COMMON QUESTIONS FROM OUR CLIENTS

Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!

Answering your questions is what we here at Eterna Tattoo Studio live for.

Remember that there’s no such thing as a bad question, and that we’ve heard just about everything.

For your convenience, we’ve compiled a list of questions we often receive from our customers, but if there’s something we’ve missed, don’t hesitate to reach out.

HOW OLD DO I HAVE TO BE TO GET A TATTOO?

You must be 18 or over to get a tattoo in Ontario, without parental consent.

WHAT IS THE EXPECTED HEALING TIME?

After getting a tattoo, the outer layer of skin (the part you can see) will typically heal within 2 to 3 weeks. While it may look and feel healed, and you may be tempted to slow down on the aftercare, it can take as long as 6 months for the skin below a tattoo to truly heal.

Skin around larger tattoos takes longer to recover and certain factors, like picking at the scabs, not moisturizing, forgoing SPF, or using a lotion with alcohol may slow the process.

WHAT SHOULD AND SHOULDN'T I DO BEFORE GETTING A TATTOO?

Before your appointment, you SHOULD consider eating a good meal, drinking plenty of water, consuming protein, and consuming vitamin C. Wear comfortable clothing to the studio, and be sure to shower and shave the desired area of the tattoo beforehand.

Some things you SHOULDN'T do prior to getting inked would be consuming alcohol/caffeine/energy drinks, consuming dairy and sugar, and getting your skin exposed to too much sun. Avoid wearing tight clothing that cannot be adjusted to expose the desired area of the tattoo.

I WANT A TATTOO BUT I’M ON A LIMITED BUDGET. HOW DO YOU DETERMINE PRICING?

All our artists charge an hourly rate, so the total price can vary based on size, location, detail, and color selection. For larger pieces, many of our clients choose to complete their tattoos in sessions rather than all at once. The best way to find out how much a tattoo will cost and how much time it will take is to come by the studio for a free consultation.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST AND LEAST PAINFUL PLACES TO BE TATTOOED?

How much a tattoo hurts depends on a number of different factors such as the thickness of the skin, whether the area is over bone or muscle, and the concentration of nerve cells. The sternum, chest, and groin hurt the most when tattooed. Areas with extremely thin and sensitive skin also may hurt. Eyelids, in particular, can be painful, as many people are very twitchy when getting their eyelids tattooed. The areolas can also hurt, especially if scar tissue there means extra pressure is needed. The least painful are usually the arms and thighs.

I HAVE A LOW PAIN TOLERANCE. SHOULD I TAKE A PAINKILLER BEFORE MY APPOINTMENT?

Popping a painkiller ahead of your session may help limit the discomfort, but most tattoo artist's don't usually recommend clients take a painkiller before their appointment. In particular, some topical numbing creams can have adverse effects on the quality of the tattoo.

It's also important to note that some over-the-counter and prescription painkillers, including ibuprofen and aspirin, are also blood thinners, so they may increase bleeding and interfere with the healing process.

ARE WALK-INS WELCOME?

Walk-in appointments depend entirely of that particular days' schedule volume. Walk in appointments are definitely possible, but it is best to make a quick phone call to the studio prior to coming in just to make sure we can accommodate you that day.

IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO BRING WITH ME TO MY APPOINTMENT?

You will be required to show ID at the beginning of your first appointment at the studio.

Bringing any additional items is entirely up to each client, but it is recommended to bring snacks, a drink, sweater, and anything else that may keep you busy and/or comfortable if you will be sitting for a long session (book, tablet, headphones, charger, small blanket, etc.)