In Queensland the laws surrounding tattoos (both artistic and cosmetic) require you to be 18 years old. Our studio will ask for proof of age if we suspect that a person is younger than 18. We will not tattoo anyone under the age of 18, even if they have parent or guardian consent. If you book a tattoo and you are under the age of 18, you will forfeit your booking and any deposit that has been paid.

Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio is strictly appointment only. We operate Monday- Friday 9-5pm. However, at times our artists do work evenings and weekends. It is best to communicate directly with your artist to find a mutually suitable date and time for your tattoo. Cosmetic Tattoo artist Lena is available once per month.

Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio is located in the picturesque Village Green Complex at Highfields. Our address is Shop 4/10475 New England Highway, Highfields QLD, 4352

Yes, we are a fully licensed and insured professional tattoo studio (license number: 4650307). We have council approval and hold all relevant insurances and certificates. Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio also adheres to the strict QLD Government health regulations and our artists all hold the required licences and Infection Control Certificates.

You can contact the Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio to make an enquiry or a booking, via email or by directly messaging our social media pages: Email: roseandthorntattoostudio@gmail.com Social Media: Instagram- @roseandthorntattoostudio Facebook- Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio

Yes, we regularly host guest artists. To guest spot at our studio, please send us an email with samples of your work and the dates you would like to join us. roseandthorntattoostudio@gmail.com

Yes. Tattoos can be painful, particularly when you are booking a medium to large piece and are required to sit for more than a few hours. The level of pain a person experiences is dependent on various factors, including their personal pain tolerance and sensitivity, a person’s general health, fitness and wellbeing, the area of the body that is being tattooed and how well they prepare for their session.

We are supportive of a client’s choice to use numbing cream and permit them to bring their numbing cream or foam into their session. We recommend that you do independent research on the company and cream that you choose and pay particular attention to the reviews on the product. It is important to highlight that some people, depending on their skin, experience a lack of depth in the colour of their tattoo if they use certain numbing creams. Numbing creams do wear off and if you are sitting for an extended period, once the cream wears off the pain that you experience can be amplified. It is also important to note that our policy concerning free touch-up sessions on large- scale pieces is void if you have used numbing creams. Our artists are trained to pack ink in a manner that will ensure the longevity of a tattoo. If your tattoo requires a touch- up session as a result of poor client care or numbing cream effects, you are required to pay for your touch up session.

Our artists are highly trained in being empathetic to our clients and tuning in to their pain and/or discomfort levels. We will counsel you and encourage you through your session and stop for breaks as needed. The best thing you can do to prepare for a tattoo is to read our FAQ’s regarding before and after care, which covers the important steps in preparing for a tattoo, such as the importance of getting sleep in the days leading up to your tattoo, eating healthy and avoiding alcohol, having a big breakfast on the morning of your session (load up on carbs) and what to bring on the day of your appointment (ie. snacks and entertainment- headphones and music is always calming). You will find that our artists are very understanding. We have all been in your shoes, where we have experienced the nerves of being tattooed for the first time. The difference is, unlike other tattoo studios that blast music and are dark and packed full of people, Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio offers a light, private and tranquil environment. Our artists are so friendly and approachable and so, the best thing you can do for your own mental health is to be upfront about your anxiety and nerves and allow them to talk you through the process and put you at ease. We are here to offer you an incredible tattoo- but we also want you to have an incredible experience. So, if there is something we can do to cater to your needs, please let us know.

