How to Take Care of Your New TATTOO?

By: Lisa Washington

Are you the proud owner of some new ink and in need of some tips for caring for a new tattoo? Caring for your new artwork is important since you want to avoid any infections, scarring or blotchiness. So with that said, let’s go over some essential tips on caring for your gorgeous new tattoo and keep it looking healthy.

1. Leave Your Bandage on Overnight

The first tip for caring for a new tattoo is to leave your bandage on overnight. Some will say you only have to leave it wrapped for a few hours but fresh ink has a tendency to slightly bleed off the area and onto sheets the first night so it’s a good idea to keep it covered.

2. Keep It Clean

The next tattoo aftercare tip is to keep your tattoo clean. Most reputable tattoo shops will clean and cover the tattoo prior to you leaving the shop then it’s up to you to keep it clean. Wash your tattoo with cool or lukewarm water and a mild antibacterial soap and pat or air dry. Avoid letting the water directly hit your tattoo to prevent discomfort and irritation. The best way to look at it is to treat it like a burn- be delicate, keep it moist and clean and protect it!

3. Protect

After washing the area, the next new tattoo tip is to protect it. You’ll want to apply some ointment and allow it to breathe by keeping it uncovered. Depending on where your tattoo is, you may or may not be able to keep it uncovered. If your tattoo is going to be covered by your clothes, you’ll probably want to apply a bandage or cellophane to avoid friction and keep it protected.

4. Bandage Change

If your tattoo happens to still require wearing a bandage, changing it is the next tip for caring for a new tattoo. You’ll want to change your bandage 2-3 times per day and continue to wash it and apply the ointment. With most tattoos, after 3-4 days it should be healed enough where you won’t need to keep it covered and only a thin layer of ointment is necessary to keep it moist. Remember to only keep it covered when you need to protect it, you want to allow it to breathe!

5. Shun Sun

I know we’re in the fall so the next tip for caring for a new tattoo shouldn’t be much of an issue, but it still warrants a mention. Avoid exposing your new tat to the sun or in chlorinated or salt water for at least a month after you get your tattoo to avoid bleaching it out. Once it's totally healed, apply sunblock to protect it from the sun's rays.

6. Don’t Be Picky

Tattoo aftercare rules dictate that if you happen to get some minor scabbing, don’t get picky! They should fall off on their own after 7-10 days and picking at your skin can cause infection, scarring and can lead to blotchiness or possibly damaging the tattoo. So remember to leave the scabbing skin be and let the tattoo heal naturally.

7. Don’t Use Lotion

One of the top tips for caring for a new tattoo is to avoid using lotion. These topical treatments might seem like the most logical choice but ointments like Neosporin can dry out ink, and lotion should only be used after the tattoo has healed over to keep skin moist. Once the tattoo has initially healed, use lotion for at least a month to keep skin moist.

I hope you find these tips for caring for a new tattoo helpful for you! There are many factors that will determine the care necessary for your new tattoo and the very best thing to do is to listen to your tattoo artist’s instructions. These preceding tips apply to most tattoos but the artist’s technique, the size and location of the tattoo can definitely affect some of the aftercare instructions. I hope you’re enjoying your new tattoo! Do you have any aftercare tips?

Tattoos and Tanning

By: Karen L. Hudson

The Sun is Your Tattoo's Worst Enemy

The Lure of the Sun

Warm weather and the desire for a beautiful golden tan means one thing to many people - sunbathing. OK, I'll admit it. I've always been a sun worshipper. To me there is nothing like the feeling of warm rays soaking into your skin as you bask away all the stress and worries of the day. You'd never know that looking at me now. Why? Because of my tattoos. 

Sun Exposure

It's no secret that tanning isn't really good for your skin anyway, but it's even harder on your tattoos. Ultraviolet rays, while adding a nice bronze tone to your skin, drain the life out of a tattoo. The more you tan, the more the ink fades and slowly goes from brilliant to boring.

Does that mean your tanning days are over? Well, I guess that depends on how much you love your tattoos and want them to stay bright and looking their best. I can certainly empathize with anyone that also loves the sun and just can't stay away. If you absolutely must go soak up some rays, at least be sensible and use sun block. Find the highest SPF level you can find and re-apply often if you're going to spend a lot of time outside. If you just can't accept having pasty white skin and your goal is to go out and get some color, make sure you at least protect your tattoos with as much sunscreen as possible. 

