Tattoo FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Tattoos
If you’re thinking of getting your first tattoo, you probably have a lot of questions. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about getting a tattoo.
What Are Some First Tattoo Tips And Advice?
- Make Sure To Hydrate Your Skin
- Avoid The Sun
- Use A Razor
- Get Plenty Of Rest
- Eat A Good Meal And Drink Water
- Wear Old Clothing
- Bring A Little Entertainment
What Are Things That Can Damage Your New Tattoo if You’re Not Careful?
- Not listening to Instructions
- Peeling The Scab
- Sleeping on Your Tattoo
- Swimming and Bathing
- Keeping it Covered for Too Long
- Wearing Tight Clothing
- Sunbathing Too Soon
- Too Much Touching
- Choosing the Wrong Location
- Choosing the Wrong Artist
Read this article to learn more about the things that can damage your new tattoo.
How Do You Book Your First Tattoo Appointment?
- Get an Idea of What You Want
- Find an Artist or Studio
- Closed Book
- Booking the Appointment
- Walk-In Tattoos
- Prices and Deposits
- Prepare for the Appointment
- Preparing for Pain
- After Care
Get more information on what to expect for first time tattoos!
Can I Use Baby Wipes On A New Tattoo?
As far as using baby wipes to clean your new tattoo, you want to use the right kind. They should be unscented and free of any additives. There are other things you should know about baby wipes and other methods to keep your tattoo clean during the healing process.
My New Tattoo Is Swollen, Red and Bruised—Is This Normal?
If you’ve just gotten a new tattoo and it’s red and bruised, you’re probably wondering whether this reaction is normal.
Well, the answer is basically yes. The irritation results from the tattoo needle and ink piercing the skin and going into the different layers beneath the surface. When a foreign object enters the skin, your body will sense that a wound is occurring and the process the skin goes through takes effect. You’ll see both swelling and bruising.
If your tattoo is swollen or bruised, check out this article!
Why Is Winter the Best Time To Get A Tattoo?
There are not any hard and fast rules about when you schedule your tattoo appointment. However, people tend to have more difficulty healing after their tattoo is completed when they do this during the hot and muggy summer months. This is because exposing the new tattoo to sunlight can impede healing and extend the recovery process.
What Is The Best Method For Removing Tattoos?
People say all the time that a tattoo is a lifelong decision, so you want to make sure that you truly like the idea of having one before you get inked. Yet, once you get it, you might have some regrets. Maybe the tattoo didn’t live up to your expectations or the artwork isn’t a masterpiece. Perhaps the ink is blurred or faded or you develop an allergic reaction. Whatever the reason, tattoos can be removed with a couple of methods—laser removal, creams, surgery, dermabrasion, and so on.
Today we’re going to discuss some options for tattoo removal, including which method is the best.
Does Tattoo Numbing Cream Work?
In many cases, these numbing tattoo creams are effective and safe. Many people choose to use them because they make the experience more comfortable. These creams can even take out some of the anxiety of the tattooing process.
If you are interested in a numbing cream, you want to find a brand that has a high level of lidocaine. This ingredient will numb the skin and provide relief during the tattoo session.
How Many Sessions Does Getting a Sleeve Tattoo Take
There is no way that we can give you a definitive answer to this question because it will depend on several key factors. In general, those tattoos which are larger and more complex will tend to take longer.
Most of the professionals will give you an estimate of 10-15 hours total work time for a sleeve tattoo. Obviously, that isn’t going to be a single session. Bear in mind that the time frame is just a rough estimate. So, instead of trying to provide a one-size-fits-all answer (which would be impossible), let’s examine the things that will determine the number of hours and sessions that will be required for your sleeve tattoo.
Sleeve tattoo sessions can be lengthy. Find out how many sessions it may take! for your tattoo!
Do Tattoo Artists In Philadelphia Use New Needles?
In most circumstances, tattoo needles are only for a single person, and they should never be reused. If you are at home and tattooing yourself, you can sterilize the needles for a second use. However, in a professional tattoo parlor, those needles should not be reused and must be disposed immediately after use.
Learn more about the needles that tattoo artists use in Philadelphia!
When Will a Finger Tattoo Start to Blur and Fade?
Deterioration of tattoos is based on individual factors. That said, if treated with love and care, your finger tattoo won’t lose any of its vibrancy prior to 6-8 months. Some people have retained the brilliance of their finger tattoos for about 12 months, but once you hit that point, you can expect some visible fading and blurring.
Should I Wrap My New Tattoo and For How Long?
You’ll receive the wrapping shortly after your new ink has been completed. The tattoo artist will disinfect the tattooed area with a mild soap or antibacterial cleaner. Once the area has been sterilized and is completely dry, the artist then places a professional tattoo film or plastic foil over the tattoo to shield it from harmful microbes.
