Here at Adorn Body Art we are committed to working with you to create a beautiful tattoo that you will cherish for a lifetime. In order to facilitate this we have to come up with answers to the most frequently asked questions (FAQ). There are three things essential to getting a quality tattoo:

  • A talented artist
  • A beautiful design
  • State of the art sterilization procedures

In this FAQ we will give you information on choosing a good artist and studio, and address many common questions to assure that your tattoo process is Good Clean Fun. While design questions are too numerous and complex for the scope of this article, our staff is always happy to help. Here at Adorn Body Art we are committed to friendly, personalized attention from beginning to end.

  • How Do I Know If The Tattoo Shop Is Clean?

    Cleanliness is of the utmost importance. Take a look around; do you like what you see? Trust your eyes and your instincts. If you have any doubts run, don’t walk, to the nearest exit. Better safe than sorry. Ask if there is an autoclave on premises and if so, do they spore test? The answer to both questions should be yes and they should be able to show you proof.  The artists supplies should be single-use disposable and the artist should change their gloves frequently during the tattoo process. Smoking, eating and pets should be restricted on the premises. for more information on our sterilization process, check out our Video or read our article on In-House Sterilization Procedures.

  • How Are Tattoos Priced?

    We price our tattoos at roughly $100-150 per hour (industry standard) and have a $70 minimum. Artists prefer payment in cash. We also accept Visa, Mastercard and debit cards. Once we have a drawing, a size and location we can give you a price quote. A quote dictates a price range based on the amount of time/effort we expect your tattoo to take. Quotes are done in studio, not over the phone. Rough estimate quotes may be done by email, but the final quote will still need to be done in house. When determining whether to get a tattoo at one studio or another, price should be the lowest consideration. Good tattoos are are rarely cheap and cheap tattoos are rarely good. See Tattoo Costs.

  • Am I Expected To Tip My Tattoo Artist?

    Tips are appreciated but not expected. They are a service industry standard at 5-25%. For more extensive information on tipping see our article Tips for Tats.

  • Do I Need An Appointment?

    We will be operating as appointment-only for the foreseeable future for all tattoo, piercing and jewelry changing services. No walk-ins allowed.

  • How Old Do You Have To Be To Get Tattooed?

    It is illegal to tattoo anyone under the age of 18 in the state of Oregon. In addition to the mandatory minimum age required by law, we reserve the right to refuse anyone service. Highly visible areas of the body, also known as “job-busters” will be done on a case-by-case basis. We have seen the pain and frustration caused by these tattoos too many times to want to contribute. If we tell you “No”, please understand that it comes from decades of experience and a genuine desire for your long-term happiness. We don’t hate you or your money.

  • Can My Parent Sign For Me?

    No. All tattoo clients must be over the age of 18 and provide valid state or federal issued photo ID.

  • Can I Have A Drink Before I Get Tattooed?

    It is illegal and ill advised to get tattooed while under the influence of alcohol. Contrary to popular belief, alcohol will not make your experience any better. It actually makes the process more difficult for you as well as the artist and raises the risk of complications. Other drugs, including Marijuana, can also have a negative impact on the process.

  • Can I Get Tattooed While Pregnant Or Breast-feeding?

    No. Your body is going through tremendous changes and stress. Getting tattooed while pregnant or breast-feeding can negatively impact either/or your health and that of your baby. It’s simply not worth the risk.

  • Should I Eat Before I Get Tattooed?

    It is ideal to eat a healthy portioned meal within four hours of being tattooed. You don’t want to be starving or stuffed. Having stable blood sugar bolsters your immune system and helps the body deal with the fluctuation of endorphins, which are released during the tattoo process. For long tattoo sessions bring some fruit and trail mix. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and aspirin.

  • Can We Bring Children Into The Shop?

    For the safety of your children and the sanity of our studio we ask that you kindly keep your well-behaved children fully under your control and out of trouble at all times. When it is time for your tattoo we strongly encourage you to get a babysitter. The artist is trying to concentrate and you and the other clients are trying to relax. At the very least, you will need to bring an additional adult to supervise and monitor the child while you are getting tattooed. Particular artists may have greater sensitivity to children in the station. We reserve the right to reschedule you at your own expense if the child poses a problem.

