Are tattoos safe?
Yes, getting a tattoo is generally safe as long as you are getting it in a sanitary environment with a licensed tattoo artist.
Does getting a tattoo it hurt?
Yes, getting a tattoo will hurt somewhat. Some areas of skin will be more sensitive, like your calf or in your armpit, others may not be as painful, such as your arms. Tattoo pain can vary from person to person, so if you are nervous about your first tattoo ask your artist to design for a spot that is less painful.
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How does it feel to get a tattoo?
Getting a tattoo feels like having your artist draw on you with a ballpoint pen after getting a sunburn.
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Should I use numbing cream or pain killers for my tattoo?
In some cases it may be advisable to use numbing cream or or pain killers during your tattoo. Please consult a doctor and your personal artist before your tattoo if you are considering using numbing cream or pain killers during your tattoo. Your doctor and artist can work together to determine which cream or pain killer is best for you in your situation.
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How much is it going to cost?
Tattoo prices will vary from artist to artist, with some artists even charging up to $5,000 a day! Be sure to research your artist before booking and make sure that you plan a budget for your art. Remember, in many cases you pay for the quality you get.
Should I tip my tattoo artist?
While it is not required to tip your tattoo artist, many tattoo artists expect and rely on you to tip them for their work.
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Do I have to tip my tattoo artist in cash, or can I give them a gift instead?
An appropriate, thoughtful gift is acceptable to most tattoo artists! Some examples of gifts are: hand made artwork, gift cards, trade work, basic tattoo supplies (like paper, paper towels, etc. Your artists will love you!).
What tattoo should I get? and where?
Deciding on a new tattoo can be stressful and difficult. Your artist will likely want you to have a some general ideas of what you want to work off of. Using social media apps such as Pinterest and Instagram are excellent places to start. Start by looking at what tattoos people are already getting to give you some ideas for what you would like to have tattooed on you. Your artist can take your ideas and blend them into a custom design just for you.
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What is your shop minimum?
This can vary from artist to artist. At Rachel Rose Ink apprentices start at $60 per tattoo, whereas full artists start at $100. You should reach out to your artist to make sure you understand what their pricing structure looks like. ​
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Should I walk in to book a tattoo appointment?
The best way to book an appointment at Rachel Rose Ink is through our scheduling form, which you can find here. After your form is completed, your artist will reach out to you and schedule your appointment.
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How old should I be to get tattooed?
Rachel Rose Ink does not tattoo minors under the age of 18.
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What Happens If I'm Late For My Tattoo Appointment?
If you are more than 15 minutes late to your tattoo appointment, your appointment will be cancelled automatically. If your artist collected a deposit, you will loose the deposit paid for the appointment. If this is a repeated event your artist may be unwilling to reschedule with you again.
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What Happens If I No Show To My Tattoo Appointment?
If you fail to show up for your tattoo appointment, your appointment will be cancelled automatically. If your artist collected a deposit, you will loose the deposit paid for the appointment. Please give your artist 48 hour notice to cancel or reschedule your tattoo appoint, otherwise your artist may be unwilling to reschedule with you again. All deposits are non-refundable.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Get a Tattoo?
While you are able to get a tattoo any time of the year, it is generally better to get one in the winter. This is because your tattoo will is likely to receive less sun damage during the healing process in the winter. In the other seasons, you should be conscious of how much sun exposure your tattoo is receiving, and try to minimize this as much as possible.
Is It OK to Get a Tattoo if I'm Sick?
The Rose Team recommends that you reschedule your tattoo appointment if you are sick, especially if you have a viral illness like the flu or the cold. Your artist will likely not appreciate if you get them sick, especially if they are unable to work for a few days afterword.
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How Long Will It Take to Get My Tattoo?
The time it takes to complete your tattoo will vary from piece to piece. It could be as short as 20 minutes, to even 10 hours! Some larger tattoos, such as sleeves or backpieces, may even take multiple all day sessions. You should consult your artist when determining how long your tattoo may take. Some variables that influence how long it takes to get a tattoo are size, location, detail, and how many colors your tattoo will have.
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Can tattoo's be removed?
Yes, tattoos can be removed but you skin will still not look the same afterword. There will be some scarring and possibly some ink residue left over after the tattoo. It's generally not recommended to expect to be able to remove your tattoo if you don't like it.
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Is my tattoo permanent?
Yes, tattoos are permanent. Tattoo removal is an option in most cases. It may not completely remove the tattoo and the skin damage, but removal can make your tattoo significantly less visible. Depending on the tattoo you want to change you also may be able to have your artist cover up or alter the original tattoo with a new art piece. Best practice is to reach out to your artist and see what they think is best for your specific situation.
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Can I cover up an older tattoo with a new tattoo?
Sometimes tattoo coverups are an option for changing a tattoo you no longer want. Your artist may recommend you partially remove the tattoo with one or two sessions to lighten it up before covering the area with a new tattoo. Best practice is to reach out to your artist and see what they think is best for your specific situation.
