Frequently Asked Question
(FAQ)
Yes, but the level of pain varies depending on the placement, size, and your personal tolerance. Areas with more bone or thinner skin (ribs, spine, feet) usually hurt more, while fleshier areas (upper arm, thigh) hurt less. Most people describe the feeling as a scratching or burning sensation, and many say it’s manageable.
Pricing depends on several factors:
– Size
– Detail/complexity
– Placement
– Artist experience
– Studio location
Our minimum is $100, our studio rate is $200/hour. We also charge an artwork fee, for large detailed custom designs. Custom pieces or large tattoos can cost hundreds to thousands.
Surface healing usually takes 2–3 weeks, but full healing under the skin can take 4–6 weeks. During that time you should follow proper aftercare to prevent infection and fading.
Typical aftercare includes:
1. Keep the bandage on for 24 hours.
2. After the 24 hour period, wash gently with unscented soap. I prefer you use pears soap. Let your tattoo dry naturally (no towel drying)
3. Apply a thin layer of recommended ointment or moisturizer. I recommend polysporin cream if you are not allergic to penicillin or sulpha drugs. This can be done 3 times per day, VERY VERY small amount and rub it into the skin
4. Avoid swimming, sun exposure for 6 weeks, and tight clothing during the healing process.
5. Don’t pick or scratch scabs.
Following aftercare instructions helps ensure good healing and color retention.
Yes, but we prefer to adapt or redraw it so it works better as a tattoo. A good artist will adjust line thickness, shading, and size to ensure the tattoo ages well and is most visually appealing
Yes, most tattoos can be lightened or removed using Laser Tattoo Removal, but it usually takes multiple sessions and can be expensive. Some colors (like green or yellow) are harder to remove. Most people will tell you that it hurts way more to remove it, than to put it in the skin, so be wise about your choices of artwork and artist.
I usually recommend:
– Eat a good meal
– Stay hydrated
– Get good sleep
– Avoid alcohol or blood thinners
– Wear comfortable clothing that exposes the tattoo area and perhaps bring a clean blanket or sheet to cover your other bits, that you don’t want to show off during your tattoo.
This helps reduce dizziness and improves your experience.
Look for:
– A portfolio that shows the artists creative versatility and technical ability as well as artistic expression and understanding of composition balance based on body location.
Make sure you feel comfortable with your tattoo artists…
– Good reviews and reputation can help, but remember there are lots of trolls out there who enjoy badmouthing their competition. Don’t believe everything you read. Take the time to meet with your artist, do a consultation in person, and get a feeling for if the artist is right for you.
– A clean, professional studio. There are basic requirements implemented by most state and provincial health boards, however make sure you are satisfied with their protocols, and ask for explanations on how they protect themselves and you from potential hazards. If the artist in reluctant to share that with you…. LEAVE… go find a better artists.
– An artist who communicates well about your idea. During that consultation, or if. You are in a walk in shop, make sure the artist understands what you are looking for. The big
eraser to remove your tattoo, if you are not happy, is painful and expensive. Better to be clear about what you want than disappointed with what you end up with.
Choosing an artist experienced in your desired style is very important.
Yes. All tattoos fade gradually due to:
– Sun exposure
– Skin aging
– Poor aftercare
Using sunscreen and moisturizing your skin helps maintain tattoo quality. Many people get touch-ups after several years.
Tattoos are generally safe when done by a licensed professional using sterile equipment. Risks mainly occur when:
– Needles or ink are contaminated
– Aftercare isn’t followed
– The studio has poor hygiene practices
Always choose a reputable studio that follows strict sanitation standards.