Most Common Questions About Tattoos

The most straightforward guide to all Frequently Asked Questions about tattoos.

How much does a tattoo cost?

Since it depends entirely on where you are located and the type of tattoo you want, we’ve created a Tattoo Cost Calculator to help you estimate the price. Check it out here and make your simulation.

Do tattoos hurt?

Yes, but not that much. It is in fact so bearable that everyone can get a tattoo. The sensation is similar to someone scratching a pen on your skin, it’s not pleasant and can get irritating after a while. Still, totally acceptable in the context of a tattoo.

If you’re still worried, check out the pain chart here and avoid getting your pieces in the most painful areas.

I faint when I see blood, can I get a tattoo? 

Yes, you can. Getting tattooed is not a bloody mess. In fact, you barely see any blood. Often times you can’t even see the place you’re getting tattooed on (back, neck, legs, etc.). 

If you faint easily, ask the tattoo artist to lie on the stretcher during the duration of the session and also warn them that you might feel ill. They are professionals, they’ll know how to put you at ease.

I’m afraid of needles, can I still get a tattoo?

Yes, you can. Getting tattooed is completely different from giving blood or getting a vaccine. Getting tattooed is more akin to scratching a pen (without ink) on your skin over and over again. 

Needles are indeed used but they barely enter your skin. For comparison:

• Tattoo needles penetrate your skin about 1/16th of an inch or about 1-2mm.
• Vaccine needles penetrate your skin about 1 to 1.5 inches or about 25–38 mm, to ensure intramuscular administration.

Huge difference.

How can I find a tattoo artist?

First, you must decide what type of tattoo you want to make. After you decide that, you can start finding artists in your area (or around it, don’t be afraid to travel for a tattoo) to contact. 

Artists should be chosen according to the style they master, the design you want, your budget, and their availability.

Here is the best place to search for tattoo artists. Just input your location and start looking for local artists. 

And here is a guide to finding artists and inspiration.

How long do tattoos take to heal?

Typically it takes 2 to 3 weeks for tattoos to fully heal. This will entirely depend on your aftercare routine and how well the tattoo was done. 

We have a full guide here to help you during the aftercare process guiding you from day 1 to day 30.

Can I use a numbing or anesthetic cream before getting tattooed?

Yes, you can. But this is something you should be asking your tattoo artist directly because they will be the ones working your skin. 

If you’re afraid of asking, here’s the guide on how to talk about it with your tattooist.

Also, here’s the guide on how to apply numbing cream.

Can I cover up a scar with a tattoo?

Yes, it can be done, but not on all scars.

Tattooing over scars depends on the scar’s size, texture, and color and also on the artist’s capacity to do a job they’ll be comfortable with. So if the tattoo artist you pick will accept the job, that is a question only they can answer.

Take into consideration that the scars need to be healed for at least one year before it’s safe to tattoo over them. Also, read the full guide to tattooing over scars here.

What’s the best way to contact a tattoo artist?

Every artist has their favorite method. Some prefer email, others the contact form on their website, others the Tattoos Wizard contact form, others the Instagram DMs, etc.

Once you find an artist, try to find their favorite method and use it. 

I contacted a tattoo artist but they’re not replying, what should I do? 

The solution depends on why they’re not answering. Are they too popular? Find another one. Did you use the wrong contact method? Try another. Are you asking for a job they can’t do? Find another artist. 

It all depends on the case. Here’s the full guide on what to do if your artist isn’t answering.