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About The GYPSY - Professional Tattoo Artist and Body Piercer
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
I can accept questions on proper tattooing and piercing procedures, including but not limited to, licensing, sterilization, studio promotion, safety, what to look for in an artist/studio, aftercare, apprenticeship, studio management and proper design/piercing placement. I can also rate artistic quality. We also can answer questions on tattoo/piercing resources, ie; books, videos, studios and artists/piercers. PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING BEFORE ASKING YOUR QUESTION: I will NOT answer "How To" questions. If you want to know how to tattoo or pierce do the right thing and seek out a formal apprenticeship. Tattooing and piercing are not a "Learn On Your Own" professions. ALSO: Please DO NOT ask me about tattoo or piercing prices. Rates vary from region to region. You will need to check with studios in your area for their current rates.

Experience
I was appointed By Kansas Governor Mark Parkinson in September 2009 to the Kansas Board of Cosmetology. I represent Body Art Studios and Artists on the board for the State of Kansas. I am one of only 27 people worldwide certified as a "Master Tattoo Artist" by the Alliance of Professional Tattooists. I have been in the Body Art Business since 1976. I apprenticed as a Tattoo Artist under Gene Grimm of Grimm's Tattoo Studio in Kansas City, Missouri. I took formal classes in Micro-Dermal Implantation (Permanent Cosmetics) in 1990. I had formal Body Piercing Training in 1992.

Organizations
Alliance Of Professional Tattooists and Kansas State Board of Cosmetology

Publications
"STANDARD PERIODICAL" FEBRUARY 1974 "TEEN TODAY" MARCH 1974 "ABILENE MAGAZINE" JUNE 1981 "SCOUT JAMBOREE PROGRAM" NOVEMBER 1981 "PRONGHORN PRESS" DECEMBER 1981, FEBRUARY 1982, MARCH 1983, MAY 1983 "ENEWS" JUNE 1983, JUNE 1986 "EL PASO SUN TIMES" OCTOBER 1985 "BAXTER CITIZEN" AUGUST 1992 "TATTOO" OCTOBER 1992 "TATTOO" MARCH 1993 "BAXTER CITIZEN" JUNE 1993 "SKIN & INK" APRIL 1994 "PARSONS TIMES" APRIL 1995 "CROSSROADS" SPRING 1995 "PITTSBURG SUN" APRIL 1995, APRIL 1996 & APRIL 1997 "JOPLIN GLOBE" OCTOBER 1996 "ASC TATTOO DIRECTORY" 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 "AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS" JANUARY 1999 "EASYRIDER MAGAZINE" OCTOBER 2001 "HISTORY OF TATTOOING IN AMERICA" "A COMPLETE GUIDE TO TATTOOING" Please visit http://ubtat2d.com/new.html To View A Complete List Of Other Media That I Have Been Featured In.

Education/Credentials
West Platte High School - Weston, Missouri United States Department of Agriculture: Forestry and Wildlife Management - Nemo, South Dakota Platte College (in conjunction with Kansas City Art Institute): Technical Illustration and Mechanical Drafting - St. Joseph and Kansas City, Missouri Grimms Tattoo Studio: Tattoo Apprenticeship - Kansas City, Missouri Missouri Department of Mental Health: Psychiatric Technician - St. Joseph, Missouri Conch Career Institute: CDL Training - San Angelo, Texas Institute of Micro-Dermal Implantation: Permanent Cosmetic Technician - Kansas City, Kansas Sir Fredrick's School of Body Piercing: Body Piercer Trainee - Gladstone, Missouri

Awards and Honors
SKIN ART CREATIONS TATTOO SHOW - 1993, "BEST BLACK & GREY TATTOO" SKIN ART CREATIONS TATTOO SHOW - 1993, "BEST OVER-ALL TATTOO MALE" TATTOO RENDEZVOUS - 1993, "BEST OVER-ALL TATTOO - MALE" TATTOO RENDEZVOUS - 1993, CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FOR PARTICIPATION THE GATHERING PLACE - 1994, CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION FOR ARTISTIC TALENT LION'S CLUB INTERNATIONAL - 1994, CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION AS GUEST SPEAKER SKIN ART CREATIONS TATTOO SHOW - 1994, "BEST TRADITIONAL TATTOO" TATTOO RENDEZVOUS - 1994, CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FOR PARTICIPATION STURGINK - 1995, 2ND PLACE "BEST COLOR TATTOO" STURGINK - 1995, 3RD PLACE "BEST TATTOO OF STURGIS" HAWG HAWLER - 1996, 2ND PLACE "BEST TATTOOS" SKIN ART CREATIONS TATTOO SHOW - 1997, "BEST FRONT PANEL" 25th ANNIVERSARY REUNION CONVENTION - 1/19/2001, 2nd PLACE "BEST TATTOO OF THE DAY" ABATE OF TULSA MOTORCYCLE & TATTOO SHOW - MARCH 2002, 1st PLACE "BEST PATRIOTIC TATTOO" ABATE OF TULSA MOTORCYCLE & TATTOO SHOW - MARCH 2002, 3rd PLACE "MOST REALISTIC TATTOO" BIKER DAYS IN THE OSAGE - SEPTEMBER 2007, "BEST TATTOO OF SHOW" APT TATTOO MASTERY TEST - JULY 2008, "CERTIFICATE OF TATTOO MASTERY" MAYFIT - MAY 2009, "BEST TATTOO OF SHOW"

Past/Present Clients
I tattoo/pierce over 1200 people per year. Multiply that by 31 years and I have tattooed and/or pierced approx. 37,200 people.

The GYPSY founder of Skin Art Creations Tattoo Emporium® is a State of Kansas licensed Tattoo & Piercing Artist & Trainer and has been in the Tattoo & Piercing Industry since 1976. He is a Professional Member of APT (Alliance of Professional Tattooist), and has taken and passed the APT Tattoo Mastery Test. His formal art training and experience has helped him win numerous awards both Nationally and Internationally. The GYPSY's art has been exhibited in museums World wide, including the Smithsonian. He has also appeared on television, documentaries, albums, radio talk shows and in numerous magazines. Along with his Wife Debbie they have developed and maintained numerous projects including resource and shopping sites. WE INVITE YOU TO VIST THESE SITES: www.ubtat2d.com - www.ablazable.com - www.emerald-city.us - www.sekpress.net - www.freaky-links.com and www.pluribusunum.net

   

You are here:  Experts > Style > Tattoo/Body Piercing > Tattoos

Questions Answered By Expert  The GYPSY - Professional Tattoo Artist and Body Piercer 
In Category  Tattoos

SubjectDate Asked

white ink11/19/2009
  Q: i got a white ink tatttoo but my ink is greeenish grayish in color ... do you no what might have ...
  A: Stephanie, White pigment is a difficult element to keep in the skin. If your skins PH levels are to ...
swollen11/14/2009
  Q: i have 5 tatoos, i have 2 that seem to randomly swell up, 1 at the bottom of my back and 1 on my ...
  A: Andy, Most often there are two cause for this... Poor pigment with impurities or too deep of an ...
nose-piercing11/12/2009
  Q: i've just had my nose pierced today, and i have had slight sinus problems this week. however, i did ...
  A: Nina, Sinus problems can cause a severe infection in the piercing. The bacteria that cause MRSA ...
Tattoo healing problem11/10/2009
  Q: My new tattoo is beautiful except for one small spot, where the skin is rough and has some whitish ...
  A: Sherrys, It sounds like what you are describing is a dead skin area. That is a place where old skin ...
Tattoo business plans11/8/2009
  Q: I'm writing a business plan on a tattoo shop, besides interviews do you know where I can obtain ...
  A: Damario, Start with http://www.safe-tattoos.com That is the official website for the Alliance of ...
what do i do if a tattoo artist keeps moving?11/5/2009
  Q: I want to go to a specific artist for my second tattoo, but it seems that every six months or so she ...
  A: Ashley, Interesting question. It has been my experience that when a tattooist constantly changes ...
Long Term Care: can massage affect my tattoo?10/27/2009
  Q: I was thinking of getting a professional massage (possibly on a continuing basis) and was wondering ...
  A: Julie, As long as the tattoo is healed you should have no concern about damage from massage ...
Is A Licence Required10/25/2009
  Q: I have search on line and can not find the answer. If you wish to become a Tattoo Artist, is a ...
  A: Cynthia, The answer to your question is "YES" you need a license or you are in violation of the ...
Hand Tattoo10/24/2009
  Q: I have just got a tattoo on my hand above my pinky finger and the bone of my wrist by a place called ...
  A: Lynsay, Tattoos below the wrist do not last but they should be visible for a while at least, if ...
becoming a tattoo artist10/23/2009
  Q: I was wondering if you could tell how i could become a tattoo artist. Where i could go to school for ...
  A: TJ, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist or ...
Tattoo after Laser Removal.10/21/2009
  Q: I had about 12 sessions of Tattoo Laser removal performed about 4 years ago. The tattoo was quite ...
  A: Cheryl, You are proof of what I have said for years: "Nothing is forever except, God, Diamonds, ...
Ink Rejection10/20/2009
  Q: I got my tattoo on Thursday and it is now Tuesday and all of the ink is completely gone. The blood ...
  A: Tara, To outline with color is not the proper thing to do, especially with a light color like pink. ...
Allergy10/19/2009
  Q: I just got my 7th tattoo on my fore arm. It is a huge black wrap-around bracelet, and it seems that ...
  A: Anais, You do not need to get your tattoo removed! All you have to do is stop using any creams, ...
Collar bone tattoo?10/17/2009
  Q: I've been thinking about getting another tattoo for a while now. The design is one a close friend of ...
  A: Ashley, People's tolerance for pain varies from person to person. What might be painful for one may ...
tattoo discolouration10/15/2009
  Q: I got an all black tattoo in the middle of my back exactly 10 days ago. since then it has formed a ...
  A: Laechelle, Usually what causes this is one of two things. Either the tattooist did not work the ...
NOSE PIERCING BLEEDING10/14/2009
  Q: I HAD MY NOSE PIERCED FOR THE 3RD TIME IN THE LAST MAYBE 7 YEARS SAME SIDE NEW HOLE , HOWEVER THIS ...
  A: Wendy, First and foremost stop using the sea salt. Salt eats the skin and is not good for piercing ...
i think my tattoo is too dry10/13/2009
  Q: i got a pirate flag on my calf 6 days ago ive been using a%26d ointment until two days ago. i cant ...
  A: Jon, It sounds like you have a layer of dead skin over the tattoo. If it has no more scabbing you ...
tattoo over skin graft10/12/2009
  Q: i have a scar on the side of my arm wrapping around the under side of my wrist.it is from skin ...
  A: Jess, Any skilled, qualified, licensed and experienced tattooist should be able to cover your scar ...
custom ethics help!!!10/11/2009
  Q: I am getting a new tattoo in a few weeks and i need some advice. the tats i have gotten in the past ...