  • What Can I Do To Prepare For My Tattoo?

    Do your homework. Pick the right artist, the right tattoo and the right time in your life (for example: don’t get tattooed the week before you go to a resort with a hot tub.) Happy, healthy people heal better. Getting tattooed when you are sick, post or pre-surgery, or exceptionally stressed out is not ideal. Furthermore, people with compromised immune systems (e.g. diabetes, Hepatitis, HIV) typically take longer to heal. For more information on preparation, see these articles: Pre-service Tattoo Info How to Judge a Portfolio

  • How Long Have Your Artists Been Tattooing?

    Our artists have been tattooing for 5-20+ years. A portfolio, not longevity, is the best judge of an artist’s talent and suitability for your tattoo. Take a thorough look at photographs of work that the artists have accomplished. For more info on how to look at a portfolio look at our article on How to judge a Portfolio. Feel free to ask our counter staff or artists any questions. They will be happy to lead you in the right direction.

  • Can I Bring In My Own Drawing?

    We encourage you to bring in your own artwork or references and ideas that our artists can use to draw you a custom tattoo. A custom tattoo is a tattoo designed with you specifically in mind, made to fit your personal tastes as well as your body shape perfectly. We believe your tattoo should be yours and will not tattoo it on anyone else. Our artist may need to rework your personal drawings based on the drawings’ “tattooability”. Custom tattoos require a deposit as well as time for the artist to draw. The amount of time necessary to draw your tattoo will depend on the scope of the piece as well as how booked the artist is. Once the artist has drawn for you he/she will re-work it, if necessary, until you are satisfied. Your deposit will be applied to the final cost/session of your tattoo. If you choose not to be tattooed or decide to cancel your appointment without sufficient notice, your deposit is considered a drawing fee. For more information look at our article on Image Is Everything.

  • How Big Does My Tattoo Have To Be?

    The size depends on the complexity of the image/text and the area of the body where the tattoo is being placed. In general, tattoos that look big on paper look far smaller in the larger context of your body. We will gladly consult with you to determine the best way to meet your needs and get a tattoo that will survive the test of time.

  • Can You Fix/cover-up A Bad Tattoo I Have?

    Probably. Not every tattoo is an ideal candidate for fixing or covering. Additionally cover-ups require a special skill set and not all artists are good at them. A consult is essential to determine and discuss what imagery is necessary to adequately cover the old work. Consults are free and generally take 10-30minutes to complete. Two of the most frequently covered tattoo designs are gang related and lovers’ names. In consideration of this fact, our artists may choose not to do them. For more information on cover-ups check out our article Out of the Frying Pan, Not into the Fire.

  • Can You Tattoo Over A Scar?

    It depends on the severity and maturity of the scar. This is judged on a case-by-case basis; in general, a scar should be at least one year old. Come in to discuss your options.

  • Does It Hurt?

    Yes. No. Maybe. Pain varies from person to person and from day to day. Most people compare getting a tattoo to the discomfort of scratching a sunburn. Relax, don’t fight it and it will all be over soon… or in a few hours, depending on the size of the tattoo.

  • What Is The Most Painful Place To Be Tattooed?

    Again, pain is subjective and varies from person to person. Do not choose an area or a size based on the pain factor. The beauty of the tattoo will last for decades longer than the brief period of discomfort it takes to complete the tattoo.

  • What If I’m Allergic To Latex?

    In general, it is important to inform your artist of any allergies or medical conditions. Nitrile gloves are the industry standard for the tattoo procedure. Use of latex gloves for the tattoo procedure is antiquated and unsafe and a strong indication that you should choose another studio.

  • How Do I Take Care Of My Tattoo?

    Listen to your artist! Not your buddy, not your mailman, not your uncle Bob. Your artist is the expert and they are invested in your healing their work properly so that the resulting healed tattoo is something that makes you both proud. See more information on Tattoo Aftercare.

  • How Long Can I Expect My Tattoo To Take To Heal?

