How do tattoos work?
A tattoo is a series of puncture wounds that carry dye into the different
levels of the skin. At first, the tattoo may be swollen and there may be some crusting on the surface. It is normal for the
tattoo to ooze small amounts of blood for up to 24 hours, and it may ooze clear, yellow, or blood-tinged fluid for several
days.
What are some common tattoo problems?
Tattoos are open wounds and as such are susceptible to infections if not taken
care of properly. It can't be said enough...FOLLOW YOUR AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS AND KEEP YOUR TATTOO CLEAN. But there are other
problems that can arise; Keloids - A keloid is a harmless growth of fibrous tissue at the site of
a healing scar caused by overproduction of collagen. Keloids are most common on the breastbone, upper back, and shoulder but
can occur anywhere on the body. Keloids can occur in a tattoo or a piercing but there is no way of knowing if they may occur
or not. Typically, most people who get tattooed or pierced do not develope a keloid. Contact Dermatitis-
Contact dermatitis is inflammation of the skin caused by contact with a substance that causes an allergic reaction. A minor
case of contact dermatitis may cause mild redness of the skin or a rash of small red bumps, while a more severe reaction may
cause swelling, redness, and larger blisters. A rash usually starts about 48 hours after exposure to the irritating substance.
Again, this is NOT a typical reaction to a tattoo.
How much is a tattoo or piercing?
All piercings at Darke Wave cost $30. However, when getting two or more piercings, the cost
after the first hole is $20. For instance, a nipple piericng would cost $50 for both nipples. Tattoos are a bit trickier.
Our minimum price for a tattoo is $30, but don't be fooled- most tattoos cost quite a bit more. At darkewave we charge by
the piece, a $30 tattoo would be small black piece (about 2 inches diameter). Prices vary depending on size, detail, and color
so it is very hard to give estimates unless you have an example of what you want. If this is the case, please feel free to
bring your image or idea to the studio so that we can give you a quote.
What is a "weeping tattoo"?
A weeping tattoo occurs from a variety of causes. It could be your body's reaction to
the aftercare product that you are using, but most often it is caused by using too much of said product. Generally,
a weeping tattoo well, weeps. It may look as if it's bubbling, losing color, and seeping. Although this may seem frightening,
it will heal. If this does occur stop using your aftercare product, using witch hazel instead, and contact your artist.
Can I get my foot tattoed?
Tattoos on the feet are becoming quite popular, but for a long time many artist refused to
tattoo in this area..and for good reason. Tattoos on the feet require extra special care, and can take longer to heal. Feet
can also swell significantly after a tattoo has been applied which can be very uncomfortable and sometimes painful, also they
can easily become infected because, well, they're feet and they can get a lot of wear n tear during the day. At Darke Wave,
we do tattoo feet- but we expect you to follow your aftercare procedure, and to call the studio if a problem does arise. Most
feet tats heal very nicely, especially small ones. Working with your artist can insure that you will love the finished result.
Does getting a tattoo/ piercing hurt?
Although not a pleasurable feeling, most people find the sensation more annoying
than painful. Of course people have different pain levels, so what might seem like a piece of cake to Suzi could be unbearable
to Mike. If you are dedicated your tattoo (which is permanent), the pain may not seem so bad.