  A: Susie, When you pick a design from a Tattoo Flash Design Sheet the tattooist is copying something. ...
Shirt10/10/2009
  Q: I'm going to go get my first tat in a few days. Its on my upper arm. I have some scars on my chest ...
  A: Jackie, With a tattoo located on the upper arm I see no reason whatsoever for you to have to remove ...
Itchy rash on a 3 month old tatto10/9/2009
  Q: I have this really itchy rash just in one certain area of my newest tattoo. I think they are hives, ...
  A: Jennifer, You may be having an allergic reaction to that particular pigment but without seeing the ...
peeling around the tattoo10/8/2009
  Q: I have gotten a tattoo that is on the majority of my foot and goes upward a little on my ankle. my ...
  A: Daphne, It sounds like you may have a dead skin build up around and maybe even on the tattoo. Start ...
redness and swelling10/5/2009
  Q: I had a tattoo done on my leg 7 days ago. First there was yellowish stuff, now it is dry but very ...
  A: Cyndi, YES! IMMEDIATELY! You are describing a severe infection. With the risk of MRSA, Staph and ...
Crooked lettering... too small?10/3/2009
  Q: I got my geek tattoo done about 3 weeks ago. I got it done at a well-known shop from an artist with ...
  A: Ryan, The tattooist told you the truth, that is probably about as small as the numbers can go, any ...
Black ink swelling10/1/2009
  Q: why is the blank ink in my ten year old tattoo? Just out of the blue sometimes I will reach to ...
  A: Chris, It is possible for impurities in old tattoo pigment to work their way to the surface after ...
Raised Tattoo9/29/2009
  Q: I got a tattoo of an outline of a horse on the inside of my foot on July 26. It looked terrible so I ...
  A: Chelsea, If it is that badly scarred you should wait at least 60 days before getting it fixed. ...
covering rosacea9/28/2009
  Q: i would like to know if i can cover my rosacea with skin color ink close to my complexion? i have ...
  A: Nick, It is never advisable to tattoo over any skin condition as it can cause complications such as ...
bumps9/25/2009
  Q: okay recently i got a foot piece done my first color tattoo and there are bumps where the artist put ...
  A: Kacey, It sounds like you may have had an allergic reaction to whatever healing compound you are ...
minor tattoo correction9/24/2009
  Q: I recently got a tattoo as an homage to my late dad. I realized just today that instead of the ...
  A: Megan, I looked at the tattoo and I would say that a skilled, qualified, experienced tattooist ...
Virgin/Tiger/Lily9/23/2009
  Q: I don't have any tattoos yet and I never thought about getting one until recelty but I was thinking ...
  A: Laura, This is a question that can be answered by no one but you. You are the only one that can ...
Allergic Reaction to Red Ink8/2/2009
  Q: So I just got a tattoo exactly one week ago (July 25) on my right calf and I am having an ...
  A: Wilson, Polysporin and A&D are not the same thing. Polysporin has compounds in it that can ...
Swelling and Pimples7/30/2009
  Q: I received a very detailed sleeve on my right arm. The work was a total of 13 hours between 3 ...
  A: Chris, If you are still using ointments on the tattoo stop immediately! You may be having an ...
tattoo placement7/29/2009
  Q: ..(nothing major like pro weigh lifting but to get a bit bigger while i lift as i play college ...
  A: Corey, Either place will expand as muscle mass is gained. I would advice you wait until your ...
Rash or Allergic reaction7/28/2009
  Q: I got a tattoo of a butterfly on my upper back in the middle. Well after a few days of healing and ...
  A: Jennifer, You've got two problems. First, you have had an allergic reaction to the A&D ointment. Do ...
Red ink7/26/2009
  Q: I got a tattoo on my foot about 2 weeks ago, it started out fine but about 3 days ago I noticed a ...
  A: Lindsay, It is very possible that you are having an allergic reaction to the red pigment. Continue ...
Tattoo color - dark tan7/24/2009
  Q: I am a very pale white woman who would like single color tat of a lace design in a dark tan or oak ...
  A: Donna, The reason you have been told no is because of the chemical make up of the pigments. Colored ...
tattoo inside the mouth7/22/2009
  Q: is it possible to tattoo the gums ,i have black on the front of my gum from when i broke a tooth ...
  A: Aneurin, It is possible but it will not last due to the acids in your mouth. I hope this has been ...
decorating an arm scar7/19/2009
  Q: I'd like to decorate a scar on my left, upper arm. I'm thinking of a zipper open at the scar and ...
  A: Tom, A skilled tattooist familiar with scar covers should have no problem coloring your scar ...
reaction7/18/2009
  Q: I have got a few cover up tattoos about 4 months ago. I am having problems with one. Its a flower ...
  A: Jimmy, More than likely that is exactly what happened... You have had a red reaction. It is a rare ...
goo from tattoo7/5/2009
  Q: I just got a Tattoo with color in it done july-3-09. which was last night. the color leaks i know ...
  A: Kimberly, You may be putting too much ointment on the tattoo. Only use enough to barely moisturize ...
placement7/3/2009
  Q: so i was thinking of getting a tattoo on my forearm. I have heard if you pierce your ear on the left ...
  A: Ashley, It makes no difference where you get your tattoo. It is a matter of personal preference. ...
losing ink7/1/2009
  Q: i got a tattoo coverup on my chest and i have been cleaning it regularly and doing everything that ...
  A: Colleen, You may be over cleaning your tattoo. Please visit my FAQ page at ...
Irritation to the color red6/30/2009
  Q: I have a new tattoo that is about 5-months old. There is a lot of red in it. I must be having some ...
  A: Nancy, You are having what is commonly known as "RED REACTION" It is an allergic reaction to the ...
Tattoo6/29/2009
  Q: my question is i just got a tattoo and i was wondering if i can put coco buter lotion on it after ...
  A: Enyewu, No, it is not OK to put Coco Butter on a new tattoo. Please visit my FAQ page at ...
tattooing without a license6/28/2009
  Q: My son has tattoo different people including myself, his mom. He doesnt have a license, he has done ...
  A: Suzie, When someone tattoos or pierces without a license they are breaking the law. Laws are made ...
swimming after piercing6/27/2009
  Q: My daughter is on a swim team and is begging to have her ears pierced. Would she be able to swim ...
  A: Kellie, It would really be advisable for your daughter to wait about 10 days before swimming ...
Studio Suggestions and Red Reactions6/25/2009
  Q: First, I'd like to ask you if you could recommend a shop near the Hampton Roads area of VA. I'm sure ...
  A: Jamie, The organic pigments do not last and if you have allergies to plants or animals they are ill ...
swollen tattoo (ribs)6/18/2009
  Q: My ribs tat extends from my armpit to my hip and is three days old. The very bottom is the largest ...
  A: Ashleyy, It is normal for a tattoo to be a little red and swollen a couple of days after it is ...
preparing for first tattoo6/15/2009
  Q: im currently in the process of planning my first tattoo. it is a very large and detailed floral and ...
  A: Shauna, Prep is different for different people. One thing you can do during the tattoo is have a ...
Tattoo6/14/2009
  Q: I want to get a tattoo on the top of my back from shoulder to shoulder.I don't want a big tattoo ...
  A: Onyl, Skin is flexible and as our muscle mass or weight increases new skin cells form and the skin ...
raised outline6/13/2009
  Q: The outlines of all my tattoos are raised and itchy. They are all different colors and all ...
  A: Amy, There are several things that could be wrong: 1. The tattoos may have been overworked by an ...
Tattoo6/12/2009
  Q: it is on my right calf an also it has swollin a little and is red around the tattoo and is still ...
  A: Stuart, You may have an infection. I would strongly recommend that you contact a physician as soon ...
Piercing rejection/tattoo rejection6/11/2009
  Q: My friend has been searching all over the internet to find an answer, and I've been trying to look ...
  A: Jessica, It sounds to me as if your friend may have an allergy to metals. If that is the case she ...
Tatoo5/22/2009
  Q: I got one on my foot its a nautical star I got it sunday and here it is thursday and its still all ...
  A: Nicole, No it is not normal... It sounds like you are having a severe infection. Please consult ...
Fading new tattoo4/25/2009
  Q: I got a tattoo less than 2 weeks ago, and I am unhappy with the color. I would like to get it ...
  A: Cheka, No, I do not recommend that you try these methods! Experimenting in that way is very ...
Tattoos just not coming out the way they should4/24/2009
  Q: I have had a really hard time holding in ink PERIOD. I scab up everytime almost immediately. I take ...
  A: John, For a list of proper care instructions please visit my FAQ page at ...
The meaning of a tattoo4/23/2009
  Q: My brother drew a the tattoo he wants me to get but he said I had to get it on my left shoulder, ...
  A: Erin, There is absolutely no reason for the tattoo to be placed on your left shoulder. Placement of ...
Tattoo on the palm of my hand4/22/2009
  Q: Is it a good idea to get a tattoo on the inside palm on my hand? I have heard that the top of the ...
  A: Melody, The hand is a high wear area and tattoos there require constant touch-up. They usually do ...
Keloids on wrist4/20/2009
  Q: I am a 28 year old white female that seems to be somewhat prone to forming keloids. I was stabbed ...
  A: Sarah, If you are prone to Keloid scarring I strongly advice that you do not get tattooed. ...
blistery tattoo4/19/2009
  Q: i a new tattoo on my shoulder 3 days ago. i have another large one on my back and had no healing ...
  A: Kendra, If you are having an allergic reaction to the A&D ointment you will need to discontinue use ...
apprenticeship question4/18/2009
  Q: I am an aspiring tattoo artist and want to know how to go about getting an apprenticeship. Can you ...
  A: Mikail, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist or ...
Swelling question4/17/2009
  Q: I got my first tattoo Wednesday, It's a flame cuff around my wrist and halfway up my forearm. It's ...
  A: Brett, Definitely sounds like you may have an infection. I would strongly advise that you consult a ...
Glossy Tattoo4/16/2009
  Q: I got a tattoo last weekend and it scabbed up pretty bad. When in the shower, the whole scab came ...
  A: Kumiko, Unfortunately if the scab comes off too soon, which it appears that yours did, the color ...
rash around, but not on ink4/2/2009
  Q: I got a tattoo on the back of my neck on sunday (today is wednesday) and everything was fine until ...
  A: Sarah, You are having an allergic reaction to the ointment you used. Discontinue use immediately of ...
Belly Button Piercing3/30/2009
  Q: I have a couple questions about my new belly button piercing. Last week was when I got it pierced, ...
  A: Adrienne, You should turn the ring while cleaning to remove dirt and dead skin cells. I strongly ...
lighten tattoo3/26/2009
  Q: i have a 3 month old Lotus tattoo on my inner wrist love the tattoo design but mildly unhappy with ...
  A: Victoria, Lighter colors will not go over darker colors. The colors are translucent and darker will ...