Yes, tattoos are incredibly safe. At Rose and Thorn Tattoo studio we follow strict sanitation guidelines and ensure that we provide a clean and sterile environment. We prioritise hygiene and cleanliness and are trained and experienced in sanitation protocols. There are certain health conditions that restrict or prevent your ability to be tattooed. It is important that you are honest with your tattoo artist about your medical history or if you have a diagnosis that could impact your ability to be tattooed. Example: People with epilepsy can be tattooed- however, a stressful environment or flickering lights can trigger an epileptic episode. If you suffer from epilepsy and disclose this to your artist, your artist can take the precautions necessary to ensure the environment is safe and they can conduct a risk analysis and prepare for the possibility of a seizure The goal of disclosure is to ensure we can tailor our approach to cater to your individual needs. Example Two: People with the herpes virus can be tattooed, however, tattooing can trigger the virus to become active. So, by disclosing this information to your artist, they can recommend you see a GP for antiviral medication in the weeks leading up to your tattoo. Because the virus is contagious, they can also take extra precautions to keep themselves safe and reduce the risk of you experiencing a viral flare up. Full medical disclosure for the safety of yourself and others is of paramount importance when you are booking a tattoo.

It is vital that you disclose your medical conditions and any contraindications to your tattoo artist prior to your session. We will provide you with a consent form on the day of your tattoo and it will list a series of medical related questions that, for your own safety and wellbeing, you should answer correctly and honestly. When booking your appointment and you know of any existing medical conditions that you have, it is always wise to disclose this information at the time of booking. If you have a medical condition or take any prescription medication, your artist needs to know. This is particularly important if you are on blood pressure medication, blood thinners, chemotherapy or steroids. It is important to disclose whether you have the following conditions: A heart condition, diabetes, haemophilia or a blood clotting disorder, HIV, Hepatitis, Allergies (including to latex), Epilepsy, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Prescription drugs such as Accutane or acne medications can make the skin hypersensitive and tattooing a client on any of these drugs can lead to severe pain and scarring. Blood thinners or medications that can thin your blood should be discussed with your doctor and artist, depending on the reason why you are taking the medication, it can impact your ability to be tattooed (particularly for long sessions). If you are taking Anti-Rejection medication (for an organ transplant or other medical condition), you will also need to consult with your doctor prior to being tattooed to determine whether your overall health is strong enough to withstand being tattooed.

At Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio, we pride ourselves on our ability to create beautiful art and our reputation as industry leaders within the community. As tattoo artists we are trained in OH&S and mitigating safety risks. Confirming a health contraindication does not automatically mean that you will be turned away or refused service. We practice universal precautions in disease control to manage transference of certain diseases and in some cases we can take extra precautions for the safety of ourselves and our clients. A latex allergy for example may be as simple as requiring a change in the type of gloves that our artist uses while we are tattooing. For your own safety it is vital that you are open and honest when disclosing your medical history. This is genuinely for your best interest. If the medical condition is only a risk to you and not your artist- you are only hurting yourself by not disclosing, (such as with a heart condition or epilepsy). We always recommend talking to your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions and allergies and whether your condition will impact your ability to be tattooed. Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio prioritises the safety and best interests of our community, clients and our artists and as such, our artists have the right to refuse service to a potential client based on their health conditions or medical status. If you are denied a tattoo, please understand that this decision is not made lightly and is always for your safety and wellbeing.

Our studio does not offer tattoo removal services.

Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio proudly welcomes highly sought after and incredibly talented cosmetic tattooist @lena for eyebrow, lip and eyeliner tattooing procedures once a month. You can book with Lena directly at: https://lenareaybookings.as.me/schedule.php

Our studio is a tattoo studio only. We do not perform any piercings or body modification.

Our studio is accessible to inclusive and our floor layout can accommodate a wheelchair. If you are in a wheelchair and being tattooed, we ask that you disclose this with your artist at the time of booking so that we can ensure that we provide the necessary accommodations.

Unfortunately, due to the health requirements and QLD legislation you are unable to bring any animal into the tattoo studio. This is not reflective of Rose and Thorn’s inclusion policies; this is a national law. If you require mobility assistance due to a vision impairment, we are more than happy to assist or we recommend that you bring a support person with you. Your assistant animal can wait outside of the studio. If you do have a vision impairment we would recommend letting your artist know in advance and we can offer a team member to meet you at a pre-determined location and guide you to the studio and your tattoo bay…or, if you are comfortable you are welcome to bring a support person or use a mobility aide. Our team will ensure that we make the necessary adjustments to accommodate your needs.

