Frequently Asked Questions
How do I Schedule an Appointment?
Can I bring my children to my appointment?
Absolutely not! Please find appropriate child care for your baby, toddler, and pre-teen, before coming to your scheduled appointment. Children under the age of 13 years old will most likely be a distraction to the other clients and the artists working in the studio.
What should I use to moisturize my new tattoo?
Salve/ Ointment: After removing your bandage, wrap, Tegaderm, second skin, sani-derm, etc. with clean hands, apply the Salve/ Ointment (H2Ocean® Aquatat®, Aquaphor®, Tattoo Goo®, Bag Balm®, or A & D as often as you want, but we suggest 3 times a day (morning, afternoon, and night) or as needed. Apply a small amount on the tattoo and gently massage in until the entire tattoo is covered. Dab off excess with a paper towel. Your tattoo should have satin/ semi-gloss look or sheen. Too much ointment can cause folliculitis (clogging of the pores/ red bumps/ swelling) and too little can cause for an undesirable slow and dry healing process (heavy scabbing). Do not use topical Neosporin, Triple antibiotics, or Polysporin type products, unless otherwise directed to do so by your artist.
How do I clean my new tattoo?
Cleanse: using anti-bacterial soap can be and should be used as much as possible during the critical healing days of the tattoo (24 to 72 hours). Anti-bacterial soap shall be rinsed away from the tattoo with luke-warm water after every application. NO SOAKING OR SWIMMING! Be aware of where you are, what you touch and whom or what touches your tattoo. Keep in mind that a fresh tattoo is a surface wound, and infections can be obtained from most any person or surface.
What can I wear after getting my new tattoo?
Wear something old, but clean to bed the first couple of nights. Most tattoos will “ooze” and seep clear plasma and excess ink for the first day and night. This is normal but can stain sheets and clothes. If your tattoo sticks to your clotting or clean sheets, use some warm water to loosen the dried plasma. Do not just pull the dry item off of your tattoo, because you may damage the tattoo and your skin and bleeding can occur causing the tattoo to not heal properly.
Can I use lotion on my tattoo?
Lotion: After 1 to 2 weeks, switch from the Salve/ Ointment to a Lotion, the recommended fragrance-free lotions would be like a Lubriderm® or Eucerine® for moderate to extra dry skin containing aloe vera. You will know when to start using lotion when the tattoo starts the beginning stages of peeling. USE THE LOTION INDEFINITELY, and always use sunblock to protect your tattoo from direct sunlight, UV rays can damage your tattoo and your skin.
What if my skin swells or a bruise has formed near or around my new tattoo?
Swelling and bruising of the area around the tattoo are common. Some people bruise easily, some do not. In addition, certain areas are more prone to bruising and swelling. Lower extremity tattoos (ankles, feet, calves) are more prone to swelling if you have to be on your feet for prolonged periods. Ibuprofen and elevating the affected area can help. Tattoos on the feet and wrist are notoriously hard to heal. These areas also have a higher chance of becoming infected because of exposure to germs and bacteria due to doorknobs, keyboards, computer mice, dirty shoes, carpet, etc. It is EXTREMELY important to keep these areas clean and to NEVER touch your tattoo with dirty hands. When wearing shoes, make sure they are loose fitting and all socks should be smooth and “fuzz-free” on the inside.
Do you gurantee your art and tattoo work?
I guarantee my tattoo work...but only if you have followed my instructions as stated on this site or the instructions I provided you via text message. If touch-up becomes necessary, they are free within the first 6 months after the tattoo project was finished. More time can be given, but this is on a case by case basis. If you request a touch up after the 6th month the minimum amount charged is $50, however, the charging for touch-ups is at the artist's discretion because I will know if you followed the instructions as suggested.
I still have questions! So, what if...?
Disclaimer: These guidelines are based on a combination of vast professional experience, common sense, research, and extensive clinical practice. This is not to be considered a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If you suspect an infection, seek medical attention. Be aware that many doctors have not received specific training regarding tattooing. Your tattoo artist or studio manager may be able to refer you to a tattoo friendly doctor. If you have questions or concerns, Please do not hesitate to contact or call studio management or the tattoo artist as soon as possible. If you have what appears to be an allergic reaction to a particular aftercare product or lotion, stop use immediately and change products, but if the reaction persists, seek medical attention.
I think I'm allergic to the Aftercare product! What do I do?