Tattoo extremely cloudy3/25/2009
  Q: Got a wrist tattoo done a week ago, its my 7th tat. This is the first time I had ALOT of thick ...
  A: Christina, Yes, you can use Vitamin E Oil but it does not do the same job the Baby oil does. I ...
tattoo license3/11/2009
  Q: I live in longview tx and I want to open a tattoo shop I already have a building I just need the ...
  A: Eric, You will have to contact your local city and county clerks and see what type of local ...
pregnancy after getting a tatto3/10/2009
  Q: I want to get a tattoo on my hip at my waist line, but of course I don't want it to stretch when I ...
  A: Jewel, Keeping the skin moist and pliant during pregnancy can reduce stretch marks and help ...
Itchy and painful3/9/2009
  Q: I got a tattoo on the lower middle of my back about 3 months ago. I have no idea if this is from the ...
  A: Julie, I would strongly advise that you seek out medical advise. It sounds to me like the tattooist ...
Stretch Marks Covered then pregnant again3/8/2009
  Q: I just had a baby 7 months ago and im thinking of getting a full tattoo covering all the stretch ...
  A: Chanel, That would depend on how bad the stretch marks are. Worse case scenario is that you may ...
Tatts on Scars3/7/2009
  Q: I have been told by friends that I could have acne and old scars from chicken pox easily disguised ...
  A: Paula, Though cosmetic tattooing is used to disguise blemish's it only works if the blemish is a ...
aftercare3/6/2009
  Q: i have a red rash on my currently completed tattoo and after reading your answers and advice to ...
  A: Rob, There should be no long lasting effects. Wait until the rash has been gone for 30 days and ...
new art3/3/2009
  Q: i am doing a project on New art versus Traditional in tattooing and i was wondering if you could ...
  A: Shauna, I have had your question sent to my email. As soon as I have a moment I will write down my ...
Tattoo over birthmark3/2/2009
  Q: I have a birthmark on the back of my leg and i am thinking about getting a tattoo over it, I was ...
  A: Chad, You should never tattoo over a birthmark or other skin abnormality because of the increased ...
tanning for a new tattoo?2/28/2009
  Q: Hey I just got a new tattoo on my foot and I want to tan in the next few days. I don't mind that ...
  A: Amy, No it is not OK to tan even if you cover it. The body perceives a tattoo as a second degree ...
Ankle and leg tattoo2/27/2009
  Q: I had a pretty large tattoo put on my ankle and lower part of my leg a week ago, the pain is not ...
  A: Beth, Often times tattoos on the extremities will react in much the same way that a sprain reacts. ...
Tattoos and economy2/26/2009
  Q: I've seen articles discussing how tattoo shops seem to be recession proof? Do you think this is ...
  A: Ivonne, Art in general has always seemed to be recession proof. Just like with the entertainment ...
burning myself2/25/2009
  Q: i am 16 years old and want to burn a print on to my body by myself. i have heard of kids doing this ...
  A: Forrest, What you should know is DO NOT DO IT! I have made this public in the hopes that your ...
blowouttt2/24/2009
  Q: Hey, I got my first tattoo, about a week ago. I got a small pink heart with a black outline on my ...
  A: Amber, Based on what you have described it is indeed tattooist error and will not just go away. ...
bumps around tattoo.2/23/2009
  Q: i got my first tattoo on valentines day of this year. the guy used clean needles, he shaved my ...
  A: Jessica, You have experienced an allergic reaction to the healing compound you are using. I would ...
Rash2/22/2009
  Q: I got a tattoo on each wrist exactly two weeks ago, and recently I've started to notice small red ...
  A: Benjamin, You have experienced an allergic reaction to the healing compound you are using. I would ...
Post-Tattoo2/21/2009
  Q: I've had my tattoo for about a week now and it seems as if it is starting to scab up. I have a ...
  A: Chris, If you are seeing flesh tones through the pigment or if you are missing color you will need ...
ugly tattoo2/20/2009
  Q: i have a very ugly tattoo that takes up most of my shoulder/bicep... I'm finding it very hard to ...
  A: Sydney, I have seen tattoos worse than yours that I have been able to cover. You just haven't ...
Foot Tattoo2/19/2009
  Q: I want to get a tattoo on the arch of my foot. Not on the bottom, or on the outer portion - but in ...
  A: Nyah, Foot tattoos are the most painful of all tattoos and they usually do not last without ...
tattoo healing process2/18/2009
  Q: Hey I got my 1st tattoo on my wrist last thursday and the scab formed quite quickly, the 1st few ...
  A: Emma, In my opinion Tattoo Goo is one of the worst things you can use on a healing tattoo. It does ...
Tattoo on a scar from heart surgery2/16/2009
  Q: I’m a 31 years old woman. When I was nine I underwent heart surgery. As a consequence, I have a ...
  A: Sonia, Yes I do have experience with scar cover-ups. I am the one that developed and refined the ...
is this normal peeling?2/15/2009
  Q: I got a tat on my lower hip and its peeled a very bright color. But I got it done a couple days ...
  A: Barbie, If the protective crust comes off before it is suppose to then your tattoo can end up ...
piercing2/14/2009
  Q: i just had my belly button pierced a little over 2 weeks ago. Things are going great... i think it's ...
  A: Jane, Different people have different scar healing. Some may not be noticible while others may ...
MILD SOAP2/13/2009
  Q: I got my first tattoo today and I was wondering exactly what kind of soap is okay to use to wash it ...
  A: Cherish, You should NEVER wash a fresh tattoo. Please visit my FAQ page at ...
tattoos and vitiligo2/11/2009
  Q: Why is it bad to get a tattoo on skin affected by vitiligo? counld you point me in the direction on ...
  A: Amanda, You should never get a tattoo on any abnormal skin condition including birth marks and ...
Stained skin around nose piercing!2/9/2009
  Q: Please help me with this issue! I had a nose piercing for about 3 years and it left a black/grayish ...
  A: Jessica, Unfortunately I do not have good news for you. Whatever piece of jewelry you had in your ...
Is the ink in my blood stream??2/7/2009
  Q: I recently got a white ink tattoo on my inner wrist "Nothing gold can stay" and then got the tattoo ...
  A: Rachel, The chances of pigment being in your blood stream is remote if not impossible. Sometimes ...
rash like bumps2/6/2009
  Q: have had a full arm tattoo for about a year now.. i have alot of others. but this is the only one ...
  A: Amy, There may be impurities in the pigment that was used and in much the same way that the body ...
Rash like appearance near and around tattoo2/5/2009
  Q: I got my tattoo a couple of weeks ago, it is spread across my lower back, and I have been following ...
  A: Jackie, You are probably experiencing an allergic reaction to whatever healing compound you are ...
Love birds tattoo2/4/2009
  Q: Hey, I was wondering what the significance was of a tattoo with the disgn in the image is. And ...
  A: Amanda, The design is a "Swallow" design. There are a couple of standard meanings for the design. ...
stretching tattoos during pregnancy2/3/2009
  Q: i want to get a tattoo on both hips of nuatical stars, and i just wonder if thats too high up and ...
  A: Nicole, I cannot tell you where on your body to get a tattoo. That is a personal choice for you, ...
tattoo artist career2/2/2009
  Q: Hey I've been contemplating the idea of becoming a tattoo artist since I was 13. Im now 17 and ...
  A: Laura, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist or ...
tattoo itching years later1/31/2009
  Q: My first tat I got back in 2001, it still itches occasionally, it has gotten a lot better tho. I ...
  A: Addie, You are not allergic to the pigment, rather you are allergic to some compound in the ...
Tattoo breaking open after 2 years!1/30/2009
  Q: I have just noticed that my tattoos ( both of them , 1 on my back and 1 on my upper arm ) have just ...
  A: Preston, Without seeing the tattoo it will be hard for me to tell you what is going on. If you ...
Tattoo help1/26/2009
  Q: I got a tattoo a week ago today and got a rash from the A&D ointment the parlor told me to use so i ...
  A: Steve, When having an allergic reaction to any ointment, cream or lotion the best thing you can do ...
my hand feel asleep during tattoo...1/25/2009
  Q: I went in to get a large cover up on my lower back, about an hour in my right hand started tingling, ...
  A: Shannon, If you sat for a long time you may have thrown your back out of alignment. I usually ...
The real skinny on tattoo specific lotions/products1/24/2009
  Q: I got a tattoo on my right leg below the knee about 3.5 weeks ago and it is now fully healed and ...
  A: Derick, First and foremost Tattoo Goo is junk. Do not use it. It is only sold by shops that are ...
outline1/23/2009
  Q: I got a tattoo about a year and a half ago and it faded a bit. I doesn't show up as much as i'd like ...
  A: Samalia, If your skin is very dark have your tattooist use a dark uncut purple for the outline. The ...
scratching my tattoo when i sleep1/22/2009
  Q: i got my first tattoo on my wrist 4 days ago and i have no problems with it apart from i wake myself ...
  A: Catherine, If the protective crust that forms is knocked or picked off and not allowed to flake off ...
shiny tattoo1/21/2009
  Q: I just got a quarter sleve on my right arm 5 days ago. The first 2 days I used Bacitracin, then when ...
  A: Chris, First and foremost, the compounds you used on your tattoo are some of the worst things you ...
tattoo design1/20/2009
  Q: I am looking to get a tattoo in memory of 3 people very close to me who died in the past 2 years. I ...
  A: Amanda, This is something that I cannot help you with. The choice of a tattoo to honor someone is a ...
tattoo1/18/2009
  Q: i had a tattoo jan.16th 2009 done and i don't like it. i want to cover it with another design.mine ...
  A: Brandy, The minimum amount of time you should wait is 30 days. However ideally you should wait 90 ...
Swelling of foot1/16/2009
  Q: I had a tattoo done on my left outer ankle on Tuesday. My left foot has come to a sudden swelling ...
  A: Amber, Tattoos on the extremities, legs and arms sometimes have a tendency to react as if a muscle ...
white ink1/13/2009
  Q: hey i have had 3 large tattos - all using black ink with large areas being shade and have always ...
  A: Christopher, Unless the tattoo is hot to the touch, seeping, sore and red you should have no ...
keloid Art1/12/2009
  Q: I'm a 42 year African American male. I've always been impressed with some examples of traditional ...
  A: Acarphinus, There are a lot of studios that do scarification art. Check studios in your region for ...
Sterilization process?1/11/2009
  Q: I have just a few questions, and then a favor. I love tattoos and have a few and plan on getting ...
  A: ChrisZ, There is nothing anywhere that says that a woman and even a man cannot have tattoos on ...
tragus infected1/8/2009
  Q: I think my tragus piercing disinfected since there is a red bump that formed around it along with a ...
  A: Jestra, You will need to contact a physician for treatment. Do not remove the ring as it may trap ...
Red Bumps1/5/2009
  Q: I just recently got a sleeve piece on my left arm about 5 days ago. I few days later I started ...