Tanning Beds

What about tanning beds? Indoor tanners are just as damaging as the sun, if not more so. The ultraviolet rays are much more concentrated and people tend to over-expose themselves in tanning beds, not realizing their own limits. Burning the skin damages a tattoo even more than slowly tanning. Again, if you must do it, protect your ink! 

At Risk?

If you don't like laying out in the burning sun or getting a tan, does that mean you're not at risk? Maybe not. Most of us spend more time exposed to the sun than we realize. Ever get home and find your left arm sunburned from resting your arm on your car window while driving? Or find yourself getting tan lines just from running errands or working outside? Any time that your tattoo is going to be exposed to the sun, cover it! You can cover it with clothing or sunscreen, or stay in the shade. 

Brand New Tattoo

Don't put sunblock on a new or fresh tattoo - follow your artist's aftercare instructions and keep your tattoo covered or shaded with clothing for the first few weeks. You can use sunblock once your tattoo has finished peeling and has grown it's first protective layer of skin. But sunblock alone is not going to be sufficient for a new tattoo if it is exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time. A tattoo is usually considered well-healed after about 3 months. 

Sunless Tanning Lotions?

If you use sunless tanning lotions for a tanned effect, this is as safe to your tattoo as applying any other type of lotion. As long as the tattoo is completely healed, nothing can hurt the tattoo that doesn't hurt the rest of your skin. However, depending on the shade and color of the particular sunless tanning lotion you use, it may create an odd effect to your tattoo's appearance. It would make more sense just to avoid putting the lotion directly over the tattoo. 

Don't be a Gambler

Your tattoo is an investment, so don't gamble on that investment by not properly caring for it. It takes very little effort to either cover up or safeguard your tattoo with sunscreen. Proper care can keep a tattoo looking vibrant for years to come.

 

When Is the Best Time of Year to Get Tattooed?

Most people think of getting a tattoo in the spring and summer, when it's hot out, they're wearing shorts and tank tops and wanting to show off more flesh. Then when cooler weather comes around and the long sleeves and long pants come out, the idea of getting tattooed fades away.

Cool Weather Months are Best
But actually, fall and winter are the best time of year to get a tattoo. Why? First of all, you and the artist are going to be a lot more comfortable. Although tattoo studios have air conditioning in the summertime, it's hard to keep them cool in a business where doors are constantly being opened. During the winter the studios are much more temperate and it's a lot easier for the artist to concentrate when they don't have to keep wiping beads of sweat from their brow.

Another good reason is to consider the healing. The less exposure your skin gets to the elements, the better off your tattoo will be to heal. Sweat can aggravate a new tattoo and so can the sun. During the winter, your body isn't exposed to these things as much and tattoos can heal much more quickly without as much chance for infection.

Appearance is also a good reason. During the healing process, your tattoo goes through a few "ugly" stages - scabbing, peeling, the works. If you get your tattoo during the colder months, it will be covered up during this healing process and by the time summer rolls around - your artwork will be completely healed and ready to show off!

Waiting time is another thing to consider. The winter is the slower season for most studios, which means you won't have to wait behind a bunch of people to get your artwork done. During the busier season you can wait as much as 2-4 hours while the artists are busy with other customers, or you may even have to get on a waiting list. Artists are not nearly as rushed during this season and it is easier for them to give you their undivided attention.

One Caveat to Keep in Mind
One downside to getting a tattoo in the wintertime is the chance of colds, flu and other viruses. These illnesses can drain your immune system and make it more difficult for your body and art to heal. Not to mention that your artist probably wouldn't appreciate you passing along any germs to them. It is important that you take vitamins and keep yourself healthy, especially if you are considering getting a tattoo during this time of year. If you are showing any signs of illness, wait until you are feeling better before you make your appointment. Vitamins that are known to boost your immune system are C and Zinc. Please consult your doctor and see if these vitamins could be helpful to you.

When summer arrives and you start pulling out your shorts and tank tops again, you'll be all set to show off your new body art!

Should you Tip your Tattoo or Piercing Artist?

By: Karen L. Hudson

To Tip or Not to Tip

If you go to a restaurant, you will more than likely tip your waiter or waitress for good service. You'll tip a bartender, a cab driver, maybe even a delivery person. Have you ever thought, though, of tipping your tattoo artist or piercer? Do they expect a tip? If you do tip, what should it be or how much?