Unfortunately, we do not allow children to attend tattoo sessions as you are unable to provide adequate supervision. We restrict studio access to people over 18 years. A tattoo studio presents numerous potential dangers to small children, including sharps and trip hazards. We must also keep the studio as sterile and hygienic as possible.

Gift vouchers are available to purchase online or in-store and may be used as a form of payment with any of our artists. Rose and Thorn vouchers are valid for 36 months from the date of purchase. Please inform your artist at the time of booking if you have a gift voucher to spend.

To make a tattoo booking you can complete our Booking Enquiry form on the website, contact your preferred artist individually on their social media, or email our studio directly at roseandthorntattoostudio@gmail.com. If you email the studio, please detail the following information: - Full Name - Contact Number - Description of design/concept -Estimated size of the tattoo you would like (in CMs) -Preferred artist (if known) - Placement on the body and a clear photo of the area to be tattooed (Please make note of any scars or existing tattoos) - Any reference material to illustrate the design of the tattoo you are wanting - Your availability, with your preferred days for your booking

Yes. Our artists are happy to arrange their own bookings. You can visit our Instagram (@roseandthorntattoostudio to connect with them directly or access our artist’s direct contact details through their Bio pages on our website. Keep in mind, due to the exceptional quality and reputation of our artists, we are often booked out 2-3 months in advance. We recommend following our social media channels as this is where we advertise any last-minute cancellation availabilities. If you are contacting an artist, rather than the studio, be sure to include the following information in your initial email: - Full Name - Contact Number - Description of design/concept - Placement on the body and a clear photo of the area to be tattooed (Please detail any scars or existing tattoos) - Any reference material to illustrate your concept - Your preferred dates or days for your booking

When we are tattooing our clients, we are committed to giving them our full attention. We hope that you understand that we think it is unfair and highly unprofessional to expect a client to have their paid session interrupted by unexpected walk-ins, or to have their session paused to enable their artist to take phone calls. It is for this reason that our studio is solely an appointment only studio and we take all enquiries via email or our social media accounts. Often our artists will be tattooing all day and have designs to complete in the evenings, so please allow a couple of days for us to address your enquiries. If you have a large-scale piece and would like to speak to your artist in person, we encourage you to contact your artist to request an out-of-hours consultation. More often than not, our artists are able to design your piece through email communication. However, if it is convenient for both of you to meet and discuss your concept, a face-to-face consultation can be arranged around existing session times.

The number of days required to complete your tattoo and therefore, the cost, will be determined by the size and amount of detail in your tattoo concept. Our studio has a minimum price of $250. Each artist operates as a sole trader and determines their own daily rate and quote. We ask that you send us a description and reference images of the design you are after, as well as measurements and placement. Once you have shared your tattoo concept with us, our artists will make an effort to provide you with an estimated timeframe and price for its completion. However, please understand that the initial quote serves as a general reference only. Several factors, such as the client's ability to sit still, can affect the actual duration of the tattooing process.

A deposit is required at the time of your booking to secure a day and time. A date will not be locked in until a deposit is received. You will receive the deposit requirements when booking your tattoo. A deposit of $200.00 is required to be paid via bank transfer at the time of your booking. This will be deducted from the cost of your tattoo at the end of your session. If you are booking multiple days, a deposit of $200.00 for each day you are booking is required to be paid via bank transfer. The total deposit amount will be deducted from the total of your final session. All deposits are non-refundable unless rescheduling with 7 days notice.

If you would like to reschedule your appointment, we require a minimum of 7 days notice. If you change your booking you will forfeit your deposit and be asked to pay a new deposit to secure your new date. All deposits are non-refundable. If you cancel your appointment, you forfeit your deposit.

Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio accepts cash, direct deposit or gift vouchers as payment.

We do not offer finance options at this stage.