Other times to wrap your tattoo include:
- When you are sleeping
- When you wear tight clothing or an irritating material
- When you’re playing contact sports
- While in a dirty environment
Is My Tattoo Still Healing?
In many cases, tattoo healing can be divided into several stages. Your tattoo will be bandaged for the first day, and you should treat it as an open wound. You might notice oozing, inflammation, swelling, redness, or a burning sensation on the skin. Many of these symptoms will occur for the first week.
During the second week, you will notice flaking and itching. You should not be concerned with flaking skin. That peeling is a normal response to tattooing. You never want to pull at the skin. It is crucial not to pick at the skin or scabs. At this time, make sure that you apply moisturizer to the skin so that the area stays hydrated.
For the next few weeks, your tattoo could start to dry out. If you continue to experience redness or oozing, that is often a sign of an infection. During this time, your tattoo might appear to look less vibrant. However, after a few weeks, your skin will exfoliate to reveal a bright and vibrant tattoo.
It is important to keep up with the aftercare for the next few months. After the second month, you will notice that the redness and itchiness have subsided. You need to keep your skin hydrated, wear sunscreen, and clean the area.
Is It Normal For Ink To Come Off When A Tattoo Is Healing?
All tattoos will lose some of their ink during the healing process. Hopefully, it won’t be enough to ruin the appearance of the work, but it all depends on the skill of the artist.
It’s important to understand that tattooing creates a multitude of tiny wounds in your skin. As the body tries to heal those wounds, there will often be peeling, scabbing, and a little soreness. This happens because that patch of skin is dead and it naturally wants to shed itself. As it sheds and scabs, some of the ink is taken away as well.
Check out this article to learn what to expect with your healing tattoo!
Is It Okay To Put Clothes On Directly Over New Tattoos?
As long as there is a bandage between your new tat and your clothes, things should be fine. That does not count as direct wear since there is a middle layer. As long as the clothing does not directly contact the tattooed skin, there should be no significant problems.
If your tattoo is located in a not-so-public area, it might not be practical (or legal) to go without clothing. Groin-area tattoos are an obvious example here, as are chest tattoos on women. If this is your situation, you can still wear clothing over your naughty little decoration. However, during the healing process, you must always keep a bandage between your skin and the cloth.
Should you put clothes on your new tattoo? Get the best answers here!
How To Know If A Local Tattoo Shop Is Worth My Money?
When it comes time to choose a shop, you want to find one that acts professionally. Your first contact with the shop should be your first clue. When you called or emailed, how did they respond? Did they seem interested?
You want to feel welcomed when you enter the shop. If the atmosphere is relaxed, the shop cares about their work, artists, and clients. A professional tattoo shop will be happy to answer your questions and put you at ease. Even the artist should take time to listen to your ideas and make you feel welcomed. When you spot all of these signs, it is an indication of a great tattoo shop.
Can You Get A Tattoo In Philadelphia If You Have Psoriasis?
People with psoriasis get tattooed all of the time, but they are limited to certain areas of the body. If you have scale-like patches on specific body spots, you might want to choose another place. Some states prohibit artists from inking someone with an active psoriasis flare. Before you get inked, check with one of the Philadelphia tattoo shops to ask for advice on this skin condition.
In some individuals with psoriasis, there is something called the Koebner phenomenon. Any trauma to the skin, including a tattoo, can cause psoriasis lesions to develop. As a result, you might notice a few flare-ups near the tattoo. About 25 percent of people with psoriasis will develop a legion after skin trauma. If you have any concerns, you might want to speak to your doctor before scheduling a tattoo session.
You can learn more about getting tattoos while having Psoriasis here!
What Are The Signs That I’m Having A Bad Reaction To The Tattoo?
Some signs of a tattoo allergy include red and itchy skin. There might be a rash on the tattoo. In many situations, the skin will be red with swelling. Blisters can develop, causing more irritation and itchiness. After the session, your skin will be irritated, but it should not have any swelling or rashes. If those signs are present, you might have a bad reaction to the tattoo.
If you think you’re having a bad reaction to a tattoo, you’ll want to read this!
Aquaphor For Tattoos: Is This Recommended For Aftercare?
Aquaphor helps the skin heal faster than other products. For that reason, many people use Aquaphor for their tattoo aftercare routine. There are a few benefits to using this product. First, it can help to prevent any bacterial infections. Since it creates a seal on the skin, it stops germs and bacteria from entering the fresh wound.
Scabs are always an issue with fresh ink. As the tattoo heals, a crust will form over the new skin. Those scabs can be itchy and uncomfortable. Aquaphor might help reduce some scabbing and provide instant relief for irritated skin. Along with that, Aquaphor may be effective at promoting a faster healing process. The ointment keeps the new ink hydrated, leading to healthier skin.