    Tattoos when cared for properly takes approximately around 3 weeks to initially heal. After 3 weeks you should be able to resume normal activities (swimming, gym, etc.) It takes a couple months for full healing.Tattoos when cared for properly takes approximately around 3 weeks to initially heal. After 3 weeks you should be able to resume normal activities (swimming, gym, etc.) It takes a couple months for full healing.

  • What Area Of The Body Is Hardest To Heal?

    Blood flow is an integral part of the healing process so the closer to the heart the better the healing. Healing of the lower legs and feet can take longer based on that fact. Another significant factor in healing is friction. Tattoos on the torso where clothing constricts and where pivotal movement is constant can lead to longer heal times and complications. Areas of the body with natural seams, like elbows and knees can have a harder time healing as well.

  • Is It Normal For My New Tattoo To Scab?

    Scabbing, flaking, peeling, dryness and a hazy appearance are all natural parts of the healing process. However, severe scabs that are deep and thick may indicate a need to change your aftercare routine and should be addressed with your tattoo artist.

  • Can I Tan?

    Stay out of the sun and tanning booths, especially during the healing process. Any form of tanning can and will damage and fade a tattoo. If you are a sun worshiper, we recommend a SPF 30+ sun block for life.

  • What Happens If My Tattoo Gets Infected?

    More often than not, what you perceive as an infection is actually an irritation. Allergic reactions or infections are extremely rare. If you think there is an issue, please come speak with your artist. If there is an actual infection, a physician will help you get healthy.

  • Do You Do Free Touch-ups?

    90% of the time our artists will continue to touch-up their work for as long as you can find them. (That is not true of every studio!) Hands, feet and neck tattoos are exceptions to the touch-up policy. With those areas of the body you get one free touch-up within the first year. Other exceptions to receiving a free touch-up include setting and then blowing off your touch-up appointment or blatant disregard of proper tattoo aftercare. Simply put, disregarding the importance of your artists’ time and advice disqualifies you from free touch-ups. If your behavior has fallen under the disrespectful category your future appointments may require gifts, money and/or apologies. It is also important to note that most tattoos do not require a touch-up! If you think you need one or are unsure, simply drop by the studio and ask your artist.

  • What If I Don't Like It?

    Tattoo removal is still a painful, expensive and imperfect process. It is best to circumvent the need for tattoo removal by choosing your artist and design wisely and then taking care of it diligently. Remember, a little extra time planning will save a lot of time regretting. You want to be sure you are getting a tattoo that you will be happy with for the rest of your life. If even with the best of planning and intentions the end result is still not perfect come back to the studio to discuss your options.

  • Cancellation Policy

    Deposits are applied to the cost of your tattoo with the following conditions. • Deposits are non-refundable. If you cancel your appointment you may receive a copy of your drawing or reference material but not your deposit. • 24hr Notice is required to change appointments. Without at least 24hr notice your deposit is forfeit. 48hrs or more notice is strongly preferred. • Clients arriving 30 minutes late will forfeit their appointment time and their deposit. A new deposit will be required to set another appointment. • Arrange to review custom drawings at least 24hrs prior to your appointment to allow time for necessary changes. • Appointments longer than 2hours will likely require a larger than $70 deposit to assure your space.

If you have any further questions, please call, email or drop by the studio and we will gladly assist you.

These are some of the most common questions that we are asked. If you don’t see the answer you are looking for here, please don’t hesitate to drop by, call or email us at the studio.

  • Do You Take Appointments?

    We operate by appointment only, Schedule today!

  • How Much Does A Piercing Cost?

    The cost is broken into two parts: the fee for the procedure and the cost of the jewelry.  Piercing fees average $35-$40.  Specialty level I and II piercings require separate licensing and have an additional service charge, averaging between $80-$100.  Jewelry costs start at $20-$30+ and increase from there depending on your taste and budget.  Adorn has the finest custom jewelers in the world making exquisite pieces in gold and platinum with genuine diamonds and sapphires and rubies as well as solid, top of the line reputable American-made implant grade titanium options to suit every budget and style.  For a more detailed look at piercing prices click the link or drop by the studio to look at the jewelry selection. See our piercing price list.

  • Why Is It So Expensive?

