Got some questions about tattoos? You're not alone! We've gathered the 20 most asked questions to give you clear guidance on everything from preparation to healing and aftercare.

1. Can I use numbing cream before a tattoo?
2. Can I get tattooed while breastfeeding?
3. Can I get tattooed while on blood thinners?
4. Can I get tattooed while pregnant?
5. Can I get tattooed over a bruise?
6. Can I get tattooed while sick?
7. Can I get tattooed over a scar?
8. Can I get tattooed over stretch marks?
9. Can I get tattooed if I have eczema?
10. How often can I get tattooed?
11. Can I go swimming with second skin on my tattoo?
12. Can you go over a healing tattoo?
13. Can I go in a sauna with a fresh tattoo?
14. What to do if my tattoo is dry?
15. What to do if my tattoo is peeling?
16. What to do if my tattoo is infected?
17. What to do if my bandage came off?
18. What to do if my tattoo is itchy?
19. Do I need to shave before getting tattooed?
20. Do I need to cover my tattoo when showering?

1. Can I use numbing cream before a tattoo?

Yes, you can use numbing cream before getting tattooed. It's advised to check with your tattoo artist first, as some might refuse to work on skin with pre-applied numbing products. Numbing cream may alter the skin texture and interfere with the ink.

Considerations:

• Allergies and skin conditions must be taken into consideration before applying any numbing product.
• Always consult your artist beforehand, since some creams may alter the skin's texture, cause unwanted reactions, or make the skin harder to work with.
• Numbing cream will wear off abruptly, causing intense pain once it does.
• Apply a thick layer on the area 1-2 hours before the session, cover it with a plastic wrap, and let it sit (follow the product's specific instructions). Remove the wrap and wipe the cream off completely before starting.
• Use numbing creams specifically designed for tattoos.

2. Can I get tattooed while breastfeeding?

Getting tattooed while breastfeeding isn't strictly forbidden, but it's best to wait until you've finished nursing.

Risks and considerations:

• The main risks come from infections rather than ink contaminating breast milk.
• If the tattoo gets infected, bacteria or viruses could be transmitted through breast milk.
• Breastfeeding already demands energy and nutrients from your body, which may slow the healing process.
• It's recommended to wait that your baby is at least 6 moths old.
• If getting tattooed can't be avoided, choose a reputable, sterile studio.
• Avoid tattoos near the breast area.

3. Can I get tattooed while on blood thinners?

Getting tattooed while on blood thinners is not recommended unless your doctor explicitly approves it. The kind of medication, dosage and current health status.

Risks of getting tattooed on blood thinners:

• Blood thinners reduce your blood's ability to clot, causing excessive bleeding.
• Excess bleeding can wash out ink, leading to a patchy or faded tattoo.
• Healing may take longer, leaving the wound vulnerable to infection.

To keep in mind when choosing to get tattooed on blood thinners:

• Always consult your doctor before starting any procedure.
• Be honest with your artist about your condition.
• Look for an experienced artist that has worked before with older people skin or clients who bleed more easily. More experienced artists can adjust their technique to more specific situations.
• Consider a small tattoo to minimize trauma and healing time.
• Follow aftercare instruction meticulously, as heling your tattoo may take longer.

4. Can I get tattooed while pregnant?

No, it's not recommended to get tattooed while pregnant. The main concern is infection (HIV, Hepatitis B), which can harm the developing baby.

Why it's better to wait:

• An already overloaded immune system is more prone to infections.
• Contracting HIV or Hepatitis can affect the developing baby.
• Hormonal changes may affect tattoo healing.

5. Can I get tattooed over a bruise?

It's highly recommended to wait for the bruise to heal before tattooing the affected area. Tattooing over damaged skin can cause extra pain, poor ink retention and healing complications. The majority of the artists will refuse to tattoo over damaged skin.

Considerations:

• Tattooing over a bruise will add more trauma to the already damaged skin. The tattoo needle will cause extra unnecessary pain, increase risks of infection and cause the ink to spread abnormally (blow out).
• The colour of the bruise will compromise the inks, likely distorting the intended colour of the tattoo.
• Wait for the bruise to completely heal (around 14 days).

