FAQ's

Your Frequently Asked Questions Answered…

How much does it cost?
Please call for hourly rates or come in for a quote on your design

Does it hurt?
Yes but the pain becomes less intense as your body releases endorphins

Will it hurt less if I take drugs, pain killers or drink alcohol?
We will not tattoo anyone under the influence of drugs, including over the counter pain killers or alcohol. These substances will thin your blood and cause excessive bleeding during the tattoo process. It can also slow the healing process and make ink drop out leaving poor quality artwork.

How old do I have to be to get a tattoo?
You must be over the age of 18 to get a tattoo by law. We will ask you for photo ID if we suspect you are under the age of 18. Even with parental consent it is illegal to tattoo anyone under the age of 18.

How do I make a booking?
Esk Tattoos accepts walk in bookings, by phone or email

Can I bring my own design?
Yes we are happy to tattoo your own artwork. Many customers bring images from magazines, books, posters, print outs from the internet and their own original illustrations.

Can you draw up an idea for me?
Yes we are happy to work with customers to help them create their perfect artwork. Custom jobs are always welcome.

My tattoo is itchy is this normal?
Tattoos can become itchy during the healing process. It is advised that you resist the urge to scratch it as it may cause damage to the artwork. Products such as Bepanthan First Aid (available from supermarkets and pharmacies) can be applied and will relieve itching and keep your skin moisturised.

My skin is red and inflamed around my tattoo?
If you are worried about any redness or inflammation anywhere surrounding your tattoo, please feel free to come into the studio and we will have a look at any problems you may be having. Although it is rare, it is not uncommon for some people to have a reaction to tattoo inks. Most commonly problems occur due to improper aftercare, so make sure to follow your tattoo artists strict aftercare instructions.

How do I care for my new tattoo?
Now you have your fresh new tattoo, and you want to take good care of it! from this point on your artist is not responsible for any infection or problems you may have with your tattoo if you do not take proper care of it. It is very important that you follow these guidelines. A really beautiful tattoo can turn into a disaster if the proper care is not taken.

Leave that bandage alone!
Your artist took the dare to cover up your new tattoo for a very good reason – to keep air born bacteria from invading your wound. Yes pretty as your new tattoo is, it is still an open wound. Open flesh is a breeding ground for bacteria and infection. Leave the bandage on for a minimum of two hours. Excitement of having a new tattoo will make you want to remove the bandage so you can show your friends, but your friends will just have to wait until later.

Wash and treat
After you remove the bandage, you will want to wash your tattoo. Use lukewarm water and mild soap such as alcohol free, unscented baby soap. Gently wash away any ointment, blood and/or plasma and to completely clean the area. Do not use a washcloth or anything abrasive. Your hand is the best to use in this instance. (if your tattoo feels slimy and slippery you have probably been oozing plasma. Try to remove as much as this as possible – when the plasma dries on the skin surface it creates scabs). Pat dry (do not rub) the area firmly with a CLEAN towel or paper towel to get it completely dry. Follow with a very light application of your choice of ointment. Tattoo Goo or Bepanthan are generally the best options and are easily accessible.

 DO NOT: –

  • go swimming in the ocean, bath, spa or pool for at least 2 weeks
  • pick your tattoo, any scabs or peeling skin
  • touch your tattoo with dirty hands
  • expose your new tattoo to excessive sun
    please feel free to contact us at the studio at any time if you have any further questions or would like to make a booking