    We have made a commitment to using only the top-of-the-line, American-made, implant-grade jewelry. Our jewelry is all manufactured in state-of-the-art facilities by trained, inspected and compensated adult workers. It is a matter of health and safety and a support of the local economy. We want your piercing to heal with as little risk of problems as possible. Cheaply made jewelry, bargain-priced services and lack of professional expertise often results in the following problems: poor/impossible healing, hyper-pigmented scars, allergic reactions, excessive scarring, migration, rejection, irritation, infection, etc. Then there is the jewelry. Our manufactures proudly represent their impressive names and reputations by their superior products. They stand behind the quality of their jewelry even if there is ever a problem regarding repair or replacement. Cheap imported jewelry does not stand up over time and is not guaranteed when gems fall out, components break or threads fail. Our jewelry is guaranteed for life against manufacturing defects. After years of experience in the industry, we have found that the cost of cheap jewelry/piercings is a short-term saving with a heavier price to pay in the end.

  • Does It Hurt?

    The single most common exclamation post piercing is a joyous “That wasn‘t as bad as I expected!”  Each of us has a different tolerance and response to pain that is primarily determined by our attitude. Even if you can’t shake the pre-piercing jitters, the quick pinch/pressure of a piercing is over almost immediately. By the time you see how awesome your new jewelry looks, you’ll forget all about it.  Stop allowing fear to hold you back…Live your life NOW! On the related subject: Pain killers will not help, nor are they necessary. We are not legally able to tattoo or pierce anyone under the influence. Check out this article on swearing and pain.

  • How Old Do I Have To Be To Get A Piercing/Stretched?

    Individuals 18 and over can make independent piercing/stretching decisions. If you are under 18, you will need a verifiable parent or legal guardian present at time of piercing/stretching to sign documentation.  All parties will need to provide proper state or federal photographic identification with date of birth. (Simple jewelry changes such as gem size or color may be provided without parental consent.) Additional criteria and restrictions to what can and cannot be safely pierced are based loosely on actual age and more specifically on levels of physical and emotional maturation and lifestyle in combination with the different professional piercers ideologies and comfort zones with regards to minors. It is best to call or drop by adorn to determine the best timing for your minor piercings. Adorn does not perform infant ear-piercing or any piercings on clients who cannot have a discussion about the care and consequences of piercings and give informed consent. Click here to read more about infant/child piercing.

  • Can I Get Pierced While Pregnant/Nursing?

    We do not pierce anyone who is pregnant or nursing.  Your system is under tremendous stress from dramatic changes that leave you and your baby susceptible to increased risks of infection, allergic reaction and/or rejection.   It is best to wait until you are finished nursing before considering a new tattoo or piercing.  On a brighter note, if you already have a piercing that is healed and comfortable there is rarely a medical reason to take out your jewelry.  There are flexible jewelry alternatives available if as your pregnancy progresses any problems with fit or comfort arise.

  • Will You Pierce My Infant?

    We agree with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) who recommends waiting until a child is old enough to take care of the piercing his/herself.  Additionally, while we respect that many cultures have a tradition of infant ear piercing we have chosen to honor the rights of the individual over those of society. Consequently, we prefer to not perform any piercing on anyone who cannot engage in some sort conversation about the risks and benefits.  This age of reason seems to occur around 6 yrs of age for most children. Read more about basic ear piercing for your children and kids.

  • How Long Does A Piercing Take To Heal?

    Different individuals and different piercings have different heal times. These times represent an average first stage of healing; actual healing can take well over a year. Even if your piercing is no longer swollen or tender it is not necessarily healed. Most of what people consider healed is far from it. Not even Superman could heal a piercing in two weeks. It is best to come to Adorn and see a piercer if you are unsure about your current stage of healing.

  • Why Can’t I Touch My Piercings In The Studio?

    Even fully-healed piercings secrete substances specific to your body than can create a health and safety risk to others you expose. We aren’t trying to say you are dirty, but… well, you are dirty. We all are!  What we are truly saying: “We care about your well-being and that of the clients who will come after you.”   You wouldn’t share your chewing gum with a stranger so please don’t take your tongue piercing out of your mouth and put it on the counter.  We will gladly take care of everything.  Just let us know what you would like with your words and not with your hands. And if we do have to ask you to use the hand-sanitizer you do not have to feel embarrassed or admonished… You are not the first nor the last, and we aren’t judging but we have to protect you. That’s our job. Read our article on touching.