Gratuity for a tattoo or piercing can't really be determined by the percentage rating most use for tipping a restaurant server. Even ten percent of a $200.00 tattoo would be a very substantial amount just to give as a tip. A tip, instead of a percentage, should be based on (1)how much you can afford and (2)how much you feel it is worth. A $5.00 tip would certainly be accepted more graciously than nothing at all.

• "To tip an artist...shows that you thought the artwork you just received was well worth what I    charged and you were happy enough to add a little. It's not requested and it's not required...The words, 'That's kick ass!' mean alot more to me than any tip." - Biscuit, Firehouse Tattoo

It should be noted, though, that it is not necessary, expected or required for you to tip at all. Professionals in this field realize that most people have been saving for quite some time just to get a tattoo or piercing and might not have anything left afterward. What means more to them than a cash tip? Appreciation! When you look at the finished product, thank the artist. Tell them it looks great! Let them know you are happy with the work they did. (Only if this is true, of course!) Tattoo and piercing artists put their heart and soul into what they do - it can be very disappointing to them when a customer looks at it and says, "Eh. It's Okay". If you're really happy with a job well done, let them know it.

Sometimes, a tip doesn't even have to be monetary. If you know your artist well, you can even give them some kind of gift you think they would enjoy. Again, it all comes down to showing appreciation for the work you received. Artists have been given a wide variety of "tips" from t-shirts to sculpture. If you have a specialty in some field yourself, such as car repair, you can even offer a discount or free service of some kind.

Use your imagination - a tip doesn't have to cost you anything at all. If you're really happy with the service you have received, referring your friends to your artist and giving them repeat business can be the best tip of all. Some customers will display the studio's bumper stickers on their cars or hand out their business cards.

• "I think one of the best tips that people can give a shop or an artist that they really like is repeat business or recommending them to friends, family, etc. I have given no completely unusual tip other than [the fact that] I am an avid baker, so I always bring cookies or other goodies when I get pierced or tattooed." - Lilly Blossom, Enthusiast

To sum it all up, you don't have to tip but it is greatly appreciated. You don't have to give a monetary gratuity - a handshake, a "thank you" and your referrals can be worth much more than money. If you want to give cash and you can afford it, your artist certainly won't turn it away. Any way you show your artist you really appreciate the work they did will be a great tip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a Tattoo!

By: Karen L. Hudson

Are Tattoos Safe? Yes, as long as you go to a reputable artist that is following all recommended safety precautions. Find out what these recommendations are by going through the Safety Checklist.

What should I expect when I go to get my tattoo?

Does it hurt? Pain is really relative. Everyone has a different tolerance to pain. I'm not going to kid you, though - it does hurt. Just not that much. Some have compared it to a "hot scratching feeling". But, people would not be returning again and again for tattoo after tattoo if it hurt that bad! Most of us are not into pain, but the beauty of the tattoo and the pride associated with wearing it far outweighs a little pin-stick here and there. For more information and how to deal with your fears, read How Much Does It Really Hurt?

Can I use some kind of numbing cream? These kinds of products are really not recommended.

How much is it going to cost? When it comes to tattoos, you get what you pay for. Yes, there are plenty of people tattooing out there that will ink you cheap, and you'll be crying to a real artist to have it covered up. Look for quality, and be willing to pay for it. NEVER haggle over the price of a tattoo. It is disrespectful to the artist. If you can't pay for quality, don't bother. This is not a bargain bin. It is a piece of art you will wear for life.

Should I tip my tattoo artist? Tipping is a really nice gesture! But, there are no real solid ground rules for tipping, so follow the suggestions at To Tip or Not To Tip.

What should I get? And where? This is all a matter of personal taste. You can get whatever you want, and whatever your artist is willing to do. You can choose a picture off the wall, or you can have them create a custom piece just for you. Your only limit is your own imagination. As far as where you should get it goes, just keep in mind what you do for work and the type of social circles you are in. You might want to consider placing your tattoo where it can be easily covered up with normal clothing.

What is the best time of year to get a tattoo? Although you can get a tattoo any time of the year, your skin gets a lot more abuse during the summer with swimming, tanning and just being exposed to the elements more. Winter time is really the best season to get a tattoo. For more details, see: Tis the Season to be Tattooed.

Is it OK to get a tattoo if I'm sick? Getting a tattoo when your immune system isn't at 100% isn't a good idea. You're going to need your strength and your white blood cells to heal your tattoo, something your body won't be able to do if it's already doing battle against virus and bacteria. Not to mention the fact that it's very inconsiderate to bring your illness into the tattoo studio and risk passing the germs onto others, particularly your artist. If you have an appointment, call and reschedule for when you're feeling well again.

