Frequently asked questions, in full

In person, at the start of the appointment, rather than emailed days ahead. That protects the original artwork and lets the proportions be checked against the body itself. Every custom session has review time built in, so details can be refined together and more than one stencil size tried on the skin until the piece feels right.

Yes. Every black and colour pigment on the shelf is vegan and cruelty-free, as are the stencil solution and glide balm. Needles are EO-gas-sterilised, single-use cartridges with internal backflow membranes, opened in front of the client, and every surface at the station is wrapped in fresh medical barrier film for each session.

Yes, with careful technique. Scars need to be fully matured, usually at least 12 to 18 months old and pale and flat rather than raised, and that is checked at a free consultation. The artists work across every skin tone, choosing clear value contrast, open breathing room and saturated colour that heals rich and legible on melanin-rich skin.

The Book action opens the contact page, and no date is held until the studio replies. Once a date is agreed, a non-refundable $80 to $150 deposit reserves it and comes off the final price in full on the day. Give at least 48 hours' notice and the deposit moves to a new date at no penalty.

Seating at the station is generally kept to the client in the chair, so the bay stays calm, clean and focused. If one quiet support person would ease nerves during stencil placement or a check-in, say so in the message beforehand. The studio has no waiting room, so this is agreed ahead rather than on the day.

Not without speaking to the artist first. Many unregulated creams leave the skin rubbery, waterlogged and pale, so the stencil wipes off, fine lines distort and the pain can rebound mid-session. For a sensitive placement, write ahead and the artist will talk through safe options and pacing.

Sleep well, drink plenty of water for 24 hours and eat a proper meal 60 to 90 minutes before arriving so blood sugar stays steady. Avoid alcohol, aspirin and energy drinks for 24 hours beforehand, keep sunburn and self-tanner off the area, and wear loose, dark clothing that leaves the placement easy to reach. Bring valid photo ID: nobody under eighteen is tattooed here.

Most pieces leave in a breathable medical film worn for three to four days. Once it is peeled off under warm running water, wash gently twice a day with fragrance-free soap, pat dry with a clean paper towel and apply a thin layer of unscented lotion. Keep out of baths, pools, the sea, saunas and direct sun for two to three weeks.