Are tattoos safe?
Yes, as long as you go to a reputable artist that is following all recommended safety precautions.
Does it hurt?
Pain is very subjective. Everyone has a different tolerances to pain, though – it does hurt. Just not that much. Some have compared it to a “hot scratching feeling”. But, people would not be returning again and again for tattoo after tattoo if it hurt that bad! Most of us are not into pain, but the beauty of the tattoo and the pride associated with wearing it far outweighs a little discomfort.
What should I get and where?
This is all a matter of personal preference. You can get whatever you want, and whatever you artist is willing to do. You can choose a picture off the wall, or you can have them create a custom piece. Your only limit is your imagination. Keep in mind what you do for work and the type of social circles you are in. You might want to consider placing your tattoo where it can be easily covered up with normal clothing.
How do I know if this is the right artist for me?
Always ask to see examples of the artist’s finished work. Photos should be openly available (see our portfolio here). It will definitely help you decide if you might want to be trying to find the exit door. Really look at the designs up close. Scrutinize the line work. Are the lines straight and smooth? Do the circles look like circles? What about colouring? Are the colours blended well to create even forms of shading, dimension, and depth? All these are things to consider.
What is the best time of the year to get a tattoo?
Although you can get a tattoo any time of the year, your skin gets a lot more abuse during the summer with swimming, tanning and just being exposed to the elements more.
Is it OK to get a tattoo if I’m sick?
Getting a tattoo when your immune system isn’t at 100% isn’t a good idea. You’re will need your strength and your white blood cells to heal your tattoo, something your body won’t be able to do if it’s already doing battle against virus and bacteria. Not to mention the fact that it’s very inconsiderate to bring your illness into the tattoo studio and risk passing the germs onto others, particularly your artist. If you have an appointment, call and reschedule for when you’re feeling well again.
Is it OK to lay out in the sun or go to the tanning bed when you have tattoos?
It’s no secret that tanning isn’t really good for your skin anyway, but it’s even harder on your tattoos. Ultraviolet rays, while adding a nice bronze tone to your skin, drain the life of a tattoo. The more you tan, the more the ink fades and slowly goes from brilliant to boring.
Does that mean your tanning days are over? Well, I guess that depends on you much you love your tattoos and want them to stay bright and looking their best. I can certainly empathize with anyone that also loves the sun and just can’t stay away. If you absolutely must go soak up some rays, at least be sensible and use sun block. Find the highest SPF level you can and re-apply often if you’re going to spend a lot of time outside. If you just can’t accept having pasty white skin and your goal it to go out and get some colour, make sure you at least protect your tattoos with as much sunscreen as possible.
I just got a new tattoo on my body – can I shave?
If you’ve got a new tattoo, especially if you are a woman, the question is going to come up as to when it’s safe to shave again. When you get a tattoo, the area will be completely shaved before ink is applied, so at least you’re starting off with smooth skin. After a couple days of stubble and bristly skin, the urge to shave can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, at this point, shaving is about as brutal on your tattoo as a weedwacker. The wound is still fresh, and especially if you have any scabbing or raised areas, you run the risk of damaging your artwork by running a razor across it. Chemical hair removers are just as bad if not worse – you never want to put anything like that on a fresh tattoo. You can shave the area around the tattoo, but be sure any and all creams, gels and/or hair follicles are cleaned away from the tattoo immediately afterwards, and then apply your ointment or lotion as directed by your artist.
So, when is it safe to shave again?
Your tattoo will go through several different stages, one of the last being the peeling stage. Once the peeling has finished, your skin will start to regenerate and produce a new protective layer over your tattoo. Once this new layer has appeared, it is usually safe to shave again. Depending on your tattoo and your own body’s ability to heal, this can take anywhere from 5-10 days in most cases. Once a tattoo is completely healed, you can shave just like normal without worry.