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Which areas hurts most to get tattooed?
Generally areas that receive less rubbing or exposure are more sensitive. This may include areas such as armpits, calves, inner thigh, ribs.
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Which areas hurts the least to get tattooed?
Generally areas that receive more exposure and rubbing hurt less to be tattooed. This can include outer arms and outer thigs.
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What should I get for my first tattoo?
Deciding what to get and where to place your first tattoo can be a stressful and confusing experience. Working with a qualified, experienced tattoo artist, such as one of the Rachel Rose Team members can help as they will work with you to create a perfect design and pick the perfect spot to place it!
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How should I decide on my tattoo design?
Choosing a tattoo design can be difficult, especially if this is your first time. The Rose Team artists recommend that you begin by saving images of tattoo's, pictures, and art pieces on subjects that interest you using apps such as Instagram or Pinterest. Then, your artist will work with you to design a unique piece of art based on the images you bring in.
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How do I know which tattoo artist to book with?
The Rose Team suggests that you should begin by researching your local artists and tattoo shops on Instagram to see their portfolio. If you like the artists style and you think they do good work, then you should reach out to your artist to book.
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Can I drink or get high during my tattoo?
It is not recommended that you use drugs or alcohol during your tattoo.
Where can I find pictures of tattoos to use for my design?
The Rose Team recommends that you use Pinterest and Instagram to find images to use in your tattoo design.
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How long does it take for a tattoo to heal?
The tattoo healing process can take anywhere from a week to a month to heal completely. It is best practice to treat your tattoo like a fresh wound for up to two weeks after receiving it.
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How can I keep my tattoo from fading?
Tattoo's fade fastest with exposure to the sun or even tanning beds. You should be mindful to put sunscreen on your tattoo's and avoid exposure to the sun as much as possible. Tanning, also, is not recommended.
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How do I care for my tattoo after it has healed?
After your tattoo has healed, it is best to use a skin lotion to keep the area healthy and avoid peeling because of dry skin. Avoid the sun as much as possible, and be sure to wear sunscreen whenever you spend more than 30 minutes outside!
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How do I care for my tattoo while it is healing?
The Rose Team recommends that you wash your tattoo twice a day with non-scented antibacerial soap, gently rubbing any dust or dirt that has tracked onto the tattoo. Keep your tattoo moist with the Rose Budder tattoo cream or similar product for three days after the tattoo. Avoid wearing clothes that will rub off the Rose Budder and avoid the sun. If you must wear clothes (such as at work) then wear light, breathable materials. Avoid picking, scratching, or rubbing the tattoo area, especially if it is peeling. This could lighten and damage the tattoo.
Is tanning ok when you have tattoos?
Tanning, both in tanning beds and from direct exposure to the sun will cause your tattoo to fade over time. It is not recommended for this reason.
Can I shave after a new tattoo?
Avoid shaving the tattoo area until the healing process has completed. Shaving too early could peel off some of the skin on the tattoo causing it to become lighter and need touch up work.
My friend just bought a tattoo kit and wants to practice on me. Is this safe?
Getting tattooed by anyone other than a licensed, experienced tattoo artist comes with dangerous risks and should be avoided. Some of the risks of being tattooed by an unlicensed tattoo artist include increased risk of infection, increased risk of transmitting blood-born pathogens such as Herpes, AIDS, and other STI's, and increased risk of tattoo- altering issues such as blown-out lines. For these reasons, it is not recommended to receive a home tattoo under any circumstances.
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How should I prepare for my tattoo session?
You should prepare for you tattoo by doing the following things: shower (your artist will appreciate it, I promise), find someone to watch your kids or pets, double check to make sure you have enough money for the tattoo, eat a good breakfast and bring a snack, plan for a crash (you will want some recovery time after your tattoo), bring some pictures of tattoo ideas.
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What should I wear for my tattoo session?
The Rose Team recommends that you wear something that is light, loose, clean, and comfortable. You should bring a removable layer such as a jacket or blanket if you get cold. If you are getting a tattoo under your normal clothes line, such as on your chest or legs, wear some clothing that easily leaves that part of your body revealed so that you don't have to undress. For sensitive tattoo locations, your artist will provide privacy doors and pastes. Occasionally, ink splatter may get onto your clothing. For this reason, wear clothes that you are okay with minor stains.
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When should I avoid getting a tattoo?
You should not be tattooed if you are sick or pregnant. Talk to your doctor before getting a tattoo. You should also
trust your instincts, if something feels off about your artist or the tattoo shop you have every right to leave.
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Can I do trade work to pay for my tattoo?
Yes! Many artists love trade work! Be sure to contact and negotiate with your tattoo artist ahead of time so you don't get stuck paying when you weren't expecting it!
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Can I pay for my tattoo in payments?
No, Sacred Rose tattoo artists expect you to pay in full on the day of your appointment.