Where can I find pictures of (skull, teddy bear, lion, etc.) tattoos? If you're getting a tattoo, especially as an expression of your individuality, why would you want a tattoo just like someone else's? Instead, find other pictures of what you're looking for and have your artist draw up a custom design for you. Example: If you are wanting a tattoo of a penguin standing on a glacier, find real photos of penguins and glaciers. If you want a tattoo of a blue rose wrapped around a cross, find pictures of real roses and crosses that you like. If the pictures don't show exactly what you want, just take them to your artist to use them as guidelines and tell them what changes you want made to the original pictures. A real artist will welcome the challenge of a custom piece.

SEE: The Most Interesting Celebrity Tattoo

Is it OK to lay out in the sun or go to the tanning bed when you have tattoos? It might be really tempting to get some rays during the summer months, but before you ruin your tattoo, please read this article about Tattoos and Tanning.

I just got a new tattoo on my leg - can I shave? Before you pull out the razor blade, please read this article, When is it Safe to Shave Again?

My friend just bought a tattoo kit and wants to practice on me. Should I let them? NO! Your friend could be putting both of your lives in danger by foolishly trying to learn this at home. Tell them they need to get a proper apprenticeship, and they can start practicing on you when their mentor (master) feels they are ready. If they don't know how to get an apprenticeship.

A Guide to Getting your first tattoo....

By: Karen L. Hudson

So, you've decided to get a new tattoo. That's great! Maybe this is your first, or your fifth, but usually when we go to get inked, we naturally have questions. Especially if this is your first time, I'm sure you have a lot of anxiety over the whole thing, same as I did.

At Tattoo Temple it has been our experience that, irrespective of the amount of research previously completed, numerous technical and emotional questions regarding the tattooing process can remain. Knowing as much as you can will allow you to make informed, educated decisions. When chosen correctly, a tattoo can be a permanent work of art that you will carry with you for the rest of your life. And the only way to make a decision you will be happy with for that length of time is with the right facts and a clear view.

Even the most experienced artists were not born in tattoo studios. Everyone at some time or another has been in your position asking the same questions. Like every person before you there are many facets, tools and systems of a tattoo studio to be learned. A veritable plethora of information about the tattooing process exists and even the heavily tattooed might not fully understand them all. The following pages will address questions about the tattooing process as well as offer a brief introduction to the artists’ world.

Firstly, Tattoo Temple believes that tattooing can and should be a passion. In the same way as your favorite painting, song or movie invokes an emotional response – tattooing in its’ purest form can be the physical manifestation of this highly personal interaction. If you have chosen a tattoo artist who is able to create a unique design then part of your body and by extension you, are essentially turned into a living work of art.

The purpose of this introduction is to clarify the decisions, process and care needed when choosing and receiving a tattoo. The end goal is not only knowing what makes a hygienic studio but also the recognition of genuine tattoo art.

20 Tips For Getting Your First Tattoo

So you're thinking about getting a tattoo...

If you've ever wanted a tattoo, I want to give you some pointers and tattoo design ideas for getting your first tattoo.

1. A tattoo lasts forever. Don't rush into your design decision and end up with a design you will regret. Join some online tattoo galleries to get ideas, and don't make an impulse decision. When in doubt, just slow down a little before you get the actual ink. 

2. If this is going to be your first tattoo, don't go big. Small tattoos can hold just as much personal expression as a large piece. Also, with only a little 'skin in the game', small tattoos are easier to work around later if you have a change of heart and need a cover-up. 

3. If you are underage, or not ready to make the permanent commitment, consider a temporary tattoo. Henna tattoos can give you an idea of how you will feel about your design and will wash off in a month or so. When you join a tattoo design gallery, you can even print out the designs and have them converted to a temporary tattoo to try out.

4. If any of your friends have tattoos, talk to them to get an idea of how getting a tattoo was for them. Ask them questions... How much did it hurt? Who did your tattoo? Was the tattoo shop professional and clean? It's always best to talk to someone you know and trust. 

5. There are some consequences of tattos you may not have known: In some states, to control the spread of hepatitis you cannot donate blood for at least a year after getting a tattoo. There are exceptions to this rule in states that have certain hygyine regulations for the tattoo industry. If you think you may donate blood in the next year, do some homework. 