6. Can I get tattooed while sick?

It's strongly discouraged to get tattooed while sick. A tattoo is an open wound that requires the immune system to be fully functional in order to heal properly. While sick, your immune system is weakened, which can lead to increased pain, slower healing and higher risk of infections.

Considerations:

• Your body is unable to completely focus on healing the wound together with your current illness.
• Illness reduces pain tolerance and slows recovery.
• Increased bleeding due to illness may compromising the final quality of the tattoo.

7. Can I get tattooed over a scar?

Yes, you can get tattooed over a scar, but it must be fully healed; at least 12 months old. It's necessary that the scar has flattened and turned white rather than pink or red.

Considerations:

• Flat scars are safer to cover.
• Raised scars, such as keloids, are more difficult to cover, and it's often recommended to avoid tattooing over them in order to prevent irritation.
• Always pick an experienced artist when planning to cover any scar. Tattooing over scar tissue requires extra attention and care.
• The healing process can be slower due to the skin being extra fragile.
• Scar tissue may be more sensitive than normal skin. Some people might find it more painful and uncomfotable.

8. Can I get tattooed over stretch marks?

Yes, you can get tattooed over stretch marks. It must be taken into consideration that ink might spread unevenly on certain areas due to the skin's elasticity. A touch-up might be required once the tattoo has healed completely.

Considerations:

• Your stretch marks must be fully healed and faded. Preferably, they should be white-coloured rather than red or purple.
• Choose and experienced artist. Stretch marks are considered scars, meaning the ink might result uneven, and extra attention and knowledge are required.
• Stretch mark are more sensitive than regular skin, which might cause extra pain during the tattooing process.
• It's good to keep in mind that new stretch marks might appear in the same area, leading your previously done tattoos to warp and distort.

9. Can I get tattooed if i have eczema?

Yes, you can get tattooed if I have eczema, but it's essential to wait until your skin has cleared out. It's crucial to avoid getting tattooed over flared-up skin. Wait for the skin to be completely clear and hydrated.

Considerations:

• It's recommended to consult your dermatologist before booking a tattoo session.
• Tattooing over active eczema can damage the skin.
• Avoid getting tattooed on the eczema rash or close to it.
• Choose an artist that has experience in working with delicate, scarred or chronic skin conditions.
• Prioritise the use of fragrance-free and hypoallergenic moisturisers during the healing process to keep the area hydrated without triggering a reaction.
• If your eczema flares up after the tattoo, treat the skin as you usually would. Avoid scratching or picking your skin as this might damage the tattoo. Applying a cold compress to alleviate the itching sensation.

10. how often can i get tattooed?

You can potentially get tattooed as soon as your previous tattoo has completely healed, which usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks. It is strongly recommended to avoid overloading your immune system by getting tattooed too often.

Considerations:

• Multiple sessions over 2-3 months are very common when getting larger pieces. Wait a total of 4-6 weeks between sessions to let your body completely recover from the previous one.
• Consecutive days are also an option, but it's advised to avoid too many long sessions in a row (3+ days). Getting tattooed multiple days in a row can severely strain your immune system, slowing the healing process, and increase the risks of poor healing.
• Avoid getting tattooed if your tattoos is still scabbing or itching.
• If the previous tattoo is still sore and inflamed, wait longer.

11. Can I go swimming with second skin on my tattoo?

No, you should avoid swimming while having your second skin (Suprasorb) on. Despite the film being waterproof, it is recommended to not soak the area, as the glue might fail, leading to the film detaching or creating pockets of air, which will allow bacteria or chemicals to enter and cause possible infections or damage the tattoo.

Considerations:

• The film is not designed to be submerged for extended period.
• Chlorine or sea water can enter, leading to infections and damaging the tattoo.
• It's generally safe to go swimming after 1-2 weeks, depending on the style and size of the tattoo.

12. Can you go over a healing tattoo?

No, you can't go over a tattoo that is in the process of healing. It's advised to wait for the tattoo to completely heal in order to avoid scarring and any skin damage.

Considerations:

• It's ideal to wait around 4-6 weeks before going over a tattoo.
• Tattooing over the same area can be more painful, as the skin is more sensitive.
• Re-tattooing a healing area can disrupt and compromise the healing process.

13. Can I go in a sauna with a fresh tattoo?

No, you shouldn't go into a sauna with a new tattoo. It's recommended to wait 4-6 weeks or until the tattoo is fully healed. A sauna's environment can irritate the skin and slow down the healing process. Excessive heat and moisture can cause infections and blur the ink, resulting in poor healing.

