Reasons to avoid getting tattooed include:

• You are under the age of 18. In the state of California, you must be 18 or older to get tattooed. No exceptions.

• You have an active viral or bacterial infection, such as a cold/flu/Covid, Staphylococcus infection/MRSA, pink eye, etc…

• You are taking or have taken Accutane, Minomycin, or any other Tetracycline medication within the last 6 months.

• You have active eczema, psoriasis, rash, or infection in the area to be tattooed, or in areas where chronic conditions flare up regularly.

• You are prone to keloids.

• You have plans that include sun exposure, swimming, saunas, hot tubs, or vigorous exercise within two weeks following your appointment.

• You have difficulty healing wounds.

• You are taking blood thinners, or have a clotting disorder.

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Limit alcohol intake starting the night before your appointment.

• Eat a solid meal beforehand.

• Hydrate/avoid being dehydrated.

• If you are prone to fainting, let your artist know beforehand so they can minimize the possibility, and bring a sugary drink such as juice or (non-diet) soda to your appointment.

• Shower

• Avoid perfumes or colognes.

Depending on the size and/or placement, you can expect a degree of redness, swelling, warmth and tenderness in the area immediately afterward and up to a couple of days. It will likely feel similar to a bad sunburn or mild rug burn/road rash. Within a few days, the top layer of your tattoo will begin to flake off. It will be itchy, similar to when you’re healing any abrasion. Moisturizing will help with this. Do not pick at it during this stage.

• If using a “second skin” type bandage, such as Tegaderm, leave the bandage on for three days (tell your artist if you have any known sensitivity to adhesives).

• Remove the bandage gently with soap and water. Lather and rinse with your hand until the tattooed area feels clean.

• Dry with a clean towel, and apply a small amount of lotion that you can rub all the way in. Do not leave excess lotion sitting on top.

• Wash and moisturize the area twice daily. If it is feeling dry/itchy, you can use a small amount of lotion throughout the day, but you don’t want to keep it “wet”.

• Always wash your hands before washing or moisturizing your tattoo.

• Do not pick at the tattoo when it begins to peel. This can cause scarring and/or pigment loss.

• Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight for a minimum of two weeks. Do not use sunblock while it is healing.

• No swimming or soaking in any body of water (shower and washing only) until all of the flakes have come off naturally.

Traditional tattoo artists have refined their skills both in precision and saturation, resulting in a tattoo that is built to last from the start. This means an eye for detail and artistry, as well as less discomfort, and a reduced risk of scarring or need for frequent touch-ups.