  • Should I Twist Or Rotate The Jewelry During The Healing Period?

    Twisting came into popular lore from ear piercing guns that use blunt force trauma to put inadequately sized, improperly designed jewelry of dubious metal quality into jagged and brutally formed “holes”. Professional piercings provide little to no risk of adhering because the jewelry is implant-grade properly polished mirror smooth and custom sized to be of appropriate length to your specific anatomy. There is nothing to gain from twisting, in fact, rotating the jewelry increases your risk of infection, rejection and scarring dramatically and therefore increases healing time. Hands off for better healing!

  • Should I Use Peroxide, Bactine, Anti-bacterial Soap, Neosporin Etc.?

    NO! Chemicals most often cause more damage than good and increase the likelihood of complications.  The only thing you should clean your actual piercing with is a spray can of sterile saline. Feel free to jump on over to the aftercare section for more detailed information.

  • Can I Start With A Ring?

    Yes and No.  Whatever your ultimate jewelry choice is your piercer can discuss any and all questions you have regarding proper jewelry size and placement. It is important you let them know what your goals are and then trust them to guide you on the best way to get there. Even if we are telling you something you don’t want to hear, it will always be based on our professional experience with your best interests in mind. Some facts to consider when starting with a ring:

    1. Rings are more likely to get bumped and snagged.
    2. Physical injuries set back healing and can create some unsightly scarring.
    3. Initial piercings require jewelry that will allow your body to swell. Barbell posts are just slightly longer – with rings the entire diameter gets bigger.  This creates a look that is not as snug as current American fashion prefers.
  • Why Do I Have To Have A Bead On My Ring?

    The captive or threaded bead provides a gentle stop to the jewelry which prevents excessive spinning and also smoothes out edges that could harbor bacteria or irritate fragile tissue. The bead also provides a visual clue and reassurance that the piercing remains fully intact. The minute gap in the continuous/seam/infinity rings can be irritating to piercings and has the added potential of lodging in your piercing and allowing a disconnected channel – effectively rendering your piercing incomplete and necessitating abandonment or re-piercing. There is an array of beautiful jewelry awaiting you once you are properly healed.

  • How Long Should I Wear My Jewelry?


    The appropriate time for changing jewelry varies depending on what you get and how well you take care of it. (For instance, if you sleep on your piercing it will likely take longer than average time to heal and subsequently lengthen the amount of time before jewelry can be changed or removed.) Unless your jewelry change is prompted by a healing issue it is best to wait and err on the side of caution. We have put together a list of piercings and their average heal times here to use as a guide. It is always advisable to have the first few jewelry changes done professionally and to wait a minimum of 6 months before doing changes independently. Come in to see Adorn for a quick post-piercing check-up. We will gladly help you determine your readiness to switch and go over some of the long-term care considerations that will keep your piercing happy for the long haul.

  • Can I Sleep On It?

    Ideally NOT. This is especially true for ear cartilage piercings. Sleeping on piercings can be painful and cause healing complications. Even without pain it is likely that sleeping on a piercing will result in unsightly scarring. Often the weight of the body on the jewelry will cause it to move the piercing into a crooked an unflattering position. This shifting out of alignment is especially problematic in cases of multiple or paired piercings, leaving them unflattering and imbalanced.  Do your best to stay off your piercing. Try using the opening gap of a travel pillow to frame your piercing and eliminate some of the direct pressure. If problems still arise come in sooner rather than later so we can help guide you to a solution.

  • Can I Go Swimming?

    Sorry but NO.  Lakes, rivers, oceans, bays, streams, creeks, pools, puddles hot tubs and even bathtubs (but not showers! Please shower!) are all to be avoided. Chemicals in treated water can irritate piercings and still leave them open to infection. The many and varied bacterial strains in our untreated water sources make infections imminent and difficult to treat. Even baths are suspect as they are often shared with other dirty humans and soap or cleaning chemical residue can be irritating. We suggest not swimming or soaking until you are healed.  Waterproof bandages may provide some level of protection if swimming is unavoidable. Bandages are not infallible, use at your discretion. Read about Portland’s water quality.