You may re-schedule your appointment once without losing your deposit, provided that you give your artist 7 days notice. If you provide the required notice, your artist can transfer your deposit to your rescheduled appointment date. If you reschedule a second time, you will forfeit your deposit and will be required to pay a new deposit to book a session. Rose and Thorn has a strict 'three strike policy'- if you change your appointment three times in a row, you will no longer be able to be tattooed by our artists.

At Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio we operate on a moral and ethical standing founded on mutual respect. If a client is abusive, intoxicated and/or offensive, we have the right to stop tattooing and refuse service. We do not tolerate obnoxious or harassing behaviour toward any of our team or artists.

Yes! Our studio owner, Melinda, is a highly sought after and experienced tattoo artist and is one of the leading providers of medical tattooing in Australia. Melinda is especially passionate about areola tattooing and nipple micropigmentation and has extensively studied the art of permanent medical tattooing and the psychology behind trauma and physical scars.

We specialise in multiple forms of medical tattooing, including but not limited to: Permanent 3D Areola Tattoos Nipple micropigmentation and restoration Realistic toenail and Fingernail tattoos 3D belly buttons

Yes, we can work with you to determine the cover-up most suited to your needs, whether it be using skin tone pigments to camouflage your scars or tattooing an artistic design to cover the scarred tissue.

Areola and nipple tattooing and micropigmentation is a specialty area of medical tattooing. Nipple micropigmentation serves as an aesthetic treatment to darken, enlarge and define the nipples and the surrounding areola, so that they appear more prominent and/or symmetrical. Areola tattooing is permanent procedure that involves advanced tattooing techniques and specialist skill to create a realistic 3D areola and nipple on the breast/chest. Often for men or women who have had breast cancer or extensive breast surgeries, the darker sensitive skin of the nipple and areola is completely removed. The tattooing process uses natural-looking pigments to create the illusion of depth and texture so that we can essentially build a life-like nipple on a reconstructed breast/chest.

It is crucial for clients to understand that there are currently no regulations or prerequisites for training in medical tattooing, specifically for areola tattoos. When considering investing in a medical tattoo, it is essential to seek out a highly skilled specialist rather than a traditional tattoo artist. While some tattooists may agree to tattoo a nipple and areola, they may lack the specialised techniques and comprehensive training required for this specific procedure. The loss of a nipple and/or areola can be a deeply traumatic experience, and it is important to choose an artist who can empathise with your journey. Look for someone who provides a safe and understanding space and possesses the experience and knowledge of the specific techniques involved in tattooing 3D areolas and scar tissue. At Rose and Thorn Tattoo, we recognise the emotional triggers associated with the loss of a nipple and/or areola and are committed to creating a supportive environment. Our artist, Melinda, is well-versed in the intricacies of tattooing 3D areolas and scar tissue. By selecting a highly skilled specialist, you can ensure that your areola tattooing experience is carried out with expertise, precision, and a deep understanding of your unique needs.

Yes. Areola tattooing is perfectly safe, however, as with any medical procedure or cosmetic treatment there is a small risk of infection, allergic reaction and scarring. Selecting a reputable artist, such as Melinda, who specialises in medical tattooing will minimise these risks. We recommend waiting six months after your final surgery to undergo areola tattooing and 12-18 months for scar camouflage and always suggest speaking to your surgeon or treating physician to receive medical clearance.

Areola tattooing and nipple micropigmentation is recommended for men or women who have undergone a mastectomy or breast reconstruction surgery and want to restore the natural appearance of their breast/chest. The procedure is also suitable for people who have lost pigment in the area due to age or medical conditions or who want to alter the appearance or add symmetry to the area, such as those who have undergone gender affirmation surgery. Areola tattooing can help boost confidence and self-esteem, often providing people with a sense of completeness and closure.

Yes, unlike cosmetic tattooing that uses pigments that fade over time, areola tattooing performed by Melinda, uses a permanent tattooing process and naturally toned inks that are permanent.

