Frequently Asked Questions tattoo prices tattoo shop near me

You just got a new tattoo and are thrilled with the way it looks, so what is the best way to seal the deal? How do you keep looking like day 1? It all comes down to the aftercare. 

Every artist has their own instructions when it comes to tattoo healing, some prefer tattoo bandages while others swear by natural dry healing. The universally agreed upon answer is simple- faster healing results in a fresher ink. Here are some ideas how to get the best healing results from someone 6 years in the industry.

1. Turn up the heat during your shower:

Contrary to popular belief, hot showers DO NOT impede on the healing process of your tattoo. Hot showers invigorate blood flow in your body and allow blood cells, especially platelet and white blood cells to start repairing the damaged skin. Bath should be avoided as it can draw out ink from the open wound which could make the tattoo heal light. In essence, creating better blood flow jump-starts your healing process.

2. Clean gently: 

In the shower, wash the tattoo gently with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Your brand new tattoo is an open wound at this point and can be especially sensitive to fragrances from scented soaps. Organic and mild soaps are even better as the chances of it irritating your skin is reduced. I recommend a brand called PurSan but any gentle cleanser would work. Avoid using a washcloth or anything abrasive.

3. Pat to dry:

After cleaning, pat the tattoo dry with a clean, soft paper towel. Do not rub it. If using a bath towel, make sure to use a fresh, clean one. Do not reuse bath towels when drying your tattoo.

4. Apply ointment: 

Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizing ointment, like a specific tattoo aftercare product or a gentle lotion recommended by your artist. I like Tattoo goo, it is a balm made from natural oils that allows the exchange of oxygen. Avoid petroleum-based jellies like Vaseline or other scented lotion and cream. Remember that your fresh tattoo is still an open wound, scented products will certainly make it sting, while Vaseline can suffocate the healing process. This should be done a few times a day after cleaning to keep the tattoo moisturized without suffocating it.

5. Avoid the three S’s: 

Swimming, Sun, and Sweating. Keep the tattoo out of direct streams of water and avoid soaking it. That means no swimming or long baths for the first 2 weeks. Avoid direct sunlight as it will impede on your tattoo’s healing process. You will notice your unhealed tattoo hurts under direct sunlight as your skin's natural defenses are damaged after the tattooing process. 

Sunscreens are not a good idea during this stage as the wound is still open (you can apply sunscreen after 1 week), your only option would be to cover up with a clean, and long sleeve clothing. Once healed, use sunscreen to protect the tattoo to maintain its color and detail.

Avoid sweating with an unhealed tattoo. Moisture from sweat is a breeding ground for bacteria which will slow down the healing process. Avoid the gym too as weightlifting can expand your skin and the unhealed tattoo. You may be able to crack your stage during this stage and have the finished and healed tattoo look light.

6. Avoid picking or scratching:

As the tattoo heals, it will itch and possibly peel. It’s important not to scratch or pick at it to avoid scarring and infection. If the itching is unbearable, I have heard colleagues say to slap the tattoo. I hope this tip helps you as it did for me haha.

7. Avoid tattoo bandages: 

Transparent second skins or other tattoo bandages can be great for small line work tattoos, but when it comes to larger tattoos, these bandages keep your blood and plasma trapped on the surface of your skin. Long durations of this can fester bacterial growth under the tattoo bandage. I have personally come across 1 instance where my colleagues have used a tattoo bandage, and with unclear instructions, the client thought to leave the bandage on for 5 days. By day 3, the client reported his skin had become very itchy and came into the studio to seek advice. Antibiotics had to be used to stop the infection. As children, we all got scrapes and scratches, when have we covered them up each time? and when do they ever get infected? The truth is, tattoo infections are rare if you follow common sense.

8. Monitor for signs of infection:

Watch for excessive redness, swelling, pain, or any pus-like discharge. If any of these symptoms occur, it’s important to contact a healthcare professional.

9. Follow specific advice: 

Your tattoo artist might give you specific advice tailored to their style of tattooing or your skin type. Be sure to follow their instructions closely.

Healing times can vary depending on the size and location of the tattoo, but generally, it takes about 2–3 weeks, depending on age, for the outer layer to heal.

Brainstorming for the perfect tattoo idea is a creative journey that involves deep reflection on personal values, interests, and aesthetics. Start by identifying a theme that resonates with your personal story or passions, which can lend a coherent narrative to your design. Through this thoughtful process, you can ensure that your tattoo not only captivates visually but also holds deep personal significance, making it a true reflection of your unique identity. Here are the best ways to do it!

1. Define the Theme:

Think about what’s important to you or what resonates with your life experiences. Common themes might include nature, spiritual symbols, memorials, cultural heritage, or abstract art. Consider what connects deeply with you—this could be a passion, life journey, or a personal narrative. For example, if you love the ocean, you might want a nautical theme. Themes help in creating a cohesive sleeve rather than a collection of unrelated tattoos.

