Getting a tattoo can be a deeply personal and transformative experience for many individuals. From commemorating significant life events to expressing one’s identity or beliefs, tattoos have evolved into much more than just ink on skin; they serve as powerful symbols of self-expression and artistry. However, embarking on the journey of getting a tattoo often comes with a flurry of questions and considerations. From pondering the pain level to deliberating over design choices and aftercare routines. Aesthetic Tattoo is here to help answer some of those questions you may have about tattooing!
IS it going to hurt?
There’s no sugar coating it; you will feel pain and discomfort when getting a tattoo. However, depending on the size, placement and the tattoo design, the pain may range from mild discomfort (think repetitive, small scratches) to quite intense (think of a bad sunburn being scratched over and over with a toothpick). Areas of the body with thinner skin (like your ribs) tend to be more painful than areas with more skin and muscle (like your thigh). Everyone’s pain tolerance is different though and someone that gets a small, fine line flower on their ribs may feel less pain than when they got a blackwork tattoo on their bicep. It really depends on the person, placement and style. On a side note: women, on average, handle getting a tattoo a lot better than men 😉
can i use numbing cream?
If desired, approved numbing cream can be applied in the shop, 45 minutes prior to your appointment for a fee of $40. Only shop approved numbing cream is allowed and you must email ahead. Please note that Aesthetic Tattoo does not recommend working with numbing cream as there are risks involved including but not limited to those that may affect the outcome of the tattoo. A required separate waiver specifically addressing these risks will be presented prior to application. DO NOT apply numbing cream that is not Aesthetic Tattoo approved. Doing so may result in refusal of service and the deposit for the scheduled appointment being forfeited.
HOW LONG DO FINE LINE TATTOOS LAST?
The longevity of a fine line tattoo, like any other tattoo, depends on various factors, including the location of the tattoo on the body, and how well the individual takes care of their skin post-tattooing.
Fine line tattoos can fade faster than bolder, thicker tattoos due to the nature of the design. Since the lines are finer, they may blur or spread over time, particularly if the tattoo is subjected to excessive sunlight, friction, or poor aftercare.
On average, fine line tattoos can last anywhere from a few years to several decades. However, with proper care and maintenance, including avoiding prolonged sun exposure, moisturizing the skin, and opting for touch-up sessions when needed, individuals can help prolong the life of their fine line tattoos.
Ultimately, while fine line tattoos may require more attention to preserve their detail and clarity, they can still be a long-lasting and beautiful form of self-expression for those who appreciate their intricate aesthetic.
cAN I DRINK ALCOHOL BEFORE GETTING MY TATTOO?
Alcohol can thin your blood, which increases the risk of bleeding during the tattooing process. Excessive bleeding can make it more challenging for the tattoo artist to work effectively and may result in a less precise outcome. Moreover, alcohol consumption can also impair your judgment and increase sensitivity to pain, potentially making the tattooing experience more uncomfortable than necessary. If you’re considering getting a tattoo, it’s best to avoid alcohol at least a day before leading up to your appointment to ensure the best possible experience and outcome. This applies to narcotics as well.
Should I eat before getting my tattoo?
It is highly recommended that you eat something before getting your tattoo. As you’re getting tattooed, adrenaline will be pumping through your veins and your blood sugar will fluctuate. Eating before your appointment will help keep you regulated and reduce your chance of becoming dizzy or passing out.
If you start to become dizzy during your appointment, inform Iryna immediately! She will pause the session and make sure you’re ok before continuing.
The skin around my tattoo is red and swollen; should i be worried?
Redness and itchiness is common with tattooing and the healing process. You can expect some redness as you’re being tattooed (some people more than others) and as your skin heals it will become itchy. However, some people may have an allergic reaction. Tattoo allergies can manifest in various forms and severity levels. Some common tattoo-related allergic reactions include:
Contact Dermatitis: This is one of the most common allergic reactions to tattoo ink. It typically presents as redness, swelling, itching, or rash around the tattooed area. Contact dermatitis can be caused by an allergic reaction to certain pigments or other ingredients in the tattoo ink. If the redness and swelling persists after a couple of weeks (or if it becomes infected/ painful) seek medical attention.
Allergic Reaction to Specific Pigments: Certain pigments used in tattoo ink, such as red and yellow, are more likely to cause allergic reactions than others. Allergic reactions to specific pigments can range from mild irritation to severe inflammation and may require medical attention depending on the severity.
Metal Allergies: Tattoos containing metallic compounds, such as those used in certain coloured inks or during the tattooing process itself (e.g., stainless steel needles), can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with metal allergies. Symptoms may include itching, swelling, and blistering around the tattooed area.
If you suspect you’re experiencing an allergic reaction to your tattoo, it’s crucial to seek medical advice promptly. A healthcare professional can diagnose the allergy and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include topical ointments, antihistamines, or, in severe cases, laser tattoo removal. Free touchups can be provided if a mild allergic reaction occurs and damages the tattoo (before 60 days). However, if the client has a severe reaction and the tattoo cannot be touched-up or laser removal is required, there will be no refunds or compensation. Unfortunately, tattoo Artists will not know if a client has tattoo allergies or not so they will not be able to inform the client ahead of time.