Yes, areola tattooing, and nipple micropigmentation can typically be performed five to six months after surgery, to ensure the area has enough time to heal.

Recognising readiness for the procedure involves both physical and emotional considerations. While the healing process varies for each individual, a general guideline is to wait until your scars are no longer red. This indicates that the scar tissue has matured, minimising the risk of causing further harm to the developing cellular structure. It is important to understand that physical readiness is only part of the equation. Many individuals seeking areola tattoos have undergone traumatic surgeries or illnesses, resulting in deeper emotional scars. At Rose and Thorn Tattoo, we empathise with the challenges you face when contemplating medical tattooing. We are here to offer guidance and support as you navigate this journey. We encourage you to listen to both your body and your mind. Take the time you need to heal and process your inner thoughts and feelings. It is crucial not to rush or force external repairs before acknowledging and addressing your inner self. Confronting physical changes that stem from a traumatic experience can be incredibly daunting. Trust yourself to know when you are ready. We understand that we can never fully comprehend your unique journey and experiences. However, we want to assure you that we provide a safe and private space for you to embark on your healing journey, should you choose an areola tattoo. We acknowledge and embrace the emotional complexities that may arise during this process. Our medical tattooing specialist, Melinda, possesses a beautiful, compassionate, and empathetic nature. She is dedicated to ensuring your experience is positive, serving as a celebration of your strength and resilience.

The shape of your areola tattoo should be decided on a combination of aesthetic appearance, namely, the shape and “look” that you are attracted to AND the suitability of the shape and skin tone on your chest or the natural curve of your breast. Our medical tattoo specialist, Melinda, will be able to help you determine a colour, size and shape that is suited to your personal skin tone and shape.

Yes, we offer virtual or face-to-face consultations for all medical tattooing procedures. In order for Melinda to provide you with the best service possible, it is important for her to understand your current situation and to inspect images of your scars/skin area.

The pain level associated with medical tattooing is dependent on the individual and the area that we are tattooing. Scar tissue can be more painful to tattoo than unscarred skin if the scars have caused nerve damage or compression, such as with amputation scars. However, areola tattooing is generally well-tolerated and often clients experience little discomfort. We are happy to apply numbing cream and foams throughout the process to ensure your medical tattooing is as tolerable as possible. We are happy to apply numbing cream and foams throughout the process to ensure your medical tattooing is as tolerable as possible. Unfortunately, areola and breast tattoos (on those who have undergone chemotherapy) can not use numbing cream. This is because we don’t want to compromise the already fragile skin when tattooing and so it is our policy to avoid numbing creams on the breast area all together.

We recommend confirming your physical readiness with your treating physician when planning an areola tattoo. In general, it is best to wait five to six months after your final surgery before undergoing the areola tattoo procedure in order to give your body enough time to heal the area. The procedure itself generally takes between 3-4 hours.

The healing time for an areola tattoo varies from person to person. It usually takes anywhere from three to four weeks for the area to completely heal. Some slight scabbing or skin flaking will occur during this time, but this is a normal part of the healing process. A small bandage will be required for the first few days to avoid clothing from sticking to the tattooed area. Washing the area once a day and applying a thin layer of aftercare cream to the area will help prevent the tattoo from drying out too much and will aid in the healing process.

In general, we advise our clients to prepare for two sessions to complete their areola tattoos. This is ensures that we have enough time to perfect the shape and tone of the nipple and areolas.

Absolutely. At Rose and Thorn Tattoo, we understand and value the importance of maintaining privacy during medical tattooing procedures. In addition to providing privacy screens, we go the extra mile to ensure a safe and exclusive environment. To prioritize your comfort and confidentiality, we reserve dedicated days solely for medical tattoo bookings, ensuring that no other clients are scheduled during those times. This way, we can create a true sanctuary for you. Furthermore, we minimise the number of staff present during your session to maintain a serene and private atmosphere. Your peace of mind is our utmost priority.

