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Q: Will it hurt when I get a tattoo?

A: Simply put, yes. There is some degree of pain involved and the amount really depends on your level of tolerance. If you are scared or have a fear of needles, it's fair to say that some of the pain will come from your fear of the process.

Q: Can the tattoo artist use any type of cream that will numb my skin?

A: Generally speaking, these products are not recommended. You can ask your tattoo artist for specific reasons.

Q: Are tattoos expensive?

A: If it is quality work, yes. Anyone can offer you a deal on a cheap tattoo, but this is going to be a permanent part of your body and you want the work to be something that you are proud of. In a nutshell, you will get what you pay for. When it comes to tattoos, don't cut any corners when it comes to cost and never ask the artist to lower his/her price.

Q: When should I get a tattoo?

A: Many do not realize this, but the sunny months of summer can reek havoc on a tattoo. Therefore, it is often recommended that individuals get tattooed during the winter months when the sun's rays are not as powerful and, therefore, not as damaging to the work itself.

Q: If I am sick, is it still OK for me to get a tattoo?

A: If your immune system is not 100%, getting a tattoo is probably not a good idea. You will need the full strength of your immune system to help with the healing process of your skin, so avoid the process if you are under the weather. Instead, call to reschedule your appointment for a later date when you will be feeling better.

Q: If I have tattoos, is it still OK to get a natural suntan or visit the tanning bed?

A: Even though everyone desires the perfect sunkissed tan, especially in the summer, exposing your tattoo to UV rays/light is not a good idea. This can cause the color in your tattoo, or the artwork itself, to fade. When you are outside in the sun, you can wear sunblock to help protect your tattoo from the sun's damaging rays.

Q: If I have recently gotten a tattoo on my leg, when can I shave again?

A: Because each individual's healing process is unique, there is no universal answer to this question. Your tattoo is a wound and, like all wounds, it needs to heal before you can safely resume shaving. Otherwise, you will continually aggravate the scab or any raised areas that are present on almost every tattoo. Some can resume shaving within 5-10 days, which is often when the new protective layer of skin has surfaced after the final peeling stage. It is best to ask the tattoo artist about the exact stages of the healing process and what to watch for as an indicator of when you can begin shaving again.

Q: I have a friend who recently purchased a tattoo kit and they promised me a really good deal. Is this safe?

A: Absolutely not. Your friend could very well be endangering your health by 'practicing' their skill on you. In order to become a professional tattoo artist, an individual needs to get the proper apprenticeship through a tattoo studio, observe the process and begin practicing on material objects before tattooing people. The apprenticeship usually takes 3-5 years, so there is no way that this type of knowledge can be learned in a kit.

Q: Can I remove the bandage after I get a tattoo so that I can show my friends?

A: This is not a good idea. The bandage is there because the tattoo artist realized the potential for infection if the wound were to be exposed to open air. Leave the bandage on according to the instructions from the tattoo artist.

DISCLAIMER: This article is to be used for informational purposes only. The information contained herein is not intended to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice. Before deciding on getting a tattoo or having one removed, the patient must consult a licensed medical doctor for medical advice and/or to determine the best course of action for his/her individual healthcare needs.