Aquaphor is suitable for those who have sensitive skin. As you may have guessed, the tattooing process will irritate your skin. For that reason, you need a solution to calm that tender area. The ingredients in Aquaphor are ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin. You don’t have to worry about clogged pores or irritation when using a thin layer of this product.
Can You Get a Tattoo if Your Skin Is Peeling from Sunburn?
It is important for the skin tone to be normal and even before even considering getting a tattoo. Otherwise, the ink will usually not penetrate evenly and to the depth it needs to for a great end result.
- Skin surrounding tattoo may not heal properly
- Increased pain and skin sensitivity increases tattoo process discomfort greatly
- Blisters could form that may lead to serious skin infection if broken
- Your damaged skin may reject the tattoo ink-Scarring or scabbing may occur on sun damaged skin that could alter tattoo result in a negative manner
- Could cause appearance issues with tattoo design and ink colors
- Hard for tattoo artist to match true skin tone on burnt skin that may be reddened or tanned a darker tone
- No self-respecting professional tattoo artist will tattoo sunburnt skin
Learn about if you should get a tattoo with sunburn or peeling skin!
Tattoo Numbing Creams: Are They Worth It?
In general, when applied correctly at the proper time and correct dosage, these numbing creams have become popular with many individuals who have a low pain tolerance or have extreme anxieties about undergoing a tattoo without using anything for the discomfort. Most of the tattoo enthusiasts who do use these creams report that they do have a more comfortable tattoo session in most cases.
You’ll learn in this article if tattoo numbing creams are worth using!
When To Get A Tattoo Touched Up
When a tattoo loses its color, brightness, and intensity, you’ll see that fading is the eventual effect. This may be an indication that your tattoo requires a touch-up. With a tattoo that’s fading, an artist will likely use the ink in the areas where the fading is the worst. With a few touch-ups in the most crucial areas, your old tattoo will return to its original look. An artist won’t add ink to the entire tattoo, just to the areas that show fading.
Learn more about when you should get your tattoo touched up!
How Long Does It Take For A Tattoo To Start Fading & What To Do When That Happens
The immediate aftercare instructions from your tattoo artist need to be followed to the letter. Failure to do this right can result in color leaking and fading. It can also cause the tattoo to appear dry and flaky. The first 6 months are considered the initial care time frame, as it will take this long for the tattoo to heal properly and completely.
How Long Will A New Tattoo Be Sore For?
In the best of circumstances, a tattoo should be sore for about 3 to 7 days after the tattoo session. Again, this timeline will vary somewhat between different individuals, their pain tolerance level, how well they follow aftercare instructions and tattoo placement, size and ink colors used among other contributing factors.
Can You Play Sports After Getting a Tattoo?
Most professional tattoo artists, including those at Oracle Tattoo Gallery, will strongly recommend waiting at least 48 hours or more following a tattoo session to begin any sort of athletic activities including playing sports. However, most tattoos will take 4 to 6 weeks for the initial healing to be complete. It takes even longer for full post-tattoo healing.
This article will give you advice on playing sports after a new tattoo!
How Long Can A New Tattoo Be In the Sun?
On average, a new tattoo is not considered fully healed until about 4 to 6 weeks after the tattoo session. This time frame does vary due to differences in tattoo style, design, size and colors as well as differences of each tattoo enthusiast’s skin condition in general.
Every tattoo will go through different stages of healing. The first two weeks following a new tattoo are the most critical, and tattoos should not be exposed to sun even with sunscreen during these initial first stages. The tattoo site typically begins to scab over, and it is common for the skin at the tattoo site to become dry and flaky. Some tattoos will peel.
Never put sunscreen on newly tattooed skin during the first week or two to avoid irritating the skin even further. If the tattoo is in a visible area hard to cover up with clothing, the tattoo should be covered with a breathable bandage or gauze wrap so it will be protected from sunburn or worse.
If you want to get info on tattoos being in the sun, check this out!
Can I Use Vaseline On A New Tattoo?
No! Let’s take a look at why you need to keep Vaseline away from a fresh tattoo. Vaseline is made from 100 percent petroleum jelly. Many people use this product to moisturize dry, damaged, or sensitive skin. Petroleum jelly is a mixture of mineral oil and waxes. Advertisers marketed Vaseline as a “wonder jelly.” With that, it was a staple in homes for many years.
For those fresh tattoos, Vaseline is not a good option. The thick petroleum jelly blocks the tattoo from getting air, affecting healing. After putting on Vaseline, you might even experience swelling or redness around the tattoo. If you see any of those signs, you need medical attention. An infection can lead to scarring, which can ruin your tattoo. If you want to reach for the jar of Vaseline, you might want to rethink that decision. Most Philadelphia tattoo shops will recommend that you keep Vaseline away from new ink.
If you are considering a tattoo, contact Oracle Tattoo Gallery today by completing the consultation form online. Our artists are experienced and will walk you through the entire process.
Call 215-638-1601.