Absolutely. We want you to feel as safe as possible and to be comfortable throughout the entire process.

Unfortunately, in Australia medical tattooing is not covered by insurance.

Yes! At Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio, our tattooists are artists and love creating custom pieces that are truly unique to our clients. We ask that our clients recognise and appreciate the experience and expertise of our artists when developing a design for a tattoo. Sometimes, what you want and where you want it may not work. Be prepared to be flexible with your vision. The amount of space required to complete a tattoo varies depending on the amount of detail in the tattoo concept and design. The placement of the tattoo is as important as the quality of the tattoo. Even the most highly skilled artist cannot fit an entire portrait, complete with the detail in a photo, on a small space or a kneecap, for example. Our artists will work with you to ensure that the design and placement of your tattoo will achieve the very best outcome. We ask our clients to provide our artists with creative freedom so that their tattoos are of the highest quality. We do not replicate the artwork of other tattoo artists but welcome images to be used as inspiration. Your tattoo design is completed in advance and will be ready for review on the morning of your first appointment. Designs are not sent out in advance. We will consult and work with you on the day to ensure your tattoo is perfect.

Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio only hires tattoo artists who are experts in their craft and as artists, we value creativity, originality and authenticity. We encourage our clients to send reference images of tattoo design concepts and styles of existing works that they admire, however we will not copy another artist’s work. Our artists will bring their own creative flair to a concept and will create a tattoo that will be unique and personally created for you.

Our artists have the right to refuse any designs or concepts that promote hate speech or offence- this includes and is not limited to, symbols perpetuating racism and/or discrimination and gang affiliated tattoos. Tattooing sensitive areas such as the hands, face and/or genitalia is up to the discretion of the artist. In most cases, unless a person is already heavily tattooed, we will not tattoo the face and/or hands of a client. Face tattoos can affect your chances of employment and we will not be held liable for any resistance/discrimination you face because of your tattoo. It is up to the individual artist if they tattoo fingers/palms. These areas are prone to the ink falling out. If you receive a tattoo in these areas, we will not offer a free touch up service.

If we can, we will. In general we recommend that a client receives laser tattoo removal if the existing tattoo is overly dark or large in size. To book a cover-up we recommend contacting your individual artist, and our ability to cover existing work will depend on what you want to cover the tattoo with. If you are looking to cover-up an existing tattoo, often you will have to go with a design that is significantly larger and darker than the original.

If you follow the after-care fact sheet provided to you, your tattoo is likely to heal perfectly. In most cases, a touch-up session is not needed. If you have spoken to your artist and your touch-up is booked within 3 months of the original booking, you will not be required to pay for the service. However, if you require a touch up after the 3 month timeframe, you will be required to pay a fee at the discretion of your artist. If you have not followed our after-care instructions and have not looked after your tattoo which has resulted in an infection or impacted its ability to heal (ie. If you have gone swimming or have picked the healing work) or if you used numbing cream at your appointment, you will be required to book another session and pay your artist to fix the work.

An apprentice tattoo artist is an individual who is learning the art and craft of tattooing under the guidance and supervision of an experienced professional tattoo artist. They are in the process of developing their skills, technique, and knowledge in the tattoo industry. Yes, getting tattooed by an apprentice is safe, especially when they are working under the supervision of an experienced tattoo artist. The apprentice will have received proper training and guidance to ensure that they adhere to strict hygiene and safety protocols.

In most cases, tattoo rates for apprentices may be lower than those charged by experienced artists. This is because apprentices are still honing their skills and gaining experience. However, pricing may vary depending on the tattoo studio and the specific apprentice. It is best to enquire about pricing during the consultation process.

