Tattoo FAQ and Aftercare

You have decided to get a tattoo! Now you must ask yourself some important questions: What style of tattoo do I want? Where do I want it on my body? How big do I want my tattoo? Do I want color or black and grey? When do I want to get tattooed? What is my budget? Please have an idea of all these questions before contacting your artist for an appointment.

Next, you will want to choose an artist that fits your style. At Bound By Design, we pride ourselves in only offering the best tattoo artists, so you can choose your artist by looking through our portfolios and then contacting the artist directly to set up a consultation. If you still need help with choosing an artist, please come into the shop and talk with one of the artists in person. You may also contact our tattoo manager at boundbydesigndenver@gmail.com and we will set you up with the best possible artist for your tattoo.

Once you have picked your artist, you will need to email them with your idea. Refer to your answers from the questions outlined in Step 1. This will make the process much quicker.

At your consultation your artist will go over your idea and they may take a tracing of your body to help design the placement of you tattoo. For larger tattoos, your artist may want to schedule a second consultation to go over any potential changes in the design.

A deposit is required at the end of your consultation to hold your appointment time; the deposit will come off the total cost of your tattoo at the completion of the tattoo. The deposit is non-refundable. For any other questions, please refer to your individual artist’s cancellation policy.

It is time to get tattooed!

Please show up 10 minutes prior to your appointment to complete all necessary paperwork. A valid, state issued ID is required for all tattoo appointments, even for multiple session tattoos. If you are running behind, please call the shop so we can notify the artist. DO NOT email them.

Eat a well-balanced meal before your appointment. You may also want to eat midway through or after depending on the length of your session.

Drink plenty of water, as hydration is essential for healing.

You must approve your art, so please make sure you love it before changes cannot be made. It’s only forever!

Please regard your appointment as a professional exchange and keep guests to an absolute minimum. We are not equipped to watch your children so please make other arrangements. Disruptions caused by large groups and children will not be tolerated.

Bring cash! Most artist only take cash, and if you wish to pay with card you must discuss this with your artist before the tattoo appointment. We have an ATM available for your convenience.

Gratuity is always appreciated, but never expected. If you are happy with how your tattoo turn out, feel free to let them know with a tip.

Cancellations cannot be handled with the counter people, only with the artist you scheduled with.

Leave your bandage wrap on for 2 hours maximum (unless otherwise specified by your artist). After you remove the bandage, you’ll need to wash your tattoo. Use lukewarm water and unscented antibacterial soap to completely clean the area. Do not use a washcloth or anything abrasive; wash the area gently using only your hand. Pat dry (do not rub) the area with a clean paper towel to get it completely dry. Follow with a very thin application of unscented lotion or ointment suggested by your artist. If you have any concerns, please contact your tattoo artist.

DO NOT USE NEOSPORIN!

SHOWERING, HOT TUBS, AND SWIMMING
You can shower and bathe as normal. We suggest using an antibacterial soap after your normal routine because shampoo and body wash can leave a residue on your skin. After your shower, pat dry with a clean paper towel. Make sure to use a fresh clean towel towels and change into clean clothes as fibers can harbor bacteria. Avoid taking baths for 2-3 weeks. Submerging a tattoo in the bath can cause potential damage.

Do not go in swimming pools or hot tubs. Pools and hot tubs contain chemicals that will dry your tattoo out and cause potentially cause infection, even if you do not submerge your tattoo in the water.

After a couple of days, you might have some peeling and possibly some scabbing. This can vary depending on skin type and area of the body that was tattooed. If scabbing occurs, continue to apply ointment as directed. Do not pick or scratch the tattoo! You will also start to itch, just like a sunburn, when it begins to heal. Your scab will heal with color intact as long as you don’t pick at it. When your skin begins to peel, apply a fragrance-free and dye-free lotion.

Sunlight can have adverse effects on your new tattoo: it can dull the vibrancy and eventually damage the clarity. It’s important to always apply an SPF sunscreen to your tattoo to extend its longevity. Tanning can also have the same effects as sun exposure.