SEE: 12 of the cutest Disney tattoos 

6. YES,it's going to hurt. And, yes you will also bleed some. (It's worth it though trust me. ;-)) OK, the truth is, most locations aren't really that bad, especially if you're getting a small tattoo. It's also something of a 'good pain'. That is to say, you're enduring it for a special reason. 

7. If you are religious, is getting a tattoo going to be a problem for your faith? For example, tattoos are forbidden for Jews. In fact, if someone with a tattoo converts to Judaism, they can not be buried in a Jewish cemetery unless the tattoo is removed. Some Christians, belive that getting a tattoo is contrary to God's call to honor our bodies, and are against the idea. Again, since tattoos are permanent, think about if there will be religous impacts for you.

8. Tatoos last longer than most relationships, so be wary of putting someone's name in your tattoo. You don't want your tattoo to be a constant reminder and source of heartache if your relationship doesn't last. 

9. Most people, and especially people new to tattoos, should avoid getting tattoos, on their hands, neck, or head and face. In fact, most shops will refuse to do the work unless it is obvious you are already ‘in the tattoo game'.The artist knows the possible negative reaction people may have to tattoos, and placing them in a highly visible spot only increases the possibility. 

The other concern with getting a hand or foot tattoo is the wear and contact that these areas of your body endure. For example, if you work with your hands, that would make a hand tattoo a poor choice. The tattoo will get distorted and would also be highly noticeable. For your feet, make sure you can commit to proper healing processes; eg. a 2-3 month process of being barefoot as much as possible and truly pampering your skin. 

10. Talk with your artist about proper tattoo aftercare. Generally you should keep the tattoo bandaged overnight. Then, gently wash the area the next day. Do not scratch or rub your new tattoo. Once healed, you must use sun protection as much as possible, as the UV light will fade the colors. (This is another important consideration when determining the location of your tattoo.)

SEE:  Awesome Cat Tattoos

11. Relax! Worrying about picking the right design, the unknown level of pain, and whether you will enjoy your tattoo, will only make these negative things come true for you. If you have done your research (reading this page!), then you will know what to expect, and you should be able to relax and enjoy the process.

12. Take something to distract you or keep you entertained. Books, magazines, iPod, and something to drink are all good ideas. Getting a tattoo can take some time, so you want to be comfortable while you are getting inked.

Bringing a snack can also be a good idea to settle your stomach if you get queazy at the thought of needles. If you decide to get a large tattoo, you may also want to take a break and have something to eat.

Finally, bring a friend you supports your decision to get a tattoo. They can help you through the emotions of getting tattooed.

13. If your potential artist is evasive about answering questions, find another artist. As far as it relates to tattoos, a good tattooist will be able to answer any questions you have. They should also be polite and professional. 

14. If your bandage is too sticky to remove the next day, soak it off in warm water. Don't try and rip off a stuck bandage - it might damage the skin, and it will hurt! 

15. NEW, NEW, NEW - Cleanliness is next to godliness when it comes to tattoos. Your shop should be using new pots of ink and new needles (make sure they open the packets in front of you) for every customer. The tattoo instruments themselfes should come straight from the autoclave. Anything less is risking infection. 

SEE:  Awesome Cartoon Character Tattoos 

16. CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN. This means you, the artist, the shop - everything. Make sure you're not sick, and don't skip your morning shower. The artist will be working closely, and you don't want to smell spicy! The artist should also wash his hands, wear gloves, and wipe down the area to be used before you sit down. Make sure the autoclave is working, and that in general, the shop looks clean. While your tattoo is healing, if you must touch it, wash your hands first. 

17. Comparison shop. No, not for price (like most things in life, you will get what you pay for...) But, just to get a vibe or feeling from a couple artists and shops. You should feel comfortable with your artist, afterall, you are going to have your tattoo forever. 

18. Wear comfy clothes. You might need to sit down or lay in the same spot for a couple hours. If you will need to partially undress to expose the area you are getting worked on, wear clothes that make this easy for you and the artist. If you don't want to undress, you can usually lift your shirt or pants partially to reveal the needed area. In general though, tattoo artists work on half naked people everyday, so it's not a gawk fest for them. 

19. Don't drink beforehand. Not only will you regret getting a drunken tattoo, but alcohol acts as a blood thinner, which means you will bleed more than normal, and this will make the artist's job harder. 

20. Think. Think about the design, style, color of your tattoo. Think about the the placement, the artist, and the shop. Do some homework, join a tattoo gallery...but once your are certain, don't second guess yourself. 

SEE:  Ink Master Highlights

Good Luck!

Hope to see you with some ink one day!!!