In the week leading up to your tattoo appointment it is best to refrain from alcohol or illicit substances and to ensure you are sleeping and hydrated. On the morning of your appointment, eat a big breakfast that contains carbs and protein- this will fuel your body and provide your body with energy stores needed to withstand a large tattoo session. It is important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated and to avoid caffeine (you don’t want to have those caffeine jitters when you’re being tattooed). We ask that you do not attend your session if you are unwell. If this is the case, please contact your artist with plenty of notice. We recommend that you bring sugary snacks and a drink or two to your session. When you are being tattooed, your blood sugar levels drop and so having sugary snacks can help mitigate this and create a more positive experience. Your artist will be concentrating intently on your tattoo and so we recommend that you bring a source of entertainment. We have found that clients enjoy bringing in headphones to listen to music or a podcast or even a book to read. We will usually break midway through the session for a 30-minute lunch break. There are local eateries in the area to purchase lunch, or you can bring a packed lunch to eat in the centre. We also recommend that you bring an aftercare balm with you to apply to your completed tattoo. However, we do have these available to purchase in store.

It is up to you what you choose to bring to your sessions, but we recommend your own pillow and blanket, sugary snacks, lunch or money for lunch, drinks, your identification, headphones and a podcast or epic Spotify playlist, a book and a jumper.

At Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio we have created a calm and safe little sanctuary, located in a beautiful and somewhat remote area of Highfields. You can be comfortable here in whatever you choose to wear. We recommend that you consider where you are being tattooed and ensure that the area is accessible to your artist. A general rule is that it is more important to be comfortable than fashionable when you are receiving a tattoo. We recommend loose clothing. If you are being tattooed in an area that may expose sensitive areas of your body, we offer privacy screens and nipple covers to cover sensitive areas.

We ask that you do not bring children or anyone under the age of 18 to your session. Ideally, we would prefer that you attend the session alone, to avoid any distractions. However, if you would feel more comfortable with a support person, you are welcome to bring them. Please be aware that If you are talking or distracted, there is a higher likelihood that you will move or that you will struggle to get in the “zone”. This choice is entirely up to you.

Yes. We are supportive of our client’s using numbing creams and bringing numbing creams or foams into their session. In fact, if you are booked in for a tattoo in a highly sensitive area, such as your ribs, Melinda recommends a reputable numbing cream. Be sure to always read the label and follow the instructions accordingly. We do not take any responsibility for any reactions or discomfort a person may experience from a numbing cream. We recommend that a client conduct a skin test prior to their session and be aware that some numbing creams require being applied and covered an hour before the session is due to begin. Always read the instructions and warning labels to determine if this is right for you. If you do want to use a numbing cream or have applied a numbing cream prior to your appointment, please let your artist know and bring the product with you on the day.

After your tattoo has been completed, your artist will apply an after-care balm and wrap your tattoo in glad wrap to protect the open area from any germs or debris. Our studio will provide you with an after-care fact sheet that can also be downloaded on our FAQ''s page. We need to remember that a tattoo is regarded by the body as a wound and so it is important to keep your tattoo clean and to avoid exposing it to germs or unsanitary surfaces. Avoid touching it or letting pets or animals near your fresh ink. We recommend that the initial wrap on your tattoo is removed within 2 hours and that the tattooed area is washed gently and thoroughly with fragrance free soap and warm water. Pat your tattoo dry with clean paper towel and allow it to air dry for the afternoon/evening. It is important that you restrict any harsh chemicals, cleansers or exfoliants from entering the wound. We recommend that you apply a thin layer of a tattoo healing balm, such as After Art, to the area a few times a day. You want to avoid your tattoo becoming too dry, but do not drown your tattoo either. Do not pick the scabs or the loose skin of your tattoo. This can cause skin damage and affect the integrity of your tattoo. Do not swim or soak your tattoo until it is completely healed. This includes the beach, swimming pools, baths and spas. Avoid excess sweat and unsterile environments- this includes the gym and saunas, while your tattoo is healing.

