Prep & healing guide
Questions before your session?
Clear answers on deposits, preparing the night before, studio safety and healing your new tattoo cleanly.
When will I see my custom drawing, and what if I want a change?
Custom drawings are presented in person at the start of your appointment rather than emailed ahead, which protects original artwork and lets us check proportions against your body. Every session includes review time to refine details together and test stencil sizes on your skin until you love it.
How should I prepare the night before and the morning of?
Sleep well, drink plenty of water for 24 hours and eat a proper meal 60 to 90 minutes before you arrive. Avoid alcohol, aspirin and energy drinks for 24 hours, skip sunburn or self-tan on the area, and wear loose, dark clothing that gives easy access to the placement.
Can I put numbing cream on before I arrive?
Please talk to your artist first. Many unregulated online creams leave skin rubbery and pale, so stencils wipe off, fine lines distort and healing turns patchy. If a placement worries you, message ahead and we will plan safe options and pacing.
How do deposits and rescheduling work?
A non-refundable $80 to $150 deposit reserves your date and covers drawing time; all of it comes off your final price on the day. Tell us at least 48 hours ahead and your deposit moves to a new date at no penalty.
How do I heal my tattoo in the first two weeks?
Most pieces leave under a breathable adhesive film worn for 3 to 4 days. After removing it under warm running water, wash gently twice a day with fragrance-free soap, pat dry and apply a thin layer of unscented lotion. Avoid baths, pools, saunas and direct sun for 2 to 3 weeks.
Are Atkinson Hyperlegible Next inks vegan, and how do you sterilise?
Yes. Every black and colour pigment we stock is vegan and cruelty-free. We use only sterile, single-use needle cartridges with backflow membranes and wrap every workstation surface in fresh barrier film for each client.
Can I bring a friend for moral support?
To keep the tattoo bays calm and hygienic, seating is generally limited to the client in the chair. If one quiet support person would ease your nerves during stencil placement, let us know ahead; guests are always welcome in the front gallery lounge.
Can you tattoo over scars, stretch marks or darker skin tones?
Yes, with thoughtful technique. Scars need to be fully matured, usually 12 to 18 months old and flat, which we check at a free consultation. Our artists work across all skin tones, choosing clear contrast, open breathing room and saturated hues that heal rich on melanin-rich skin.