What should I do to prepare for my tattoo?
Eat a solid meal the day of your appointment and stay hydrated, and make sure to steer clear of alcohol and blood thinners the day before. Feel free to bring snacks and a drink to your appointment, or take advantage of the water, tea, and coffee we offer at the shop. Make sure you're wearing something comfortable as well, while keeping your tattoo placement in mind (e.g. if you're getting a thigh tattoo, wear shorts).
Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?
It is required by Illinois state law that clients provide a VALID ID in order to get tattooed. Acceptable forms of IDs are a valid passport, state ID, or driver's license. It must be the physical copy, we cannot accept pictures or photocopies of your ID.
Can I bring a guest with me?
Yes! You are allowed a maximum of two guests. Please be respectful, if at any point your guests are affecting my ability to tattoo they will be asked to leave.
Can I get tattooed as a minor with parental consent?
No. Minors cannot be tattooed regardless of consent in the state of Illinois.
Can I go swimming/tanning with my new tattoo?
No and no. You can shower with your new tattoo, but do not soak it for the next 2-3 weeks until it is fully healed. A tattoo is still an open wound and entering a pool, hot tub, or lake can allow harmful bacteria to enter your body. Same goes for tanning. Sunburn on an open wound is not going to feel good, and UV rays will make your tattoos fade out faster with time.
Is your ink vegan?
Yes, they are vegan. The brands I use are Allegory and Industry inks.
Do you do coverups?
Usually no. My style is too light to effectively cover anything that is highly saturated/dark. I also just do not have a good eye for coming up with coverup designs. I highly recommend getting your tattooed or lightened before pursuing a coverup with me.
Can you tattoo over scars?
Yes, as long as the scars are fully healed (at least 1 year old). Depending on the scar and your skin, it may affect how your tattoo heals and touchups may be needed but it varies person to person.
Can I use numbing cream?
As long as you give me a heads up, yes! Keep in mind that in some cases, numbing cream can affect your skin and make it harder to tattoo, and may affect how your tattoo heals. Touchups may be needed, but it varies from person to person.
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In order for numbing cream to be most effective, apply a thick, generous layer to the area an hour before your appointment and wrap it up tightly in saran wrap. Keep it on until you arrive at the studio and I will remove it for you before tattooing.
I have _____ skin condition. Can I still get tattooed?
I'm no doctor, so it is best to consult with a dermatologist before getting tattooed. If they give the go ahead, I'm all for it!
How do fine line tattoos really heal?
This is a tricky question since there are so many variables that can affect your tattoo. The reality is that the modern day fine line style hasn't been around long enough for us to know how it will look 10 years down the line. It definitely tends to fade faster than bolder styles such as American traditional and neotraditional, and will require a bit of maintenance over the years. I do also have a "healed" highlight on my Instagram @mae.tattoo if you'd like to see how my work has healed.
If you choose to get a fine line tattoo, sunscreen is going to be your best friend as UV rays are extremely damaging to your skin and tattoos. Touchups can also help maintain the original look of your tattoo. My personal opinion on this is that I'd rather have a tattoo that I love for 5 years, than to have a tattoo that I hate for 10 years.
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The tattoo industry is rapidly changing and so many new styles/techniques are popping up that it's hard to tell exactly how it will look when you're old and wrinkly. Life is short, just get the tattoo.
Can I see my tattoo design before the appointment?
Unfortunately not. I typically don't draw designs until a few days before your appointment, and even then I don't share designs prior to the appointment due to previous cases of art theft. I follow the information in your booking form very closely, so as long as the information in your form was accurate, it's very rare that there is an issue with the design. There will also be time day of to make tweaks and changes if needed.
I have an idea for a tattoo, can you draw it for me so I can see if I like it?
No, I do not draw designs unless you have an appointment with me.