Are tattoos safe?
Yes if the artist and shop are reputable. Here are some good things to look for. (1) An autoclave (2) is the artist wearing gloves? (3) Is the artist vaccinated for hepatitis B? (4) Are the tattoo needles disposed of after each tattoo? (5) Are the needles and tubes sterilized before being used? (6) Are the inks, ointments and water taken from disposable containers and thrown away after each use?
How much will it cost?
Look for quality and be willing to pay for it! Our shop minimum is $100 and our general rate is $140 – $150/hour.
Does it hurt?
Yes, but it is bearable.
Can I use a numbing cream?
While we do not suggest the use of any creams to numb the area many of our customers have used “Emla” without complication.
How old do you have to be to get a tattoo?
It is our shop policy not to tattoo anyone under the age of 17. At 17 we will not tattoo you without the permission of your parents or legal guardian.
Can I get tattooed if I am pregnant?
No!
Can I get tattooed if I am breastfeeding?
No!
Can I get tattooed if I have a cold?
If you have a cold your body is already hard at work fighting the virus and it will have a more difficult time healing your tattoo. It is better to wait until you are healthy.
Can I tan after I get a tattoo?
You should wait at least 2 weeks before exposing your tattoo to the sun or tanning beds. It is a good idea to apply sunscreen to a tattoo before exposing it to the sun.
Can I go swimming?
You should wait at least 2 weeks before immersing your tattoo in water.
Are the needles re-sterilized after being used?
NO! Tattoo needles are thrown out after each use. Every customer receives a new needle for his or her tattoo.
Can I get tattooed if I have my period?
Yes, but keep in mind your body may be more sensitive to pain during the days right before and during your period.
What should I use to care for my tattoo?
We endorse several products at our shop; PurTect, PurTat, Ink Eeze.
Can I use Polysporin to heal a tattoo?
No, Polysporin contains zinc oxide, which is an infection-drawing agent that can actually draw color from your tattoo.
Can I take headache medication before a tattoo?
Sure, avoid anything that may thin the blood like aspirin.
Should I tip my tattoo artist? Tips are always appreciated
Can I get a large tattoo in just one sitting or should I split the work up into several sittings?
Depending on how long your tattoo will take and how long you are able to sit for you can do either. It is usually a good idea to discuss this with the tattoo artist beforehand.
Can I make changes to the flash in the store?
Absolutely, in fact we encourage that you do.
Can I bring in my own design?
Of course!
Can someone draw something for me?
Our tattoo artists love to do custom work and are happy to give free consultation appointments to customers who would like to discuss ideas.
Will the colours fade over time?
With proper care and less exposure to the sun a minimal amount of fade is too be expected.
How often should a tattoo need to be touched up?
This varies from person to person depending on how much abuse the tattoo receives. (Example: sun exposure)
Are tattoos easily infected?
Not with proper care.
Do many people have allergic reactions to the tattoo inks?
While we rarely see reactions to tattoo inks (sometimes with Red) there is more often a reaction to ointments (make sure you are using something suitable to your skin)
Is it normal for there to be an imprint of my tattoo on my bed sheets or on my clothing?
Yes, it is a normal part of the healing process for the body to push out some of the ink…this should only last for the first day or two.
Can you tattoo darker skin?
Yes but colours will be darker or less evident. Lighter colours may not take in dark skin.
Can you tattoo over old tattoos or scar tissue?
In most cases this is possible. It is a good idea to come in and talk to the tattoo artist first.
Can a tattoo be removed?
Yes, tattoos can laser removed. This is a service that we offer. This procedure is both expensive and painful so think long and hard about your choice of tattoo.