  A: Davey, Normally I would have said that you had an allergic reaction to the healing ointment you ...
Infected tattoo1/4/2009
  Q: Hey. I got my first tattoo 2 Saturdays ago,and during what i want to believe was the healing ...
  A: Casha, Triple anti-biotic ointment is the worst thing you can use on a tattoo. You have had an ...
Numbing creams12/28/2008
  Q: I am busy looking around for my first tattoo and seem to be leaning in the direction of a large one ...
  A: Brian, First and foremost if your friend vomited while getting a tattoo he either has a very low ...
tattoos and never damage12/26/2008
  Q: i had a tattoo done in Oct of 2007 now all of the sudden i am having nerve problems with it it is on ...
  A: Elizabeth, You may be having other problems that are not associated with the tattoo at all. I would ...
Tiny Bumps on 4 month old tattoo12/25/2008
  Q: About 4 months ago I got a tattoo on my inner arm; it takes up my entire inner arm, has lots of ...
  A: Jen, Usually what is happening in situations like this is that the body is rejecting impurities in ...
Acne12/23/2008
  Q: i have a little bit of acne on my back and some scares from when it healed. i wanted to know if i ...
  A: Tiffique, I would strongly recomeend that you wait until the condition clears before getting ...
tattoo12/21/2008
  Q: I got a tattoo a little over a week ago and have been washing it with anti-bacterial soap and ...
  A: Sam, Hand lotion is one of the worst things you can put on a tattoo. You are having an allergic ...
new tattoo12/19/2008
  Q: I just got my tattoo done last night.Its the second night now, and my ankle is the size of a small ...
  A: Meagan, Tattoos on the extremities, legs, ankles, wrists and arms sometimes have a tendency to ...
apprenticeships12/16/2008
  Q: i am looking to get an apprenticeship as a tattoo artist and wondering if you had any tips or info. ...
  A: Sarah, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist or ...
red pimples??12/15/2008
  Q: I know that probably youve been asked a lot about this, but I got my first tattoo about 3 weeks ago, ...
  A: Natalie, What you are experiencing is an allergic reaction to the healing compounds you used. You ...
complications of self tattooing?12/14/2008
  Q: D When i was younger i always wanted to be a tattoo artist Now I'm 14 years old and I've been ...
  A: Cher, YOU SHOULD NOT BE TATTOOING YOURSELF! Especially at 14 years of age. There is a whole lot of ...
ichthyosis and tattoos12/12/2008
  Q: I have x-linked ichthyosis, which is simply really dry skin all over my body. I was also looking ...
  A: Zak, The dry skin will cause the tattoos to look ashy. Also you stand the risk of having dead skin ...
tattoo12/11/2008
  Q: how long do you have to use a&d onitment on a tattoo?
  A: Chanda, The normal time period is 7 - 10 Days. For a complete list of aftercare instuctions please ...
advice about prices...12/8/2008
  Q: I am not sure if I am being overcharged so maybe you can help. I just gave $325 for a tattoo of ...
  A: Lee, Prices vary from region to region, studio to studio and tattooist to tattooist. What a person ...
Labret12/7/2008
  Q: I recently got my lip pierced last week and i have a 16g stud in. I noticed yesterday when i woke up ...
  A: MG, First and foremost your piercer should not have cut your lip unless he has had proper medical ...
tattoo12/6/2008
  Q: I recently have gotten my second tattoo and have been using a&d ointment on it. a couple days after, ...
  A: Emily, You have experienced an allergic reaction to the A&D ointment. You have done the right thing ...
Tatoos over stretch marks.12/4/2008
  Q: I am an 18 year old college student and have been worrying about my stretch marks ever since they ...
  A: CM, Any qualified, experienced, licensed and professional studio should be able to do the work for ...
thigh tattoo12/3/2008
  Q: I got a thigh tattoo yesterday. I noticed last night that the pain was more severe than any other ...
  A: Liz, Tattoos on the extremities, legs and arms sometimes have a tendency to react as if a muscle ...
4 yr old tat raised today....11/27/2008
  Q: I have a 4 year old tattoo on my ankle that I noticed was very itchy today and realized it is bumpy ...
  A: Brandy, The pigment that was originally used on your tattoo may have had some impurities in it. In ...
TATTOO THAT BLED11/26/2008
  Q: i just got a tattoo---and it seems that a small part of the outline bled and kinda looks crappy --i ...
  A: Susan, If the outline bled then you may have been the victim of an unskilled tattooist. There are ...
soul-patch piercing11/24/2008
  Q: I have heard that soul-patch piercings can cause gum damage. Is that true? If so, is there ...
  A: Ski, The LABRET piercing can cause damage to the gums if it is not properly aligned as it will rub ...
licence11/23/2008
  Q: did they really do away with the licecing on tattoos...
  A: Angel, Every State, County and City in the United States now has licensing requirements for ...
finding a tattoo artist11/18/2008
  Q: I've been looking for a good tattoo artist to tattoo my penis and the area around it. I live NW of ...
  A: Patrick, I am going to direct you to The Jade Dragon Tattoo. You can check them out by going to ...
Piercing Test11/17/2008
  Q: My father has pierced for more than 10 years, and the state that we live in has now required to be ...
  A: Brandy, First and foremost if the State failed to notify him then he should file a complaint with ...
Hives on a Tattoo after it has healed11/16/2008
  Q: I have had a tattoo for bout 7 to 9 week then all the sudden I started to get hives or an iritated ...
  A: David, Did you see the State issued license? If not or if the person was not working in a ...
Tattoo Allergie Question11/13/2008
  Q: I got a tattoo almost 2 months ago without any problems. I am very sensitive and allergic to many ...
  A: Blake D, I have never heard of anaphylaxis shock happening with any tattoo let alone years later. ...
Tattoo11/11/2008
  Q: I got a tattoo in 5/07 and now it is itching really bad, red and scaly can you let me know what I ...
  A: Erin, Your body may be rejecting the pigment. If there were inpurities in the pigment they may lay ...
Tattoo shop11/10/2008
  Q: I am thinking about opening a shop in ohio. What kind of licenses do I need and how do I get them? ...
  A: Dustin, You will need to check with the Ohio Department of Health for a list of rules and ...
tattoo.. pen ink.. numb11/9/2008
  Q: i used an needle wit pen ink to tat a name on my right wrist in july.. now from my top wrist to half ...
  A: Becca, What you did to yourself was extremely ignorant and extremely dangerous. You may be ...
painkillers11/8/2008
  Q: I want to get a tattoo but i was wondering if there is anything I shouldn't take while getting one ...
  A: Stacey, Ibuprofen should have no effect on the tattoo at all. There are certain medications, such ...
what should i get and how much would it be?11/7/2008
  Q: ok i have always wanted to get a tattoo but never had the money and now i have a job. i have been ...
  A: Sean, Neither I nor anyone else can advise you on what tattoo is best for you. That is a matter of ...
Tattoo Healing11/6/2008
  Q: Gypsy, I had a tattoo done on my forearm about three weeks ago now. I followed the aftercare ...
  A: John, Not only did you over treat the tattoo but you also used the wrong things to treat it with. ...
Ink Allergy?11/5/2008
  Q: Gypsy - I got my masterpieve two months ago, over Labor day weekend. Of course, being young and dumb ...
  A: Tony, What you are experiencing is an allergic reaction to the healing compounds you used. You ...
razor blade11/4/2008
  Q: Have you ever done any tattoo like a razor blade penetrating the skin with some blood? What meaning ...
  A: Cody, Most of the photos of my work prior to 1993 were lost in the flooding that hit the Midwest in ...
Stinging pain on an old tattoo11/3/2008
  Q: I have had a tattoo for about 12 years on my upper right hand shoulder. Over the summer it became ...
  A: Cindy, Please contact a physician immediately for a consultation as this is not normal. This is ...
razor blade11/2/2008
  Q: Have you ever done any tattoo like a razor blade penetrating the skin with some blood? What meaning ...
  A: Cody, One of the first tattoos I ever did over 32 years ago was a razor balde penetrating the skin. ...
skin color10/31/2008
  Q: I got my tattoo almost a month and a half ago around my ankle and foot. I was told everything was ...
  A: Ann, You did nothing wrong outside of using the wrong compounds for the healing of your tattoo. But ...
Red bumps on and around my Tat10/30/2008
  Q: I have been using A&D and about 5 days ago i started getting red bumps on and around my tat.Some are ...
  A: Melissa, Besides the allergic reaction that you had to the A & D Ointment it sounds like you may be ...
Tattoo Bruise or Ink Spread?10/28/2008
  Q: Two months later, I have a blue-ish hue around it. (it's a small Chinese symbol, done in one color, ...
  A: Lisa, The truth of the matter is that you will not get rid of it. The pigment is spreading under ...
Tattoos10/27/2008
  Q: My question is do you think that before a young person gets tattooed they should take into ...
  A: Jenn, First off let me apologize for taking a few days to answer your question. My status should ...
coloring over a tat10/25/2008
  Q: I have a tattoo with red, yellow, and orange in it. I want to know if I can color over these with ...
  A: rholloway, First off let me apologize for taking a couple of days to get back to you. My status ...
tattoo healing10/23/2008
  Q: hey i got my tatoo about a weeg ago now. its all black no colour and on my uppr bicept. it sms to be ...
  A: Josh, First off let me apologize for taking a few days to get back to you. I was on vacation and my ...
Not happy with tattoo10/22/2008
  Q: I have 4 tattoo's, all drawings of diamonds to coincide with my name. I have one on my inner wrist, ...
  A: Gemma, Right from the start, based on what you have told me, it sounds like you went to an ...
Licensing10/19/2008
  Q: I know that you have to have a license to tattoo and/or pierce, my question is that this guy I know ...
  A: Hannah, You are absolutely correct to question what this guy has told you. YOU MUST BE LICENSED ...
Tattoo-ing over navel scar that is unclosed after 2 years10/18/2008
  Q: I was in Junior High when I got both my top and bottom navel pierced, as you can imagine I was very ...
  A: Alicia, First and foremost the chances of you being allergic are slim. But if that is a concern ...
How to Tattoo Artists get Paid?10/15/2008
  Q: I was curious how Tattoo Artists are generally paid from your experience? I've heard that they are ...
  A: Jamie, Tattoo artists receive payment in advance. Most tattooists working in the studio environs, ...
Going over colour with different colours10/13/2008
  Q: I apologise if you have answered this question, but i recently had a tatoo done in colour and now ...
  A: Cath, Unfortunately unles your talking about covering the whole tattoo in solid black there is not ...
tatoo issue10/10/2008
  Q: From time to time the outline of my tatoo, which is 15 yrs old, with raise up. Meaning I can "feel" ...
  A: Carol, The tattooist who did your tattoo went to deep on the outline creating a scar. What is ...
tattoo pain10/9/2008
  Q: I just got a tattoo yesterday that was a redo of my old one. Now I never had pain the next day ...