  • Can I Eat/talk Normally After Getting A New Oral Piercing (Tongue, Lip, Cheeks)?

    It takes a little time to adjust but you can do it! We suggest that you stay away from extremely spicy, acidic, or salty foods for the first week.  Sipping ice water will help minimize swelling which will make speech and eating easier. Inebriation of any sort will make you more likely to bite down on it causing healing complications and potentially major dental expen$es. Eat slowly and deliberately being careful to avoid biting down on the metal jewelry and doing damage to your teeth! Last but not least: SHORTEN your jewelry as soon as swelling allows. Downsizing guidelines are in your aftercare instructions. Read more about piercing aftercare.

  • I Am Going On Vacation Is It A Good Idea To Get Pierced?

    It is important to factor in personal, family/social and employment concerns when deciding to get pierced. Do you really want to spend your trip pampering a potentially problematic piercing?! We say NO… Go enjoy yourself! Go swim. Go hike. Go play. Get pierced when you are home and have access to a professional piercer and/or medical care if complications occur.  Whether it’s a family reunion, spring break, or rugby season: There is a time for everything! Discuss your concerns with your piercer to find the timing that is best for your situation.

  • Will My Involvement In Sports Affect My Piercing?

    Most authorities have specific and variously enforced rules about piercing jewelry being worn during practice and games. While some of these restrictions are unnecessary and even arbitrary, rules are rules. Find out the guidelines to which you will be subject before deciding to get pierced. It is ideal to be fully healed prior to the start of your sports season as removal of jewelry even for short periods can cause complications from mild to severe. There are various options and forms of jewelry available for making piercings less visible. Drop by Adorn and we can discuss all the pros and cons and make an educated decision together.

  • How Can I Hide My Piercing From My Grandma/boss/referee?

    We’ve got everything from clear glass retainers to titanium ends that resemble freckles. Nothing will make your piercing completely disappear but we can get pretty darn close. Your specific choices will depend on the type of piercing and how far along it is in the healing process.  Your piercer will help you weigh out the strengths and weaknesses of the options for making your piercings more discreet.

  • How Soon Can I Stretch My Piercing?

    Self-stretching without proper training, tools and support results in massive injuries and necessitates countless plastic surgeries every year. Every body is different and many factors (including hydration) affect how readily you can stretch to the next size. In the smaller gauges (16-10g), 2-3 months is usually an adequate amount of time between sizes. In the larger sizes (7/16-1” and beyond) as many as 6 months may be necessary and the ideal method of stretching is taping NOT tapering. It is best have our piercer determine your readiness and provide assistance and/or advice before stretching.

  • Can I Stretch My Piercing With Wood, Bone Or Silicone?

    While it is an honored tradition in many cultures to stretch with materials ranging from buffalo horn to walrus tusk it is not a practice favored in modern society. The potential complications far outweigh the benefits. Borosilicate glass, or implant grade metals such as titanium or stainless steel are superior modern material options that minimize unnecessary risks. Additionally, please, never ever ever wear or use acrylic jewelry or tapers in your piercing.

  • How Do I Remove My Jewelry?

    Different jewelry styles work in different ways. Some thread, some use pressure, some twist some pull, some snap. For example, view our extensive selection of styles and types and hints and tips on how to use them look at the Jewelry section of the website or come in for a tutorial. We are happy to show you all the styles and how they work and answer any questions. We are also happy to install and remove most anything so please don’t hurt yourselves or your piercings trying to do it alone.

  • What Do I Do If I Think I Have An Infection, Or Allergic Reaction?

    Often times what people think of as an infection is simply irritation. Left unchecked, an irritation can lead to in infection. If your piercing is not 100% come into the studio and let us look at it. If there is intense redness, heat, dark or odorous discharge or pain, seek a professional medical doctor without delay. Important: Bacteria causes infection, not piercings or jewelry. Removing jewelry closes piercings and seals infectious waste in the body. It is counterproductive to actually treating infection but that does not stop some healthcare workers from allowing personal prejudice to affect professional judgment.

