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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.

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?

  • What can I bring with me to my appointment?
    Clients usually bring the following items to their appointment: headphones, a blanket, a beverage, snacks, device charger, and friends/family for support (if wanted). Please note: we do have limited seating available and may not have room for large groups.
  • How can I physically be ready for my appointment?
    Be sure to get a good rest before your appointment if you can! Stay hydrated prior to your appointment and eat a meal before your tattoo. Avoid too much sun exposure prior to your appointment. A sunburn or skin abrasions may require rescheduling your appointment. If you have any concerns or questions about your skin prior to your appointment, always feel free to contact your artist or call the studio! Moisturize your skin amd avoid tanning products in the days leading up to your appointment. Avoid alcohol consumption the evening prior to your appointment. Wear loose comfortable clothing that you don't mind ink potentially damaging.
  • Where can I park?
    Free three-hour parking is available on Victoria Street in the Market Square Parking Lot and free all day parking is available at the Marina parking lot. By-law is in effect from 8-5pm if you need to move your vehicle during your appointment just let your artist know.
  • How do I book a tattoo or piercing?
    To book a tattoo, feel free to fill out a Tattoo Request Form (under Contact Us), or email us at eternatattoostudio@gmail.com. Details needed to book at tattoo are: design, size, placement, colouring, and any photos for reference. If you're unsure of which artist you'd like to book with, let us find the right artist for you! To book a piercing with Madi, visit her booking site www.pokedbymadi.square.site. You can also message her directly at 343-544-6343.
  • How old do I have to be to get a tattoo?
    16 years old is our minimum age that we will tattoo. A parent/guardian must be present at the appointment to sign a waiver.
  • Is there anything you won't tattoo?
    We will not tattoo any material that perpetuates hatred and prejudice. We do not tattoo genitalia. Some areas of the body do not hold ink well over time (palms, knuckles, fingers, soles of feet, inner lip) and may require multiple touch ups. Your artist will explain to you any reservations they may have about placement and longevity prior to your appointment.
  • I want a tattoo but I'm on a limited budget. How do you determine pricing?
    All our artists charge an hourly rate ($100-180/hr), 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 or submit a request form for an estimate. Our shop minimum is $120.
  • What payment options do you have?
    Payment options are cash, eTransfer, credit card (+HST), and debit (+HST).
  • 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.
  • I have been feeling a little under the weather. Can I still get tattooed?
    If you are sick, please stay home. Our artists value their health as well as the health of their families, so we do not want to be in close contact with anyone sick for hours at a time. If you are unwell we will reschedule your appointment and give you priority in our schedule in order to get you in as soon as possible once you are feeling better. Our artists reserve the right to cancel your appointment on the spot if you show up for your tattoo visibly unwell.
  • I need to cancel my appointment. How do I proceed?
    If you are sick, have an emergency situation, or cannot make your appointment, please let us know as soon as you know! We prefer to have 48 hour notice prior, but we also understand things come up unexpectedly in life! To cancel and/or reschedule, please call us at the studio during open hours or contact us through email or social media.
  • I have low pain tolerance. What are my options?
    Taking 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. Some analgesics can affect blood clotting: avoid ibuprofen and aspirin prior to your appointment. During your appointment, your artist will use Bactine First Aid Spray to help reduce swelling and redness. Bactine also offers minor temporary pain relief. Don't be afraid to ask for breaks if you need to reposition, stretch, use the washroom, or just take a breather. See our FAQ for information on numbing cream.

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.

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