  A: Carol, You may have an infection I would strongly advise that you contact a physician ASAP. Please ...
A gypsy tatoo10/7/2008
  Q: A friend of mine has always wanted to get a tattoo symbolizing her gypsy heritage. She considered ...
  A: Enoch, You came to the right person with this question as my family is Romani. have your friend do ...
poor quality tattoos10/5/2008
  Q: I got a 2 inch tattoo 7 days ago on my chest. its of a purple ribbon for pancreatic cancer. The ...
  A: Andee, First off, "A 30 Day Guarantee"? That is questionable to begin with. Most studios offer a ...
Yellow in my tattoo9/30/2008
  Q: Friday, Sept 26th I got a tattoo of a half moon. The moon was supposed to be yellow with a little ...
  A: Jolyn, You should have nothing to be concerned over. The colors are always darker until the tattoo ...
skin rash9/29/2008
  Q: i got a tattoo about a week and a half ago Saturday it got bumpy and started itching real bad what ...
  A: Kathlene, Without being able to see what you are refering too it sounds like you maybe having an ...
lines on my forearm9/28/2008
  Q: hey there. I wanted to get two simple black lines around the upper portion of my left forearm, and ...
  A: Carolyn, To my knowledge there is no significance past what you yourself apply to it. -The GYPSY ...
my tattoo has water blisters9/27/2008
  Q: i just got a tattoo on wednesday on my wraist, it is a yellow ribbion. the first two days the tattoo ...
  A: Katy, Without being able to see what you are refering too it sounds like you maybe having an ...
new tattoo9/26/2008
  Q: I had a tattoo done on my wrist ( a small italic 'R') 2 days ago, all in black. I followed the ...
  A: Rachel, First and foremost you are using the wrong things on your tattoo. Please visit my FAQ page ...
Pimples and bumps around tattoo9/25/2008
  Q: I recived a tattoo on Fri. and used a&d. Everything was fine. I ordered tattoo goo and it came in 3 ...
  A: Alex, The first thing to know and understand is that products like Tattoo Goo and their like are ...
Penis tattoos9/24/2008
  Q: I'm interested in getting a tattoo on my penis. i wish to cover up some scarring from circumcision. ...
  A: Mont, Please visit Body Modification Ezine at URL http://www.bmezine.com/ They should have the ...
My tattoo...8/16/2008
  Q: I got my first tat on my arm, it is beautiful with no problems. So I got my second, on my upper ...
  A: J, There is nothing else to do. You have experienced an allergic reaction to the ointment you were ...
the leg i got my tattoo on feels numb8/13/2008
  Q: I got my first tattoo about 4 days ago. It's on the calf of my left leg. Last night from my knee ...
  A: Heidi, Sometimes the body, when a tattoo is done on the extremities, thinks it has received a ...
hives on year old tatoo8/12/2008
  Q: I have had a tatoo for over a year now on my wrist and 8 month old one on my side. I just now am ...
  A: TJ, The benadryl and hydrocortizone will probably only irritate the situation. What is probably ...
"cloudy" tattoo8/10/2008
  Q: i had 2 roses added to my chest piece, one on each side, and i had the right one done 2 days before ...
  A: Col, It sounds as though you may have a layer of dead skin over the tattoo. I see this happening ...
Going over a Tattoo8/9/2008
  Q: I have read your answer to Elaine about covering a tattoo with white to lighten it. I had a tattoo ...
  A: Clare, The tattooist did a lot wrong. The main thing he did was to over work your tattoo. You can ...
Allergic reaction to a specific color8/6/2008
  Q: Is it possible to have an allergic reaction to a specific color and have it start after the tattoo ...
  A: Torakochan, It does sound as if you have had an allergic reaction to the pigment which was used. If ...
green scabs6/29/2008
  Q: My boyfriend's tattoo had a large portion that was solid black. In those spots the scabs turned ...
  A: Gina, No, it is not normal for scabs to raise and turn greenish white. Your boyfriend may have an ...
raised skin6/28/2008
  Q: I had an industrial piercing on my ear and took it out after a year because it was still so ...
  A: Kristina, The bumps are either scar tissue or imbedded dirt or a combination of both. You will need ...
Tattoo color bleeding6/27/2008
  Q: I just recieved a colored tattoo spanning the entire length of the backside of my forearm (just the ...
  A: Mark, You should NOT be washing the tattoo as it has a tendency to take out pigment, knock off the ...
scar tattooing-coverup6/26/2008
  Q: I am an African-American 40 something year old female, who had a tattoo excised from my left forearm ...
  A: Sandy, Everyone at Fun City is skilled and qualified. Any pigment color will work on your scar but ...
scar tattooing-coverup6/25/2008
  Q: I am an African-American 40 something year old female, who had a tattoo excised from my left forearm ...
  A: Sandy, Contact the good folks over at Fun City Tattoo. They should be able to assist you. I hope ...
my friends tat is horrid.6/24/2008
  Q: A week ago today me and 2 of my friends went to a very well known tattoo parlor, all of us got ...
  A: Lena, I have no way to email you as I never see the email addresses of the people who ask the ...
swelling6/23/2008
  Q: ..i think maybe i put too much lotion on ...it does not hurt at all however..i was wondering what i ...
  A: Nicholas, There may be a very good chance that you have an infection. Please contact a physician as ...
Too bright around the edges6/22/2008
  Q: I had my tatoo done in the past 12 hours. Two of the colors are brighter than I would like them to ...
  A: Tammy, Applying lemon juice to your tattoo would not only be painful it would be a total waste of ...
tattoo problem6/21/2008
  Q: I have a tattoo on my upper ankle that has been itching like crazy for over a year (I got it back in ...
  A: Kristen, You are having what is commonly refered to as "Red Reaction" that is an allergic reaction ...
Is this normal?6/20/2008
  Q: I got 2 fairly large tats on my stomach ( 2 black & Gray swallows with my children's names) on ...
  A: Stephanie, No this is not normal healing. The care treatment you are using is what is affecting how ...
Tattoo Redness6/19/2008
  Q: I got a tattoo 48hrs ago, there is redness around the tattoo and little pain and a bit of stiffness. ...
  A: Natas, No, it is not normal. You may have an infection. Please contact a physician immediately for ...
spotty6/18/2008
  Q: I got a tattoo about two weeks ago and it scabed and started peeling and now that's done my color ...
  A: Brigitte, Yes, it sounds as though you will need to have it touched up. Please wait at least 30 ...
tattoo over scar6/17/2008
  Q: I just went and got an estimate to tattoo over a scar on my back that is 7in. long and 3 in. wide. ...
  A: Sheila, Without seeing what design you choose for your cover-up it would be diffulcult for me to ...
tats/bloodthinners6/16/2008
  Q: I saw your reply about not performing tats while customer is on blood thinners. My question is, how ...
  A: Evan, You should be off the thinners a minimum of 60 days before getting tattooed. This gives the ...
keloides from tattoo6/14/2008
  Q: I had a belly ring piercing 5 years ago and about a year later it had rejected the jewellery and ...
  A: Kerry-lee, The rule of thumb is that if a person is prone to keloid scarring then they are not a ...
Question about Tattoo and Pregnancy6/13/2008
  Q: I would love to get a tattoo sometime but right now I am pregnant with my son and I am about 6-7 ...
  A: Lacey, Very good question and very resposible of you to ask it. You should wait at least 6 weeks ...
tatoo6/11/2008
  Q: im planning to get a tattoo need some necessary but casual advise and precaution to be taken and ...
  A: James, Please visit my FAQ page at http://www.ubtat2d.com/faq.html for a comprehensive list of what ...
Polynesian style tattoos6/11/2008
  Q: Im thinking of getting a Polynesian style tattoo {for example see attached image} on my right calf ...
  A: Dave, There are different outline needle configurations and different shading needle ...
swollen ankle6/10/2008
  Q: I got a tattoo right above my ankle 2 weeks ago - all black and 1 small area of blue. Black healed ...
  A: Debbie, The trouble you are having with your blue is not typical. Blue is one of the most ...
Pain in only one color ink6/8/2008
  Q: I consider myself a very experienced tattoo guy. I have an entire back piece, a sleeve on my left ...
  A: Jason, I can answer your question quite simply. Chances are that you are experiencing an allergic ...
Behind Ear Tattooing6/6/2008
  Q: I am having a hard time finding out if tattoos behind your ear will hold the shape. I want to get a ...
  A: Paige, The ear is one of the areas on your body that continue to grow your entire life. Over time ...
i think my tattoo is infected..6/5/2008
  Q: ok well i got a tattoo above my ankle exactly a week and 3 days ago.. this is my second tattoo and ...
  A: Lady Troubles, First and foremost lets deal with your swelling and pain: In some instance the body ...
loss of color on my new tattoo6/3/2008
  Q: My tattoo is peeling and scabbing pretty bad. I got it done at a really reputable place and I did ...
  A: Lauren, Usually a tattoo that is peeling and scabbing badly is a sign of an overworked tattoo. ...
venom tongue piercing6/1/2008
  Q: i was wondering, what exactly is the dangers of a venom tongue piercing. now i have been considering ...
  A: Arielle, For this particular question I am going to give you a referral. Please contact Arturo ...
cover up tattoo5/31/2008
  Q: I have a green, yello, and orange color tat, I want to cover it up, but if I can't I want to change ...
  A: Dana, The yellow to pink might work as long as it is a darker, more intense pink but the purple ...
Possible allergic reaction and the future5/30/2008
  Q: I had shading and color work finished on large work on my arm and shoulder over 2 weeks ago. The ...
  A: Frank, The chances of it being a reaction to the black pigment are very rare. More than likely it ...
scarred tattoo5/2/2008
  Q: Got a tattoo on my left wrist about 2 months ago off my dads initials, dob and dod. The tattoo got ...
  A: Robyn, If it is as heavily scarred as you have indicated you will need to wait at least one year ...
Tattoo and inner bicep5/1/2008
  Q: I'm a pretty skinny kid, (5' 9" and 130lbs.) and I want a tattoo on the inner left bicep.(I'm right ...
  A: Vijay, Skinny, Fat or Medium buils makes no difference. The skin is elastic and the tattoo will ...
Red Ink4/29/2008
  Q: My friend just got a a tattoo and it is almost all red, and she seems to be having an allergic ...
  A: Laura, Your friend may be suffering from a condition known as "RED REACTION" this is an allergic ...
Tattoo Stretching4/21/2008
  Q: I am looking at getting my first tattoo, on my lower back. It will Say "Libertad" in gothic writing, ...
  A: Patrick, For whatever reason the system did not send you my original answer to your question so I ...
Music Tattoo4/19/2008
  Q: I'm musical, and I'd really like a music stave depicting my favourite piece of music across my lower ...
  A: Lauren The minimum width would have to be at least 1 1/2" for what you are describing in order for ...
Starting a shop4/18/2008
  Q: Me and a close friend of mine are in an economics class and we have to start and run a business, ...