Considerations:

• The hot and dump environment will promote bacterial growth, leading to infections and skin irritations.
• Wait for the skin to be fully healed, meaning your skin is back to normal.
• The high heat can cause the ink to fade or become patchy before the wound is healed, leading to a poorly healed tattoo.

14. What to do if my tattoo is dry?

When your tattoo is dry, apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or your favourite tattoo cream every time you feel your skin to be thight and extra dry.

Considerations:

• Moisturise frequently to avoid the skin cracking. Frequent lotion application can be crucial; the goal is to moisturise frequently but lightly.
• Prioritise natural products.
• Avoid overapplying lotions or ointments. Too much cream can lead to infections or pull the ink out.
• Do not scratch or peel the scabs. Gently tap the area to alleviate the itching.
• Keep moisturising your skin if you feel the need.

15. What to do if my tattoo is Peeling?

When your tattoo is peeling, it means it's healing. It's crucial to avoid picking your scab and moisturise the area with a thin layer of scent-free lotion.

Considerations:

• The tattoo usually starts to flake after 2-3 days after the session.
• Avoid picking and scratching the skin to prevent damage.
• Apply a thin layer of lotion to keep the area hydrated.
• Let your tattoo breath. Avoid using to thick or greasy lotions and wear breathable clothes.
• Do not scrab your tattoo with a washcloth or sponge.
• Avoid submerging your tattoo in pools, baths or hot tubs.

16. What to do if my tattoo is infected?

If you suspect that your tattoo is infected, contact your helthcare provider immediately. Signs of infection include instense pain, excessive redness, pus, and fever. While waiting for medical advice, keep the area clean and dry.

Considerations:

• Do not try to treat yourself, as some infections need professional treatment and antibiotics.
• Gently clean the area with mild soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry the area with a clean paper towel to remove excessive moisture.
• Avoid picking your skin, as it can introduce more bacteria.
• Apply a bandage only if advised by a professional.

17. What to do if my bandage came off?

If your bandage came off, wash your hands thoroughly and gently clean your tattoo with mild unscented soap. Let the tattoo air dry and cover it with a new dressing to prevent infections.

Considerations:

• Make sure that the wound is not bleeding excessively and it's completely clean before reapplying a new dressing.
• If your old bandage is stuck to the wound, apply warm water to gently loosen it.
• Contact your doctor if you see increased redness, swelling, pain or pus.
• If just a part of your bandage is coming off, do not stick it back down; instead, gently remove it and proceed with cleaning your tattoo.

18. What to do if my tattoo is itchy?

To relieve your itchy tattoo, keet it clean and apply a thin layer of moisturiser or, use a cool compress to soothe the skin. Avoid scratching the area, as this might damage your tattoo; instead, gently pat the area. Itching is a normal part of the healing process and usually lasts 1-2 weeks.

Considerations:

• Moisturising the area regularly keeps the itchiness at bay.
• A cold compress can help releving the itch. Wrap and ice pack in a dump, clean towel and apply it to the tattoo for about 5-10 minutes.
• Wear loose and soft clothing to reduce the irritation.
• Do not scratch your tattoo, as it might damage the skin and pull the ink out.
• Avoid sun exposure, swimming, and soaking your tattoo.
• Contact a doctor if the itchiness is accompanied by redness, pain, swelling or pus.

19. Do I need to shave before getting tattooed?

You don't have to shave before your tattoo appointment. It is recommended to let your artist shave the area in order to avoid unwanted irritations, scratches, or wounds.

Considerations:

• If you choose to shave at home, do it carefully 1-2 days before your appointment to avoid cuts and razor burns, which can interfere with the tattoo process.
• Do not wax the area to close to your tattoo session.

20. Do I need to cover my tattoo when showering?

Yes, you should keep your tattoo covered when showering for the first 1-2 days. It is recommeded to keep your showers short and to avoid very hot water. Gently pat your tattoo dry with a clean paper towel.

Considerations:

• Avoid direct contact with high-pressured water.
• Use a medical-grade wrap to keep your tattoo dry.
• Do not soak the area.

Do you have more questions or something you would like to ask about your situation?