FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
If you have questions about your tattoo that are not answered in the FAQ below, please reach out via my contact form HERE.
How much do you charge?
My current rate for both custom and flash tattoos is $225/hour and a $100 deposit is typically required to schedule your appointment. The deposit pays for my at-home drawing time, protects me against last-minute cancellations, and gets deducted from the final cost once your tattoo is complete. More info on custom tattoo page.
How can I book an appointment?
If you are looking to get a custom design tattooed, please refer to the custom tattoo page for information. For flash / pre-drawn designs you may contact Altar Sacred Tattoo directly and schedule your appointment. $100 deposit required.
What are the cancellation / rescheduling / refund policies?
Deposits are non-refundable, but can be transferred to other appointments if you need to reschedule. Please give 48 hours notice by contacting Altar Sacred Tattoo to reschedule your appointment.
What if I want to change my design?
If you would like to change or update your tattoo idea, please notify Altar Tattoo at least 1 week before your appointment if possible. (I can usually accommodate small design changes the day of your appointment.)
When will I see my design?
I do not send out sketches of designs ahead of your appointment time. You will see your tattoo design at the beginning of your appointment so we can do an art-review before moving forward with the process. I always make sure to schedule extra time during your appointment in case we need to make any small, last-minute design changes or alterations. (Large-scale changes or re-drawing of the entire design may require a new appointment and deposit depending on size.)
What / Who can I bring to my appointment?
You are welcome to bring a friend or family member to your appointment, as long as they are over 18. The shop is small and doesn't have seating room for multiple guests. No children or pets please!
What is the privacy situation in the shop?
I currently tattoo in a private room which is great for sensitive tattoo placements or your personal preference. I normally keep the door open for air-flow but f you would like the door closed for more privacy, just ask!
What if I have allergies?
Please let me know about any allergies you have! Having a reaction to tattoo ink is unlikely but always possible. I will be able to tell you if your allergens are present in any of my supplies, and can likely find a safer substitute. Most often I have fragrance-free products on hand.
Should I tip after my appointment?
Tipping is not mandatory, but always appreciated! Most people choose to tip as they would for any other service (restaraunt, hair or nail appointment, etc.)
What products do you recommend?
I recommend any antibacterial soap that is gentle on the skin and fragrance-free for washing your tattoo while healing.
I also personally use "keeper of the ink" salve on my tattoos while healing, which contains natural and anti-itch ingredients, and is available for purchase at Altar Sacred Tattoo.
What if I need a touch-up?
In most cases, I offer a free touch-up any time within a year of your appointment (Except finger + foot tattoos.) Feel free to contact Altar Sacred Tattooing and schedule your touch up any time! In general, most touch-ups take less than 45 minutes to complete. Please allow your tattoo to heal for 6 weeks before your touch up appointment to reduce the risk of overworking the skin or scarring. Adding new things on to your design would be considered a new tattoo and be billed at my hourly rate.
TATTOO AFTERCARE
DO'S:
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If using a plastic wrap bandage, gently remove after 2 hours
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If using adhesive bandage, gently remove after 1-3 days. (under running water recommended.)
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Immediately wash the tattoo area with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap.
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Pat dry with a clean paper towel. (NOT a cloth towel!)
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After removing bandage, wash your tattoo 2-3 times per day for the first 3 days.
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Avoid lotion & ointment for the first 24 hours after removing the bandage. You may then apply a VERY thin layer of unscented lotion (or aftercare product of your choosing) once or twice per day after washing, but no more!
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Wear clean clothing and sleep on clean bedsheets while healing.
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Avoid areas that contain bacteria that could harm your tattoo. (gyms, bars, etc.)
DONT'S:
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DO NOT apply lotion or ointments for the first 24 hours.
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DO NOT scratch, peel or pick at your tattoo.
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DO NOT use hot tubs, swimming pools, or go to the beach during the healing process. (approximately 2 weeks)
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DO NOT use Neosporin, rubbing alcohol, peroxide, or cortisone cream.
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DO NOT let other people or animals come into contact with your tattoo.
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DO NOT soak your new tattoo. (Gentle washing or showering is fine.)
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DO NOT expose your new tattoo to direct sunlight or go tanning.
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If abnormal irritation, redness, swelling or fever should appear, please contact your physician.
THE DETAILS:
In most circumstances, I will bandage your tattoo with "Second Skin" or a similar medical grade adhesive bandage. (Tagaderm/Saniderm or Dermshield.) You may remove your adhesive bandage 1-3 days after your tattoo session.
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In the case of sensitive skin or an allergy, I will use a piece of adhesive-free plastic to cover your tattoo until you get home when you can then remove the bandage and wash your tattoo, keeping in mind that your skin is still susceptible to infection over the next few days. ​
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The adhesive bandage is easiest to remove in the shower or in the sink with running water. (By the way, It's perfectly normal to see an imprint of your tattoo design come off when removing the bandage!) It is also normal to experience some redness, swelling and tenderness for the first 48 hours. However, If you think you may be allergic to the bandaging or if your new tattoo feels like it is becoming unusually red and painful, please remove the bandaging carefully and wash your tattoo with a mild antibacterial soap. ​
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Your new tattoo may feel slimy - that's plasma! Try to gently remove as much of this possible, as when plasma dries, it creates scabs. Gently pat (do not rub) the area firmly with a clean paper towel. Do not use cloth towels as they hold bacteria.
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Your tattoo is an open wound and can get infected if you are exposed to bacteria. Be mindful not to touch your new tattoo on any surfaces or objects where you could be coming into contact with bacteria. Wear clean clothing and sleep on clean bedsheets while healing. Be mindful of your friends or pets accidentally touching your tattoo, and wash with antibacterial soap if this happens.
Do not apply any lotions or ointments for 24 hours after removing the bandage and first-wash. After 24 hours you may follow a washing with a light application of an aftercare product of your choice. Less is more!
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You can shower with a new tattoo. It is ok to get your tattoo wet. DO NOT soak your new tattoo. Submerging can cause damage or infection. Swimming, hot tubs and baths should be avoided for at least 2 weeks.
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Try not to touch or scratch your tattoo while healing. It's normal for your tattoo to develop a scab or dry layer and itch during the first few weeks, but it's important to let your body do the work and avoid contact with germs or anything abrasive. ​
Wear loose fitting soft clothing while healing. If your new tattoo sticks to your clothing, it's important not to pull the material off of your skin. Wet the fabric with water and gently peel away from your skin. Then wash and dry as usual.
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Do not use skincare products that contain fragrances or dyes, I also like to avoid petroleum products whenever possible. After your tattoo is healed (usually 2-3 weeks) it is then safe to apply whatever normal products you use, including sunscreen.
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Initial healing of your tattoo usually takes 2-3 weeks. Once all dry skin has flaked off on it's own, it may take another 2-3 weeks for the ink to fully settle into your skin. Please wait at least 6 weeks before a touch-up in that area if needed.