Frequently Asked Questions | Artistic Impressions Tattoo

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Do tattoos hurt?

The short answer is: yes, there is some pain involved in getting tattooed. Different people handle pain differently, so the amount of pain will depend on your pain tolerance. The pain level of a tattoo will also vary greatly depending on its' location on the body. Some areas of the body are more painful when it comes to tattooing. While your pain tolerance should be something that you consider, remember that the pain is only temporary, and getting your tattoo where you want it will ensure that you will be happiest with your tattoo in the long run.

How old do you have to be to get a tattoo?

In the state of Texas, you must be at least 18 years old to get a tattoo. For more information, please see the State Law in its entirety here: www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/HS/htm/HS.146.htm

How do I go about finding the right tattoo artist?

It is essential to take your time when looking for a tattoo artist. The best way to start your search is to begin by visiting shops and looking at artist portfolios. Make sure that you are comfortable with the cleanliness of the shop, and with the artist himself. Every tattoo artist will have their style of tattooing, so look for artists who portray a similar style to what you are looking to get in your tattoo. Once you have narrowed down your search and chose an artist, a consultation would be the next step. At Artistic Impressions, consultations are free. It is best to do this in person so that you can show the artist any photo references and discuss your wishes with them. Once you have had a consultation, if you choose to proceed with your tattoo, you can book your tattoo appointment at that time. To schedule an appointment, an artist will require a deposit to hold your time. Appointment deposits will vary depending on the project, but will generally be between $60 and $200. Deposits are non-refundable, but appointments will be rescheduled, as long as you give the artist at least 24 hours notice.

How much do tattoos cost?

Tattoo costs can vary greatly. In general, most tattoo artists will charge by the hour. At Artistic Impressions, we have a shop minimum of $100, and our artists charge $180 per hour for anything that takes an hour or longer. Tattoo estimates must be given in person, as there are many factors that an artist has to consider when giving a quote. Remember, a tattoo is permanent. Consider your tattoo as an investment, and take your time to choose the right artist for your project. It is better to save up for a piece that you will be happy with for years to come to avoid the possibility of a costly cover-up in the future.

How do I care for a new tattoo?

Following proper tattoo aftercare is very important to ensure that your tattoo heals well and looks great once it is fully healed. We will give you full aftercare instructions verbally and in writing when you receive your tattoo. It is essential to follow your artist's recommendations for proper healing.

Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Do tattoos fade?

A few things to consider when concerned with your tattoo fading: There are multiple factors involved with tattoos fading or longevity. In short, yes, tattoos do fade with time. However, taking proper care of your tattoo during the healing stages will increase the chances of how well your tattoo will look over time. (Check out this page for instructions>HERE) A tattoo artist will only be able to put the symbol on you. Once that is done, it is up to you to help its longevity from there. A common factor for tattoos fading is exposure to sunlight. Ultraviolet rays lighten tattoo pigment. Think about something that sits out in the sunshine all day. Think about a road sign or a building's artwork on a wall, perhaps. All of those things will eventually have its pigments and colors penetrated by the sun, and will subsequently lighten those pigments over time. Another reason tattoos fade is because that is what the substrate does naturally. The pigment injected into the dermis slowly starts to separate with time. The separation of the compacted pigments in a new tattoo eventually will look lighter with time. Over time the pigment will separate so much; it will be lightened in appearance. When you think about these common factors all at once, the longevity of a tattoo is very dependent on a person's care, and lifestyle. For example: If you are a person who:

Gets a lot of sun exposure
Tans often
Works out in the open sun regularly
Someone who neglects their fresh tattoo the following day it was done
Someone who doesn't take excellent care of their skin regularly

You might end up having a symbol that will fade more quickly. If you are a person who:

Gets very little sunlight exposure
Does not tan
Takes excellent care of their tattoo during the healing process
Takes good care of their skin regularly,

Your tattoo will last much longer than expected.

Could my new tattoo be infected?

If you believe that your tattoo could be infected, you need to come to the studio in person as soon as possible so that your artist can take a look at it. He will be able to give you further instructions, should it be necessary.

If you are unable to come to the studio in person, you can always seek the advice of a healthcare practitioner. Any diagnosed infection, allergic reaction, or adverse reaction resulting from the tattoo should be reported as soon as possible to the artist and the Texas Department of State Health Services, Drugs & Medical Devices Group at 1-888-839-6676.

Do body piercings hurt?

A body piercings pain level is relative to an individual's pain tolerance level. I would say it is very comparable to a tight pinch sensation. Piercings have varying pain levels, depending on placement. The positive note is that body piercings only take a second or two to execute, so it generally is over before you know it.

I am a minor, can I get a piercing?

If you are under 18, state law requires that your parent or legal guardian be present during the entire procedure. Both the minor and the parent/legal guardian must have a photo ID, and we require a copy of the Birth Certificate. Parents or Legal Guardians must present a government-issued ID. If the minor is under the care of a legal guardian other than a biological parent, we will need a copy of court papers showing guardianship. We do not pierce the ears of babies.

For facial piercings, we require minors to be at least 14 years of age.

Our piercers will NOT perform genital or nipple piercings on minors.

Do you use piercing “guns”?

No, our piercers only use single-use, hollow point needles, and appropriate body jewelry for every piercing.

How much do piercings cost?

Please see our complete list of piercing prices here: Piercing Pricing

How do I care for my new piercings?

Your piercer will give you complete aftercare instructions verbally and in writing upon the completion of your piercing.

Piercing Aftercare Instructions

How long will it take for my piercing to heal?

Everyone heals at a different rate, so it is essential to be patient and allow a new piercing to recover fully. In general, jewelry can be changed after about 6 to 8 weeks. Piercings usually take at least 6 to 9 months to fully and completely heal, however. Removing jewelry can result in the hole closing up within hours.

I think my piercing in infected. What should I do?

The best thing is to see one of our piercers as soon as possible so that they can take a look at the piercing and recommend other aftercare.

If you are unable to come to the studio in person, you can always seek the advice of a healthcare practitioner. Any diagnosed infection, allergic reaction, or adverse reaction resulting from the piercing should be reported as soon as possible to the artist and the Texas Department of State Health Services, Drugs & Medical Devices Group at 1-888-839-6676.