  • There’s Something Wrong With My Piercing. What Should I Do?

    Come by the studio at your earliest possible convenience to discuss your situation and options for putting your healing back on track. Call or email for help if an immediate trip to the studio is not possible. Either way, do not take advice from your BF, your well-intentioned Uncle Joe or the mixed bag of “experts” that are found on Google and YouTube. And please do not ignore the problem. Come on in we will be happy to help.

  • I Have Surgery/MRI Scheduled, Do I Need To Remove My Jewelry?

    There are some legitimate and not-so-legitimate concerns with wearing jewelry during a medical procedure. If the jewelry is in the actual surgery or image site then it makes perfect sense to remove it. If the jewelry is not in the way then it becomes a matter of professional/personal discretion and bias. We carry copies of the Association of Professional Piercers pamphlet geared towards assisting you in making an informed decision in cooperation with your healthcare provider. Also see this piercing troubleshooting brochure. Stop by the studio and we can tailor options for maintaining the health of your piercing during and after your medical procedure.

  • Is It Safe?

    While we cannot guarantee absolute safety, you can rest at ease knowing that every aspect of your care has been considered and measures have been put in place for your well-being. The risks associated with body piercing include but are not limited to: Irritation, allergic reaction, infection, scaring, migration, and even rejection. All these risks can be minimized by choosing a professionally trained piercer in a clean studio with proper quality jewelry. That is why we have gone above and beyond all state, federal and industry standards for sterility, jewelry quality and continuing education.

  • Do You Do ________________? (Insert Body Modification Of Choice –scarification, Branding, Tongue-splitting, Magnets, Ear Pinning, Ear Cutting, Ear Shaping, Implants, Suspension)

    Anything that requires a tool other than a needle used to insert visible jewelry into flesh is beyond our scope. We are licensed to perform professional body piercing services. It is important when researching these other procedures that you do your homework. Ask around and get the proper contacts and referrals, look at portfolios, etc. Not all artists/practitioners are created equal and hastily chosen work can turn out disastrous. Be prepared to dig. These underground tribal networks are not always the quickest to trust strangers and neither should you.Hopefully, we have covered all your questions here, but if not… COME ON BY! We look forward to seeing you!

Hopefully, we have covered all your questions here, but if not… COME ON BY! We look forward to seeing you!

  • What is cosmetic tattooing?

    Cosmetic tattooing or permanent makeup (also known as semi-permanent makeup or micropigmentation) is a technique similar to tattooing, in which a needle is used to place pigmented granules beneath the upper dermis or first layers of skin. Cosmetic tattooing is soft and subtle, and is meant to be a natural-looking beauty enhancement.

  • How long does a cosmetic tattoo last?

    Cosmetic tattooing is considered semi-permanent and will not wash off. However, it will fade over time and may need a touch-up every 1-2 years, likely to completely dissipate after 3 years.

    Touch-ups are normal for cosmetic tattoo procedures, with each new procedure requiring 2 visits. The initial procedure followed by a touch-up procedure 6-8 weeks later. Both visits are included in the initial cost and it is recommend to schedule your touch up during your first session. With most procedures, the color looks dramatically lighter after the first week. Some clients prefer this, while others opt for a bolder look. At the second treatment, we will assess the color retention and make adjustments as necessary. Everyone heals differently and at different rates. If your cosmetic tattoo does not heal perfectly the first time, do not worry! We can always go darker and add more density at your next appointment.
    Previously tattooed eyebrows may require additional appointments and rarely achieve similar results to those who have no previous tattoo work. Additional services are offered at a lower cost within the first two years of your cosmetic tattoo if you feel that it may need just a little bit of extra love after the 8 week period.
    Permanent makeup is designed to fade over time. All of this can make it sound a little not worth it. But honestly, fading is desired as it allows alterations to color and shape over the years while your natural coloration, facial structure, and fashion trends change.

  • How much does permanent makeup cost?