2. Gather Inspiration:

Use every resource available. Tattoo magazines, art galleries, and digital platforms like Instagram or Pinterest can offer a wealth of visual ideas. Even everyday objects and environments can spark creativity. Collecting varied inspirations can help you convey what styles and subjects resonate with you the most to your artist.

3. Use Symbolism:

Symbols can add layers of meaning to your tattoo. For instance, a lion might symbolize courage, while cherry blossoms could represent the transient nature of life. Decide if you want each tattoo element to symbolize something specific or if you prefer a more aesthetic-focused design. As an artist, many times we cannot guess what symbolism is important and appealing to you. It is important to brainstorm these ideas on your own and bring it up to your artist.

4. Choose a Style:

Different styles can dramatically change the feel of a tattoo. Realism tattoos are detailed, aesthetic, and lifelike, traditional styles feature bold lines and bright colors, and watercolor tattoos offer a soft, blending effect. While asian traditional tattoos look graphic, bold and striking. Your choice should align with the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for. For a classical and timeless look, black and gray realism would be your best bet, we can definitely help you with that!

5. Think About Placement and Flow:

The design should follow the natural curves and muscles of your arm to create an organic flow. This consideration ensures that the tattoo looks integrated and intentional rather than a random collection of images. This step is crucial for turning a good tattoo great. Every artist has their own approaches and secrets to making a tattoo flow and it is in your best interest to bring it up to them.

6. Consult with a Tattoo Artist:

A professional tattoo artist can offer invaluable advice on the feasibility of your ideas, sizing, color, and placement. They can help refine your designs to better suit the anatomy of your arm and ensure the tattoo ages well. During the consultation, make sure you bring a reference folder of pictures you like, as well as knowing what kind of style and finish you like. It’s okay if you don’t have the complete picture in your head, but a small guidance can help point your artist in the right direction.

7. Be Open to Evolution:

During consultations, your artist might suggest changes to improve the design or adapt it to better suit tattooing techniques. Being flexible and open minded can often lead to a more refined and effective tattoo design that you had never thought would be possible.

8. Take Your Time:

Don’t rush the process. Tattoos are a large, visible, and permanent addition to your body. Spend ample time in the planning phase, and make sure you are completely satisfied with the design before proceeding. If that means sleeping on it, take it to the bedroom, you can always come back to your artist when you are certain to make the commitment.

There are many factors that influence the cost of a high-quality tattoo. In this industry, the skill gap is endless, while the novelty and autograph factor runs rampant. Meaning that some of the best professional artists in the country can actually charge much less than similarly skilled celebrity tattoo artists who have made it on TV shows etc. People will pay what they are willing to pay, but here is a good guideline to what makes a tattoo priced the way it is.

1. Superior Skill and Experience:

These artists have honed their craft over many years, ensuring that the detail, shading, and overall quality of your tattoo will be exceptional. Higher prices often reflect the artist’s consistency in quality and client satisfaction over time. Beginner artists often charge $150/hr while very experienced artists can charge $300/hr or more! When a half sleeve can take 10–15 hours to finish, the price tag reflects the total amount of hours used to finish the tattoo.

2. Design Complexity, Location and Size:

The larger and more detailed the tattoo, the more time it will take, which directly impacts the cost. For example, a full sleeve or a detailed back piece that requires complex shading techniques, involves intricate details, or a variety of colors can take 30 or more hours to complete, spread over several sessions. The artist must also consider the placement and flow of the design on the body, which requires skill and a lot of experience. These factors can drag out the amount of hours needed for a complete sleeve, and therefore upping the cost of the tattoo. Tattoos on certain body parts, like the ribs or hands, might cost more because these areas can be more challenging to tattoo.

3. Custom Artwork:

When an artist designs a tattoo specifically for a client, they invest time in understanding the client’s vision, preferences, and the significance of the tattoo. This includes custom designs that are tailored specifically to your preferences and body anatomy, which not only ensures your tattoo is unique but also that it harmonizes with your body- enhancing its aesthetic appeal and personal significance. In today’s age, A.I. can be implemented into the design process which helps an artist to achieve a tattoo design quickly, but a lot of time will still be spent on custom tailoring the tattoo to make it work for the client’s particular arm (for instance).

4. Quality, Safety and Longevity:

Top-tier artists use high-quality inks and state-of-the-art equipment, which can reduce the risk of allergic reactions and infections. Moreover, reputable studios maintain stringent hygiene standards and a bigger overhead, ensuring a safe, accessible and clean environment. High-quality inks and expert application can prevent the tattoo from fading quickly, saving you money and additional sessions for touch-ups in the long run. Paying more for a skilled artist’s work ensures that you are left with a piece you will treasure for a lifetime. The satisfaction of having a beautifully crafted tattoo that resonates with your personal story or aesthetics is invaluable.

Remember, a tattoo is not just a decoration but an investment in yourself. Choosing to pay more for a skilled, experienced artist can ensure that this permanent addition to your body is something you’ll be proud of for years to come. However, it’s important to budget accordingly and choose an artist whose style and skill match the vision you have for your tattoo, ensuring that the investment is worth the permanent nature of the artwork on your body.