and it’s important to be confident in your decision.
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Are deposits required in order to book?
Yes, a 50% deposit for each session booked is required. The deposit goes toward the cost of the session. All deposits are non-refundable
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How many sessions do sleeves take?
Please keep in mind that these are estimates and this is subject to change. There is no way to predict with 100% certainty the amount of sessions a tattoo can take due to a variety of factors. Below are some general estimates:
- Full arm: about 5-7 sessions
- Upper/lower half arm: about 2-3 sessions
- Full leg sleeves: about 8-10 sessions
- Upper half leg sleeves: about 4-5 sessions
- Lower half leg sleeves: about 3-4 sessions
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What is the consultation process like?
After you submit your inquiry, an email will be sent to you to initiate a consultation and discuss your tattoo project.
Once you are ready to schedule and agree on a date, a link will be sent to you to have a creative call scheduled. Our call will take place either by Face-time or Zoom. In this call, we'll have the opportunity to virtually meet, work out the details of your tattoo, go over expectations, and collaborate with your ideas. This is the time to convey any stories or meaning you have in receiving this tattoo, and really have a say on what you like, don’t like, must-haves, what you’re open to and what you’re not.
After Care
A new tattoo is typically considered fully healed within two weeks, though timing varies depending on different factors including size, location of the tattoo, immune system, and environment. It is your responsibility to take care of your tattoo during this process. Please review and follow through with the aftercare instructions below.
1. If your tattoo has been covered, please ensure it has been removed no later than 1 hour after your session. Do not rewrap your tattoo. Using the anti-bacterial Soap, gently clean your tattoo once per day for two weeks. Avoid any harsh washing/scrubbing or excessive exfoliation of the tattooed area.
2. Apply Ointment three times per day for two weeks. Ensure that the aftercare application is a thin layer, as excessive ointment can cause moisture rash. Aftercare ointment should be used as a moisturizer, not a protective barrier.
3. Cold and warm showers are acceptable, however keep them short. Do not soak the tattooed area in water (i.e bath, swimming pool, sauna). For optimal results do not exercise during the two week healing period.
4. Keep your tattoo clean at all times, and avoid contact with potential contaminants. This includes any surfaces that may carry bacteria such as floors, walls, public spaces, gyms, etc.
5. During the healing your skin may feel sore, itchy, and will begin to peel/shed dead skin. Avoid touching, picking, or scratching your tattoo. Covering your tattoo with clean dry clothing is acceptable. Loose fitting clothing is preferred.
6. During the healing process your tattoo will lighten up and vibrancy may be reduced. This is normal and is caused by the resurfacing of new skin and the settling of pigment.
7. Once your tattoo has completely healed it is recommended to moisturize daily and minimize sun exposure for optimal longevity.
8. If you have any questions or concerns during the healing process please contact me immediately.