Does It Hurt ?

Getting a tattoo can be painful. Many people interpret pain differently. Pain can vary, depending on where the tattoo is placed. However, don't let this be the determining factor in where you place your tattoo. Put it where you want it. After the procedure begins, your body will begin to relax, you'll become more comfortable and before you know it, your new tattoo will be complete.

How much does it cost?

Tattoos vary in price. Usually, the larger, more complicated tattoos cost more. Some studios have an hourly rate, and other studios can quote the entire tattoo. Be sure you get what you want in a tattoo. Don't let the price decide how big the tattoo is going to be. If you have got your mind set on a big piece, and you don't have the funds, save up and return when you do have the funds. Otherwise you're going to have a tattoo that you don't like.

If I gain or lose weight, will it affect my tattoo?

Typically no. However, there have been some cases where a person has lost or gained a significant amount of weight and the tattoo was affected by this. Usually , during pregnancy, a tattoo in the pelvic area will stretch. After pregnancy, when the body takes its original shape, the tattoo will return to normal. Stretch marks can damage a tattoo, but repairs are usually possible. Building muscle (significant muscle) can cause a tattoo to look distorted in certain areas of the tattoo.

Can a tattoo be removed?

Tattoos can be removed with laser technology that is available today. The results are fair. However, it's best to “think before you ink”. Make sure you completely understand what you're doing, getting, and that it is forever. Especially names, children’s names will never change, others might.

Can unwanted designs be covered with another tattoo?

Old, or unwanted tattoos can be covered with new tattoos. The process and outcome does depend on the tattoo you're covering. How old it is, how faded it is, placement and size. Generally, a tattoo being covered, needs to be covered with a larger tattoo. Also, your new tattoo, does not have to be solid black. Colors can be incorporated to help cover an old tattoo. Any reliable studio will have examples of cover-ups they have done. This will give you a great idea of how well their artists can cover old tattoos.

What makes a tattoo fade?

How long a tattoo lasts, and stays vibrant depends on many factors. First of all how well the artist applied the tattoo. Secondly, without proper daily care, your tattoos will fade. Don't expose your tattoos to the sun, if you're going to be outside, use a strong sun block. Skin lotion daily will help keep your tattoo looking great.

Are there any areas you can't put a tattoo?

Tattoos really shouldn't be placed in areas that wear quickly. The sides and bottom of feet. The bottom of hands and fingers and inside your mouth. these areas can be tattooed, but most shops either don't recommend it or don't stand behind the work.

What are the most popular designs?

The most popular designs can range from flowers, to hearts and eagles. However, it's you as the customer that can help in making your tattoo original and yours, forever. A good studio can help you create the tattoo you're looking for, should you not find it yourself.

How long before I can resume normal activities (swimming, tanning, etc.) after getting a tattoo?

Tattoo healing and resuming your daily routine usually takes about 2 weeks. Some people heal faster and some take longer. Your tattoo will go through a stage where it will shed a layer of flaky skin. This is normal. Sometimes scabbing will occur, but not always. Everyone is different. After all the flaking has come off, and there is no scabbing left, you can resume swimming, tanning, etc. Swimming and tanning before your tattoo heals, can cause it to get infected and not heal properly. Be patient and the results will be rewarding.

What are the chances of getting AIDS from a tattoo?

In a professional licensed tattoo studio that maintains a strict method of sanitation, zero. Always make sure the equipment is single service use! All instruments and needles need to be autoclave sterilized, and the pigments used on each person thrown away! Make sure the artist follows these procedures and works in a sanitary environment! Don't be afraid to ask the artist questions while he/she is setting up. Getting a tattoo by an amateur in their home can be very dangerous, especially if they have no knowledge of sterilization or safe operating procedures. Bacterial infections, hepatitis, and syphilis are prevalent in a dirty work environment. The money spent at a professional tattoo studio is well worth the assurance that the only thing you get is a tattoo.

At Slingin’ Ink, we take our sterilization very seriously. We have an in-house Autoclave, that sterilizes our equipment, to ensure the cleanest and safest of all conditions related to a Tattooing and Piercing studio. The majority of our equipment (needles, tubes, etc.) are single patron use.

Since 1996, Slingin’ Ink has been a member of the University of Iowa sterilization monitoring service. This service is provided through the U of I Dental program in Iowa City, Iowa. Slingin’ Ink is tested every two weeks, and we are proud to say that all of our tests have come back clean.

If you have been to several different tattoo studios, you know that almost every studio has a different set of care instructions. If you have several tattoos, you are no stranger to healing and knowing what works best for you and your body. You will find that most of the top studios usually promote the same care instructions. There may be a few different ones in there.

At Slingin' Ink Tattoos, we know what works best the the tattoos that we give people. Based on our experience, we feel it is best to remove your bandage two hours after getting your tattoo. Make sure your hands are cleaned thoroughly with water and a antibacterial soap. Once your hands are clean, work up some suds with your hands and gently cleanse your tattoo. Rinse your hands and take some water and gently rinse your tattoo. Gently pat your tattoo dry with a disposable towel. Be cautious not to sleep on your tattoo for the next few nights. Be sure to cleanse your tattoo daily, but don't let it soak under any water. Don't put anything on your tattoo for four to five days, basically, let your tattoo dry heal. Your tattoo is going to itch as it heals, but this is normal. On the fourth or fifth day, your tattoo will begin to peel much like a sunburn would. This is your outer layer of skin (epidermis) dying and flaking off. This is a good time to start applying a thin layer of unscented Lubriderm skin lotion to your tattoo. Gently rub the lotion into your tattooed area. Make sure you rub the lotion into your skin, try not to leave any lotion visible.

This procedure will allow your body to heal your tattoo it's best allowing the pigment to heal into your skin slowly and allow for a better looking, healed tattoo. Most importantly, if you have any questions, please contact your artist before taking any advice from friends. Your artist is the professional knows best what will work for the proper healing of your tattoo.