  A: Chansce, You picked one hell of a business to "Hypothetically" start and run. Lets start with the ...
Tattoo weeping/ink transference4/17/2008
  Q: I got my second tattoo yesterday of a realistic shamrock, with bright greens and yellows. Last ...
  A: Lisa, It is very normal for a tattoo to weep a little during the healing period, Plasma and excess ...
straight lines4/16/2008
  Q: I recently got a tattoo that was full of unstraight lines, So my qustion is can crooked lines be ...
  A: Matt, You will need to seek out a skilled, qualified, licensed, tattooist to fix your tattoo. I go ...
CAMOUFLAGEING A SCAR4/13/2008
  Q: MY FRIEND I DID ALOT OF RESEARCH AND YOU SEEM THE BEST PERSON TO GO TO FOR A TRUTHFUL ANSWER.I`M ...
  A: Freddie, I would suggest that you contact Jonathan Shaw at Fun City Studios in NYC the number is in ...
cover up ink allergy or regular healing?4/12/2008
  Q: i have 2 tattoos on my forearm with a some red ink on them, no problem... 3 days ago i got a tattoo ...
  A: Rob, Without seeing a photo of the tattoo it will be diffulcult to tell you what is going on. But ...
About my scar4/11/2008
  Q: Hey last summer i fell on my knee n theres a huge scar do u think i can get a tattoo over it
  A: Nina, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if the scar is ...
small white bump on tattoo4/10/2008
  Q: I recently just had a tattoo done on my neck along the spine and it starts at my hairline. Towards ...
  A: Pamela, Generally little bumps around a tattoo are an indication that the person is allergic to the ...
my tat is peeling off4/9/2008
  Q: 4 days ago i got a tattoo on my hip and while i was getting it, it was so painful. when i was ...
  A: Nikki, It sounds, based on what you have told me, that you are suffering from a severe infection. I ...
First Tattoo Questions4/8/2008
  Q: 1. Is any color possible on ink? 2. what happens if you get a zit, or any kind of injury in a ...
  A: Sophie, 1. Is any color possible on ink? A SKILLED, QUALIFIED, LICENSCED TATTOOIST SHOULD BE ABLE ...
post foot tattoo swelling.4/7/2008
  Q: I recently got a tattoo on the top of my left foot (April 3rd) and it covers most of the bottom half ...
  A: April, One of the major problems associated with tattoos on the extremities i.e.; Feet, Ankles, ...
Timing4/4/2008
  Q: I have booked an appointment for my first Tattoo. It is a crest that will be on my upper arm. 14 ...
  A: Dennis, I would strongly advise that you wait until you return home to get your tattoo. After it is ...
Inner Bicep4/1/2008
  Q: i was wondering a pain factor how sore this would be the shoulder area was fine, my muscle line on ...
  A: Jason, The inner bicep is one of the most tender areas to have tattooed. However considering that ...
Tattoo Infection (follow up)3/31/2008
  Q: Two months ago I got a tattoo on my right arm. It was a reputable parlour with certificates from the ...
  A: David, I need further info from you before I can answer this question. What is the color of pigment ...
waterproofing3/30/2008
  Q: I just got a fresh tattoo two days ago and I am getting baptized a week from tomorrow. I didn't know ...
  A: Matt, Getting a new tattoo wet for just a moment or in the shower will not effect it. You cannot ...
beyond intenterested3/28/2008
  Q: I am very interested in apprenticing, I have practiced some with my kit and i always watch & learn ...
  A: Jacquei, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist ...
Can I get my stretch marks tattooed over...3/26/2008
  Q: I have a question for you. I had my first (and only!) pregnancy 2 years ago and I have some ...
  A: Nikki, Unfortunately a tattoo will not mask loose skin and may even cause it to be more noticiable. ...
Good placement with future employment in mind.3/23/2008
  Q: I am the only person in my family that doesn't have a tattoo, and I feel that it is time. I've ...
  A: Cable, The upper bicep is the least painful area to get a tattoo and it can be viewed easily and ...
new tattoo splotchy and lines raised3/22/2008
  Q: I read your tattoo website and kept seeing your answers when I googled my problem, so I figured ...
  A: MG, Based on the photo you have two problems going on. First, your tattooist went to deep and has ...
new tattoo splotchy and lines raised3/21/2008
  Q: I read your tattoo website and kept seeing your answers when I googled my problem, so I figured ...
  A: MG, You may be experiencing a "Red Reaction" that is a reaction to the red pigment in the tattoo. ...
tattoos3/20/2008
  Q: i got a tattoo a week ago and about two hours after i got the tattoo a rash began to form so i went ...
  A: James, You have developed an allergic reaction to the healing compound you were instructed to use. ...
tattoos3/10/2008
  Q: I am doing this paper in english about tattoos, and I was wondering if the position of a tattoo is ...
  A: Chelsey, Different studios use different pricing methods. Some studios add an extra charge for ...
my tattoo...3/9/2008
  Q: I just got my tattoo about a month ago and i wanted it in white but all the artist advised me not ...
  A: Jaden, I am afraid that there is really nothing that can be done. Because the pigments are ...
painful tattoo3/6/2008
  Q: I just had another tat done on my for arm, its by no way my first, All I can say is it hurts, ...
  A: Michael, It is a large tattoo so that can account for some of the pain factor. However it does look ...
tattoo allergic reaction3/5/2008
  Q: I recently got a tattoo one month ago. I have small dots that itch like crazy under the skin not ...
  A: Kelle, Stop using the hydrocortisone immediately all you are doing is irritating the condition. You ...
fading3/2/2008
  Q: okay, i got a cover up recently like a week and 2 days ago. its on the side of my leg, towards my ...
  A: Melissa, You are going to have to have it retouched, once faded it will not darken again. More than ...
my tatoo2/28/2008
  Q: i got my first set of tatoos last friday, the 22, and they are on the tops of both my feet....my ...
  A: Deanna, Itching is normal with a healing tattoo and your tattooist should have warned you about ...
Raised tattoo2/27/2008
  Q: I have three tattoos on my upper middle back that I have had for a year now. The problem I've had ...
  A: Ariana, Blue and Green reactions, though rare, do occur but usually not after a year. If you are ...
tattoo infection?2/26/2008
  Q: i figured it was irritated because of my shoes and socks rubbing against. Now at day 10 it has red ...
  A: Justine, Please forgive the gap in getting back to you, I was called out of town on an emergency ...
7YR OLD TATTOO GETS ITCHY BUMP2/23/2008
  Q: I HAVE A 7 YR OLD TATTOO AND NEVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH MY NEW JOB I HAVE TO COVER IT UPS WITH BAND ...
  A: Jessica, There may be an impurity in the original pigment which was used on the tattoo 7 years ago. ...
Tranverse Navel Piercing2/20/2008
  Q: I want to get a surface piercing like this ...
  A: Tiffany, Rejection rate is very low on this style of piercing. Not saying that it cannot happen ...
tattoo over an apendectomy scar2/19/2008
  Q: Hey Gypsy. I have a very small scar resulting from an apendectomy from over 2 years ago, it is ...
  A: Biko, Tattooing over a scar can be tender because the nerve endings are closer to the surface and ...
Tattooing at conventions or other places outside of the shop.2/15/2008
  Q: Hey how's it going? I do a lot of tattooing on the road outside of the shop. With all the new ...
  A: Adam, This isn't "becoming an issue", it is an issue. If you are tattooing at conventions the ...
Wrinkled Tattoo2/10/2008
  Q: I got a tattoo a little over a month ago,it is just black ink (Which is still very black) It ...
  A: Phylicia, If you are allergic to baby oil try using pure aloe vera gel. It is a good natural ...
Can I get a touch up?2/9/2008
  Q: I have previously asked a question on this site that David very kindly answered on 20th December, ...
  A: Ruth, If you have been applying baby oil to the area and the skin is still dry and flakey then ...
north carolina1/28/2008
  Q: I have been slinging ink for about 14 years or so, but have yet to make my way into a shop, I have ...
  A: Wilie, You have to follow whatever the law is in the State you are trying to get licensed in. If ...
Tattoo question1/27/2008
  Q: ive had my tattoo for a week and its my first one. ive taken really good care of it but it looks ...
  A: Amanda, You are not taking proper care of the tattoo. Please visit my FAQ page at ...
cross tattoo1/26/2008
  Q: my son recently came home with a cross tatoo on the inside of his forearm with initials on either ...
  A: Rick, It is absolutely amazing how tattoos can be construed to mean things that they do not mean. ...
Pimples & white heads on Tattoo1/25/2008
  Q: I got a tattoo about 10 months ago, its on my upper back. Since Ive had it iv been getting alot of ...
  A: Jenifer, The pigment that was used in your tattoo may have had some impurities in it. In much the ...
teardrop tat on arm1/24/2008
  Q: OK, so I have a gorgeous pheonix sleeve. Mine is crying three teardrops. To me, it represents ...
  A: Bren, Unfortunately "Gangs" have corrupted a lot of things including tattoo meanings. Of course the ...
tattoo scabbing?1/23/2008
  Q: Hey I got my first tattoo three days ago, on the top of my foot. It's a red ribbon with a black ...
  A: Jacqui, Vaseline or any Petroleum Jelly is the worst thing you can use on a tattoo as it draws out ...
Leg tattoo pain1/22/2008
  Q: Three days ago I got a tattoo that wraps around my calf. It's pretty big. My artist went over part ...
  A: Paula, Your tattooist overworked the area. There really is no need to hit the same area more than ...
first tattoo location1/21/2008
  Q: I am wanting to get my first tattoo on the top of my foot, have wanted to for a long time now, but ...
  A: Robyn, You definately need to eat at least one hour before getting the tattoo. Drink plenty of ...
tattooing a keloid1/18/2008
  Q: i was operated on 2 years ago and was left with a keloid on my tommy. i was given an intradermic ...
  A: Fiona, Scar tissue, even Keloids, can be tattooed over as long as the scar tissue is over a year ...
meanings1/17/2008
  Q: i was just wondering what the meaning is of a teardrop tattoo that is tattooed in the inside of your ...
  A: Kevin, That is a new one on me! A teardrop by the eye represents time served but one on the ...
Tattoo and Nerves1/16/2008
  Q: I have a friend who has problems with her Nerves and is in a wheelchair. She can walk and has ...
  A: Joel, I have never known a tattoo to cause nerve damage nor affect the nerves in any way. However, ...
Labret Piercing1/12/2008
  Q: I had my labret pierced yesterday and I'm aware that there's going to be minor pain, swelling, etc ...
  A: Jeremiah, Keep in mind that just because someone has been in business for 30 years does not mean ...
Shin Tattoo1/10/2008
  Q: I have recently been trying my hand at tattooing and using myself for practice. I recently tattooed ...
  A: Michelle, The best answer I can give you here is to seek out proper training. Just like you would ...