After getting a tattoo, the outer layer of skin (the part that you can see), will typically take 3 to 4 weeks to heal. It can take a couple of months to heal the deeper layers of skin. Healing is highly dependent on the individual. The time it takes your tattoo to heal with depend on a variety of factors including your health, diet and your aftercare practices. Generally, the tattoo will be an open wound for a week- aftercare is extremely important during this time in order to avoid infection. By week 2 and onwards, the skin should close and the healing process will take place. Don’t be alarmed if your skin peels or leaks plasma, this is a normal part of the healing process.

When your tattoo is healing, it will itch and the skin will peel away. This is perfectly normal It is also normal for the skin to be the colour of the ink used, this is not your tattoo falling out, rather it is your body, shedding that top layer of skin to heal your tattoo. It is important that you do not pick or pull the skin off. Let your tattoo shed naturally.

During the tattoo healing process, there are some things that are guaranteed to happen to everyone and plasma leaking from the area is one of them. We have to remember that a tattoo is technically a wound. Whilst plasma leaking from the tattooed area can be unpleasant and can vary from clear liquid, to blood, ink or a combination of the three, it is a normal and necessary part of the healing process. The goal of plasma is to create a barrier between the skin and the air, by moving to the surface and hardening, to create a scab and stop bleeding. It is essential in sealing the wound off from the outside world and then your body’s proteins and nutrients can get to work at healing the tattoo. You should expect to see leaking ink and fluids for a few days. Try not to interfere with the process. A quality after-care agent, designed to care for tattoos will keep your tattoo hydrated, soothe any irritation and help to decrease healing times by eliminating any lingering dryness and scabbing. If your tattoo leaks plasma and sticks to your bedding, it is important to wash and change your bedding. If you have a dog, as disturbing as it sounds, they will want to lick to the wound- do not let any pets touch or lick your tattoo site.

The healing process of a tattoo typically occurs in stages spanning several weeks. Throughout this time, the skin undergoes various changes as it repairs the wound and guards against infection. During the first week (sometimes two) after completing the tattoo, it is considered an open wound. It is normal to experience mild redness and tenderness in the surrounding skin. In the initial days following your tattoo session, you may observe redness, warmth, oozing, and swelling. These are natural reactions as your body heals. The clear fluid that may leak from the tattoo is called plasma, which plays a vital role in the healing process. Within the first week, you may also encounter other signs of healing, including itching, flaking, and scabbing. These symptoms are normal and tend to fade away during the second week of the healing process. It is common for the skin to wash away in the shower, and you may notice some scabs naturally detaching. If, during the healing process, especially after the third day, your tattoo feels excessively hot to the touch, appears swollen, exhibits green or yellow discharge, or causes significant pain, it is important to consult with your doctor and/or tattoo artist to ensure that you are not experiencing an infection.

It is essential to be aware of the potential signs of an infection during the tattoo healing process. While infections are relatively rare, it is important to recognise any possible issues and seek appropriate medical attention if needed. Here are some common signs of infection to watch out for: Excessive redness: While some redness is normal during the initial healing phase, if the redness expands beyond the tattoo site, becomes increasingly intense, or is accompanied by heat, it may indicate an infection. Swelling: Mild swelling is typical immediately after getting a tattoo, but if the swelling worsens or persists for an extended period, it could be a sign of an infection. Pain or tenderness: While tattoos can be somewhat painful during the healing process, severe or increasing pain, especially accompanied by throbbing or a persistent ache, may indicate an infection. Prolonged warmth: While the tattooed area might be warm to the touch initially, if the warmth persists or intensifies over time, it could be a sign of infection. Discharge: Normal healing may involve clear or slightly coloured plasma oozing from the tattoo. However, if the discharge becomes thick, greenish, or yellowish, or if it develops a foul odour, it could indicate an infection. Elevated body temperature: If you experience a fever or an overall increase in body temperature, it could be a sign of an infection. Monitor your temperature and seek medical attention if it remains consistently high. If you notice any combination of these symptoms or have concerns about the healing process, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or reach out to your tattoo artist. They can assess the situation and provide appropriate guidance or treatment if necessary. Remember, it is always better to be safe and address any potential issues promptly.