    The answer depends on the desired procedure(s), as well as the quality of the studio and experience of the artist. When you’re shopping for something as long-lasting as permanent makeup, you want to look at more than just price. Consider how long the studio has been operating, the education and experience level of the artist, client reviews and testimonials, proper sterilization, and good equipment. Remember, you get what you pay for. It can save you a lot of money and embarrassment to do it right the first time. All pricing is listed here.

  • Does it hurt?

    To ensure the most comfortable experience possible, topical anesthetics developed for permanent makeup procedures are applied to the area before and during the procedure. Some people describe a ‘tingling’ feeling, while others describe some discomfort. It all depends on the procedure and your particular tolerance level. We do hear often that there was not as much discomfort as expected.

  • How long does it take?

    The average appointment takes 2 hours and 30 minutes. Numbing and mapping the area takes a majority of this time, while actual tattooing takes about 45 minutes.

  • What are the pigments made of?

    I use the highest grade, pharmaceutical iron-oxide based pigments. While the FDA does not regulate colors, permanent cosmetics are considered generally very safe and adverse reactions are rare.

  • Can you cover "Old school" tattooed brows?

    In some cases, we can revive traditionally tattooed eyebrows. Cover-ups depend on the current color, age of the previous tattoo, and scar tissue. Scar tissue does tend to reject pigment. In a lot of cases, there is a great chance microblading will not hold.

    Previously pink or orange tattooed eyebrows have a better chance for coverage, but still can look pretty solid depending on each individuals skin. Darker, previously tattooed eyebrows are harder to cover because the hair strokes applied disappear into the previous tattoo. Think of this like drawing on black paper with a black pen. You wont see much. If the issue is to adjust the color from blue back to brown, we CAN color correct. We can also make them thicker but they will always be solid where the old tattoo exists.

    If you need cover up work, please email me for a consultation. If you are unable to schedule an in-person consultation, please send photos so I can do my best to assess to your eyebrow.

  • What factors will affect my cosmetic tattoo?

    Sun exposure:
    UV rays fade pigment faster. Sun block may be used to prolong your enhancement, despite the natural deterioration of the pigment.

    Color:
    Some colors fade quicker than others. A blonde color will fade quicker than a dark brown color.
    The area of treatment:
    For example: Enhancements to the face fade more quickly due to constant exposure.

    Natural body functions:
    The longer it takes for your body to regeneration new cells, the longer the pigment holds. Your body will also absorb the pigment over time. The slower the absorption, the longer the pigment will hold.

  • What should I do before my procedure?

    For eyebrows: If you have an ideal shape and color in mind, bring a few reference photos with you to your appointment. If you regularly get your eyebrows shaped, waxed, threaded or tinted, please let me know. If there are any stray hairs that fall outside of our final shape, we can remove them. You may fill-in your eyebrows prior to your appointment if you wish so we can get a sense of what your daily makeup routine is like. If you plan to go on a vacation, it is recommended to plan your trip a minimum of 14 days after the procedure. We also request our clients avoid prescription blood thinners (if possible) for 24 hours prior to their appointment. This also includes Vitamin E, aspirin, and alcohol.

  • How will I look immediately after? What is the healing process?

    Your semi-permanent makeup will appear darker and bigger than expected for the first few days. This will gradually lighten during the complete healing process. Please view my aftercare instructions for details about the healing process.

  • How will my cosmetic tattoo look in the future?

    During your appointment, we will analyze your skin’s undertone to anticipate how pigment colors will fade in the future. We will also mix pigments to ensure color remains in the same tone. The majority of cosmetic tattoos stay true to color. There are some cases, however, where colors may fade to different tones according to the individual’s response to the pigments. Many factors affect these changes. At your follow up appointment, we will analyze how your body has responded to the initial color. Special formula alterations to correct the color and to prevent further color change is made at this time.

  • Future medical procedures and their relevancy:

    If you are planning a chemical peel, MRI, or other medical procedure, please inform the technician that you have had an iron-oxide cosmetic tattoo. Careful application must be taken to avoid affecting the tattooed area.
    If you are planning to have laser treatments, tell your laser specialist to avoid the pigmented area. Laser may cause pigment to turn black.