CLEANING1/9/2008
  Q: AFTER 4 DAYS OF HAVING MY TATTOO I STOPED CLEANING IT LIKE THEY SAYED BUT NOW IT STARTING TO PEAL A ...
  A: Ashley, Tattoos are suppose to peel to heal properly. The key is DO NOT PICK IT! Let it flake off ...
Tattoo stretching1/7/2008
  Q: I am 22 and looking into getting my first tattoo. My weight has fluctuated greatly over the years, ...
  A: Monique, Weight change does affect how a tattoo will look. You most probably will need to get it ...
cover up scar1/6/2008
  Q: i have a scar approx 6inches long by 1/2 inch wion my shoulder, one end of the scar is slightly ...
  A: Dean, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if the scar is ...
licensing1/3/2008
  Q: I'm in Illinois and have been tattooing for about 15 years and recently was approached concerning ...
  A: Angelo, Please visit http://www.ubtat2d.com/laws.html for a list of all state laws. I hope this ...
tattoo apprenticeship12/21/2007
  Q: I recently asked about tattoo licensing in Pennsylvania, and appreciate the advice you gave me. The ...
  A: Tim, Apprenticeship is the only way and if you want it bad enough you'll keep trying to get an ...
should i be worried?12/20/2007
  Q: My friend, lets say...BOB has just got his first tattoo this evening. I did not stay to watch the ...
  A: Bear, You should be very worried! First and foremost.... If the MAN was doing it from within his ...
Infection12/19/2007
  Q: I have a dozen tattoos - I just got a new, small one on my ankle and has scabbed over, is painful ...
  A: Elizabeth, That is probably a good bet. Why someone would tattoo an area without proper cleansing ...
COLORED TATTOO12/18/2007
  Q: I JUST GOT A COLORED TATTOO ON THE 15TH AND I PUT A+D OINTMENT AND COVER IT....WHEN I TAKE THE ...
  A: Ashely, You are NOT suppose to cover the tattoo after the original dressing is removed. DO NOT ...
tattoos12/17/2007
  Q: i was told to apply a hot water cloth to my tattoo to open the pours on my skin for the day after i ...
  A: Matthew, First off let me apologise for taking so long to get back to you. I had to go out of town ...
pimples12/16/2007
  Q: i got a tattoo on the back of my shoulder anout 3 weeks ago. i sometimes get pimples there and have ...
  A: Jen, First off let me apologise for taking so long to get back to you. I had to go out of town on ...
Tattoo bleeding12/14/2007
  Q: I have read several of your replys regarding new tattoo's and what appears to be bleeding ink. I ...
  A: Lisa, First off let me apologise for taking so long to get back to you. I had to go out of town on ...
tattoo licensing in PA12/13/2007
  Q: I am not the most qualified person when it comes to reading through legal statues, and I have ...
  A: Tim, You cannot get a tattoo license in Pennsylvania or many other states without going through an ...
tattoo cover-up questions12/12/2007
  Q: and thank you in advance. I got a tattoo two months ago that I am really regretting. I thought ...
  A: May, You are very wise in not returning to the person who ruined your tattoo in the first place. ...
Removal - "new" method12/4/2007
  Q: I've been tattooed for a number of years, and am currently working on a half back piece with a very ...
  A: Dan, I went and looked at the site. I suspect that they are using a combination of citrus juices to ...
New tattoo adjustment.12/3/2007
  Q: Hey. Thanks in advance for your advice. I had an arm band put on about 3 days ago. I was hoping it ...
  A: Chuck, Your minimum wait after getting a piece done is 2 weeks. Optimum is 30 days. The body needs ...
New Hip Tattoo12/2/2007
  Q: I just got a tattoo on my left hip and it seems to be more red and swollen then any of my other ...
  A: Emily, There are several reasons this can happen. The skin in the hip area is very tender and thin. ...
ink problem11/30/2007
  Q: recently had a tattoo of a snake on my left upper arm. Had a lot of heavy scabbing mostly in the ...
  A: Jason, Your problem is not within the pigment but within the person applying the pigment. That is a ...
studio promotion & studio management suggestions11/28/2007
  Q: Gypsy... Based on your experience, what are the most cost effective ways to promote a new studio? ...
  A: Heather, Three most important factors in promoting a studio are Location, Visability and Word of ...
abdomen tattoo: myth or fact?11/18/2007
  Q: I was during some research on lower abdomen tattoos (i want a large, old school style tattoo with ...
  A: Julia, First off let me apologize for taking a few days to get back to you. I had to go out of town ...
tattoo itching11/15/2007
  Q: I read all the other answers as to why tattoo's itch and get bumpy but they were all concerning new ...
  A: Shawna, You probably notice that the tattoos become swollen and itchy when your body heat is up. ...
uv ink11/12/2007
  Q: Is there a place in Chicago that uses UV ink? My usual place does not and I'm looking to touch up ...
  A: Gretchen, I am sorry but I do not recomeend UV Ink nor will I refer anyone to any studio that uses ...
tattoo11/11/2007
  Q: I have a tattoo on my forearm and i want to get a tattoo behind it . I am trying to find out if it ...
  A: Thilo, Any tattoo can be added to or extended by any skilled, qualified, licensed professional. ...
stretch marks11/10/2007
  Q: i have strchmarks on my lower back and some off to my left side. Would a stretch mark coverup be the ...
  A: Mike, You can cover stretch marks. Any skilled, qualified, licensed professional can do this for ...
black ink Allergy11/9/2007
  Q: 6 months ago while visiting California I received a large Japanese tattoo on the back of my arm ...
  A: Jacob, Unfortunately Doctors do not know anything about tattoos and thier causes. What happened was ...
Pain for months11/8/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo on my upper back between my shoulder blades 4 months ago. I have a constant bad achy ...
  A: Lacey, This is not a normal reaction. The tattooist may have gone too deep and damaged the muscle ...
Allerigic to Ink11/7/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo a little over a month ago. A few weeks into it, my tattoo started to get these little ...
  A: Abby, Unfortunately Doctors do not know anything about tattoos and thier causes. What happened was ...
tattoo ink11/1/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo about three months ago and I have noticed that around the border of the tattoo it ...
  A: Jen, What causes "Hazeing" which is what you are describing is the tattooist going in too deep and ...
Tattoo rash?10/30/2007
  Q: I just got my first tattoo done 5 days ago, a butterfly on my leg. Around two days ago I suddenly ...
  A: Mary, You may be having an allergic reaction to the healing ointment you are using. Discontinue use ...
rib/side tat10/27/2007
  Q: Gypsy, In a few weeks I will be going in for a tat along my left side from my hip to where my bra ...
  A: Anna, The rib area can be tender but I would say that you have already received enough work that ...
red ink allergy in past, magenta now10/26/2007
  Q: I told my artist not to use red as I lost a tattoo (took two years) to a red ink allergy. He used ...
  A: Tasha, No you should not expect such a thing from your tattooist. The tattooist has absolutely no ...
Tattoo behind ear10/25/2007
  Q: I am considering getting a tattoo behind my ear/on my neck. I have a few queries about it, though. ...
  A: Jess, If someone lost a color from a tattoo behind the ear it wasn't because of natural causes, it ...
Tattoo Overmoisturizing10/24/2007
  Q: I recently got a 3rd session on my half sleeve, and seeing as this had the most fill, I got really ...
  A: Gareth, It sounds as if you are having an allergic reaction to the ointment. Please discontinue use ...
Location and Fading10/23/2007
  Q: I have a few questions...I'm considering a tattoo behind my ear, but was wondering about how quickly ...
  A: Michelle, Fading should not be a factor if you go to a skilled, qualified and licensed ...
tattoo10/22/2007
  Q: i am planning on getting a tattoo below my abdominal right on the fatty area above pussy i was ...
  A: Niki, That area is notorious for stretch marks. A tattoo in that area will surely need a touch up ...
Apprenticeship10/18/2007
  Q: I would love to get into tattooing professionally when I'm 18- is there anything I need to do before ...
  A: Abi, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist or ...
tattoo problems?10/17/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo on my wrist/forearm on Friday, done entirely in white ink. Since then around the ...
  A: Jessica, First thing you need to know is that white does not last, it will eventually go away. The ...
teaxs liciencising requirments10/15/2007
  Q: I am currently tattooing in Illinois, where there is no licence requirement, but I am thinking of ...
  A: Christy, Texas does have licensing not only at the State level but also at the county and city ...
My tattoo looks wierd10/14/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo of a rose about 5 weeks ago. This was my first time getting color (I have very a very ...
  A: Tracey, It sounds as if you may have dead skin over the top of the tattoo preventing new skin from ...
Over moisturized tattoo10/13/2007
  Q: I got 2 tattoos on my ankles, lower heels 1 week ago while I was out o town. A couple days later ...
  A: Danielle, You can probably expect some color loss and will probably need to get a touch up after ...
Need help with Aftercare of my new tattoo10/12/2007
  Q: I just got a tattoo on saturday and the scabs are pretty bad. I started feeling some pain on monday ...
  A: Crystal, It sounds to me like you may have gone to an unskilled tattooist that may have gone to ...
recent tattoo10/11/2007
  Q: I just recently (5 days ago) got a small tattoo behind my left shoulder on my back. It's a ...
  A: Dana, The main problem here is that you were tattooed by what is commonly refered to as a ...
blurring10/9/2007
  Q: I want to eventually get a tattoo. I'm thinking about one, big snake across my body, maybe a ...
  A: Elisha, Modern tattooing is a lot different than it was in our Grandfathers day. Modern technics ...
Second Tattoo10/5/2007
  Q: How long do I wait after my first tattoo to get a second? I was told 6 months to a year.
  A: Zbaby, Two weeks is usually the norm. You can get one sooner but it is best to let your body heal ...
meaning of tattoo10/2/2007
  Q: i saw a tattoo online of an ankh, heart and ring and it looks slightly celtic. it is supposed to ...
  A: Lauren, The design is what is commonly refered to as "Bologna Tribal" The overall design really has ...
Tattoo in skin graft with no muscle7/23/2007
  Q: My skin graft is 6 yrs old and I wanted to put tattoo on it.Located above the ankle,there is no ...
  A: Lovelyn, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if the scar is ...
tattooed over moles and only just noticed7/22/2007
  Q: I had a tattoo in march and have only recently noticed its tattooed over some small skin coloured ...
  A: Vicki, The tattooist should have never tattooed over your moles because of the risk of malanoma. ...
Removing nipple rings7/20/2007
  Q: I had my nipples pierced about a year ago and have never tried to take them out until recently so I ...
  A: Mike, It depends on the type of rings you have. Are they captive bead rings? If so all you need do ...
tattoo fading7/18/2007
  Q: my tatt is about done healing is in all black, the color that is staying it almost looks like a ...
  A: William, You may have some dead skin over the top of the tattoo. After the healing is complete use ...
a blistery rash7/17/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo 6 days ago of two hearts with my kids names in it on my calf. the first 3 days i got ...
