Q: How badly does it hurt? or Does it hurt?
A: Tattoos are applied with groups of tiny needles that poke into the skin around 20 times a second, usually no deeper than around 1/8 to 1/4 inch. This is not deep enough to cause serious pain, but it is deep enough to cause discomfort. Most people liken it to a continuous kitten scratch or an annoying burn. The sensation is different for each person. it depends on your own personal pain tolerance. In general, the outline tends to be more tender, and after a while your endorphins (the body's natural painkillers) kick in and you may even feel a mild sense of euphoria. Many people feel the need to get ink regularly for both this sensation, and the overall joy of having a new tattoo.
Q: Where should I get it?
A: Where you want it. Never let pain be a factor of choice, the pain is temporary, and as we have stated, relative. The tattoo is permanent. Don't regret your choice; get what you want where you want it.
Q: Is it safe?
A: If you go to a professional shop that follows state code guidelines, such as Tattoo York's Forever *ahem* then the answer is yes. Your needles are single use and disposed of after each tattoo. Inks are put into disposable cups and discarded after use. Gloves are worn throughout the procedure. All contact surfaces have been wiped down with germicidal wipes and/or sprays, and tubes tips and grips are sterilized in an autoclave prior to use.
Q: Why do professional tattoos cost so much? I know someone who'll do it for $20, or a sixpack of beer.
A: Ok, so I'm exaggerating a bit, but not much. We really have heard this question. The answer is simple. You get what you pay for. If you don't care about safety, sterilization, having a clean, sober, trained artist, then you're right. There is no reason you should pay so much. Good luck and Godspeed. On the other hand, if you realize that a tattoo becomes a part of who you are and how the world sees you, and if you want it done safely and well, then the choice is simple. It's worth the extra money to get a work of art you can be proud of.
Q: Ok, so I had my cousin do this eagle on my arm because he's a really good artist, but it didn't turn out. It looks like a dead chicken drawn with a crayon. What can I do?
A: Once again, this is another exaggeration, but we do get similar questions. Tattoo removal is not available at a tattoo studio. Tattoos are still very permanent and need to be well thought out. If you no longer want a tattoo at all, you need to contact a dermatologist. They can inform you of your options. If you just want to fix it you may be looking for a touch-up or a cover-up. Read the following to see what would best suit your purposes:
1. First of all do you hate the design? If not, then you might best be served by getting a touch up. This would be where an artist re-does the same design. Refining the lines, adding more detail, and recoloring the design, may solve your problems.
2. If you hate the design, or it is beyond repair, then you will need to be looking for a cover up. There is a limit to what is and isn't possible, so you will need to work with an artist to find the best solution for you.
Q: My friend says the best way to take care of a tattoo is with Preparation H or Bag
Balm. Is this true?
A: Every shop gives different directions on the care of your tattoos. Ours is tried and true. A general rule of thumb is to follow the directions given to you by shop where you recieved your tattoo. Be careful when using salves or ointments. Using too much can actually harm your tattoo. A thick layer can block air from your tattoo. Air promotes healing, and the quicker your tattoo heals, the less chance of losing any of your color.
Q: What will happen to my tattoo if I gain/lose weight?
A: A tattoo is pigment in your skin. Therefore, it will grow as you grow and shrink as you shrink. Think of a design on a rubber balloon, the design gets denser and smaller, or larger and less defined. A stretchmark, on the other hand, will ruin a tattoo 100% of the time. This is something to keep in mind if you plan on having children, the hip might not be the best placement, and gents, if you work out and get stretchmarks on your arms, you might want to re-think that armband.
Q: Do you guarantee your tattoos?
A. Yes, and no. We do guarantee that your tattoo will have solid color and clear lines. If after the healing period, if you notice any light areas or missing lines, you may stop in or call for a free touch-up. We cannot guarantee that your tattoo will stay that bright forever. That is up to you. Keep in mind that tattoos do age. Once a tattoo is healed, you are actually viewing your tattoo through the top layer of your skin. This may result in your tattoo looking duller, especially if you have darker skin. Usually, a layer of lotion will instantly brighten your tattoo. Also be mindful of UV rays. If you are in the sun a lot, use sunscreen to prolong the life of your tattoo. If you tan, then use a chapstick with SPF 15 or higher to more precisely cover your tattoo without streaking your tan. With proper care, tattoos will stay bright and vibrant for a lifetime.