  A: Jen, First off let me apologise for taking a couple of days to get back to you, I have been having ...
Dragon tattoo7/14/2007
  Q: I'm looking at getting a dragon (protection)to blend with my daughters name . Just wondering if ...
  A: Troy, First off let me apologise for taking a few daysw to get back to you. My status was suppose ...
greenish stain around tattoo7/14/2007
  Q: WHAT CAN BE DONE TO GET RID OF IT??????
  A: Adam, First off let me apologise for taking a few daysw to get back to you. My status was suppose ...
Color match7/13/2007
  Q: I have an all black tattoo. I want some negative lettering on part of it filled in. I can't find my ...
  A: Chris, First off let me apologise for taking a few days to get back to you. My status was suppose ...
proper design7/12/2007
  Q: I've lived on the same cul-de-sac my entire life, and my street is basically family... in fact I'm ...
  A: Cristine, It is perfectly acceptable for you to walk into a studio with a "BLANK CANVAS" that is ...
steal your face7/11/2007
  Q: I have the traditional steal your face on my left upper arm...I would no longer like to look at this ...
  A: Angela, Covering a tattoo is simple as long as you use lots of detail and color with a heavy ...
tattoo fading7/11/2007
  Q: How effective and/or safe are tattoo "fading" creams that I see sold on the internet? How do they ...
  A: Jinnifer, Please do not contact me again for an answer to a question. I gave you an honest and ...
lip tattoo7/10/2007
  Q: Basically was out with some friends... emotions were running high and we all decided to get tatoo's. ...
  A: David, Most lip tattoos fade over time because of the acids in the mouth. Just relax and let nature ...
tattoo7/9/2007
  Q: i got a tattoo about a week ago and all of a sudden itchy white dots started to show up. And i want ...
  A: Gabrieal, It is anallergic reaction to the healing ointment. Discontinue us of all creams, ...
muscle mass and tattoos7/9/2007
  Q: I am looking to get a tattoo soon, but I have been in the gym a lot, and am gaining muscle mass. If ...
  A: Matt, Yes it will. You would be wise to wait until you have finished getting to your maintained mas ...
tat7/8/2007
  Q: about a week ago i got my 3rd tat and it is a ying yang sign of two dragons. it is on my back ...
  A: ItalysRain, Unfortuntely tattoo pigment is translucent which means that darker pigment will always ...
red spots on my new tatt7/7/2007
  Q: i just got my tattoo yesterday and i noticed a few red dots/spots on my tatt(not around).it doesnt ...
  A: Johnmin, You should NEVER use any sort of cream on a fresh tattoo. It sounds to me like you are ...
pen ink tattoo's7/7/2007
  Q: my brother and his friends are all 15. i just walked in 2 my kitchen and saw them sitting there with ...
  A: Nicole, The ink that is in writting pen ink IS NOT tattoo pigment. It is of a chemical base and is ...
Would it be possible to cover this tat?7/6/2007
  Q: I have an existing tat that was the first one I had done, I no longer want it, It is a blue colored ...
  A: Carrissa, Any tattoo can be covered with another tattoo. You just need to have color and detail.... ...
Mr. Gypsy7/6/2007
  Q: What do I have to do to get my tattoo license. State of New jersey.To keep it real I have done ...
  A: What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist or piercer ...
my tattoo7/4/2007
  Q: i got a tat last night its been 24 hours and 1/2 inch to the right of my tattoo all the way down ...
  A: Kathryn, You may have a severe infection. I would strongly recommend that you contact a physician ...
weightloss and tattoos7/4/2007
  Q: i recently lost 40lbs and i want to get a tattoo on my lower back i still have another 30lbs to lose ...
  A: Latanya, It is best to wait until you have lost all desired weight before getting a tattoo. I hope ...
My new tattoo is weeping... What do I do?7/3/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo about 4 days ago... I've been using bacitracin and the tattoo started getting bumpy ...
  A: Tiffany, The first thing you should do is take that tin of Tattoo Goo and skip it across a lake ...
Tattoo artist recommendation7/2/2007
  Q: ..do you know any tattoo artists who specialize in tattooing over scars in or near Philadelphia, PA? ...
  A: Yen, I do not know who in Philadelphia is the most skilled in scar coverup. You may have to do some ...
scars7/2/2007
  Q: What did you mean when you say that you develop a technic "tattoos over scars" is there a special ...
  A: Irene, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if the scar is ...
Bad outline7/1/2007
  Q: I got a tribal tattoo and on the outside of the outline you can see ink under my skin. So now the ...
  A: Ed, By not going to a skilled, qualified and licensed professional you opened yourself up for all ...
Foot tattoos and water6/30/2007
  Q: I'm wanting to get a tattoo on the top of my foot. It's about 4 inches long, and 2 inches wide. I'm ...
  A: Kayla, Four days will not be long enough. The tattoo must stay out of the water for 7 - 10 days or ...
Tattoo behind the ear6/30/2007
  Q: I'm considering getting a small tattoo of a few small black stars behind my left ear. I was ...
  A: Tena, There really is no health risk as long as you go to a skilled, licensed professional. ...
Ink Transfer6/29/2007
  Q: I got my first tattoo earlier today, about nine hours ago. My artist gave me specific instructions ...
  A: Amanda, A little seepage is normal immediately after getting tattooed as the body will reject any ...
ink fading6/29/2007
  Q: ok i got a tattoo on my hand about 6 days ago. I done everything that the artist told me to do to ...
  A: Danielle, Tattoos on the back of the hand generally do not last. But whether or not you can hold ...
Tattoo Weeping6/28/2007
  Q: I just got a tattoo yesterday, and some of the green color looks as if it is bleeding into the ...
  A: Tammy, It is perfectly normal for a tattoo to weep immediately after it is finished. Use your ...
Eyebrow, Labret, and Scrumper piercings.6/26/2007
  Q: I just have a few questions about my piercings. Any help would be appreciated. 1. I got my left ...
  A: Brit, 1. The dry skin syndrome is normal around piercings especially in the facial region. Skin ...
HELP!!!!!!6/26/2007
  Q: I got a retouch done on a year old tattoo about a month ago. Everything healed perfect. (I thought). ...
  A: Laurie, It sounds as if you had dead skin covering the tattoo. The sunblock got under the dead skin ...
Sun/Swimming6/25/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo on my back a few days ago and I've been avoiding direct sun exposure like i was told, ...
  A: Scar, You should not swim for 7 to 10 days. White cotton is the best thing to wear over a fresh ...
tattoo infection6/25/2007
  Q: I received a tatoo about a week ago on the top of my foot. It is very painful. My foot was red and ...
  A: Sara, First off I am sorry that it took a couple of days to get back to you my computer was in the ...
Laws about tattooing over a scar6/24/2007
  Q: I recently read on a website that in Ohio a tattoo artist can not tattoo over a scar. Is this true? ...
  A: Erin, Please visit http://www.ubtat2d.com/laws.html for a list of laws for Ohio. I would also ...
Red ink risk6/23/2007
  Q: I'd like to get a tattoo, but I'm concerned about red ink. The design I want is a Chinese Phoenix, ...
  A: Lauren, First off let me apologise for taking a couple of days to get back to you, my computer was ...
Tanning6/23/2007
  Q: I got my tattoo on my chest exactly two weeks ago, how long do i need to wait before tanning in a ...
  A: Sarah, First off leme apologise for taking a couple of days to get back to you, my computer was in ...
Itchy Tat6/22/2007
  Q: I have two tattoos, one on my upper back, and one on my left upper arm, Both Black. The one on my ...
  A: Alex, First off let me apologise for taking a couple of days to get back to you, my computer was in ...
NYC6/22/2007
  Q: Sorry to bother you, but I was wondering if you knew of any skilled artists/parlors in the heart of ...
  A: Kieran, I would strongly recomeend "Jonathan Shaws Fun City Tattoo." The number should be in your ...
Tattooing over or around keloid scars6/21/2007
  Q: You seem like an expert in this category and I was hoping you could answer my question. I have ...
  A: Andy, I always strongly advise people that are subject to Keloid scarring to avoid getting a tattoo ...
red and itchy tattoo6/21/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo on my feet about 13 days ago (black text) and had no problems until the past 3 days. ...
  A: Debi, Please discontinue use of all creams, lotions and ointments immediately you are only ...
Question6/21/2007
  Q: I have a tattoo on my forearm, its been really red since i got it 3 weeks ago and still the red ...
  A: Will, If it is that red for that long I would strongly suggest that you contact a physician ...
ink reaction (help)6/20/2007
  Q: is there a cream i can buy to clear up the reaction i am having without going to a dermatologist
  A: Rob, If you are having a reaction to the pigment all you can truly do is let nature take it's ...
Tattoo with cremation ashes.6/20/2007
  Q: I am wanting to get a memorial tattoo with some cremation ashes mixed in with the ink. It would be ...
  A: Lindsi, Honestly I personally would not recomeend it. The body has a tendency to reject impurities ...
blotchy tattoo6/20/2007
  Q: I recently got a tattoo and now that it has healed it is blotchy - as if the ink didn't take all ...
  A: Marilyn, The products you used for the aftercare of your tattoo is what caused your problem. You ...
Itchy pimples6/19/2007
  Q: i had a tattoo done 4 months ago, but lately the white ink of the tattoo its been itchy and raised. ...
  A: Mary, Your body is rejecting the white pigment which happens sometimes. The white pigment may have ...
Tattoo removal6/19/2007
  Q: Do you know if any of those cremes they advertise (tatbgone, tat-off) work? I have a small tattoo ...
  A: Jacquelyn, Removal creams are a scam and ripoff. They use a grit to remove skin which can lead to ...
Tattoo words stretching to much?6/12/2007
  Q: I'm 16, and my parents have agreed to sign for me to get a tattoo. My sister, brother, and brother ...
  A: Chelsea, Unless you gain a lot of weight you should have nothing to worry about. I hope this has ...
old tattoo itches6/11/2007
  Q: I have a 10 yr old tattoo (on shoulder/back)that has recently (about 2 months now) become a bit ...
  A: Jaime, It sounds as though your body is rejecting some impurity in the pigment. In much the same ...
raised tattoo6/10/2007
  Q: Hey, I've read your response to a few questions about a raised tattoo, but I just want to make sure ...
  A: Kathy, You probably notice that the raising in your tattoo is more pronounced when ever you body ...
nose piercing6/10/2007
  Q: I got my nose pierced yesturday, and everything went well. Ive had it done before but I took it out ...
  A: Karina, I do not know what aftercare instructions you were given but as long as you follow proper ...
ink6/10/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo a 8 days ago and ever since I took the bandage off, the ink has been coming off on ...
  A: Elyse, Stop using anything at all. Over use of any after care product can damage a tattoo. No ...
Its all gone wrong!6/9/2007
  Q: I had my 5th tattoo on the side of my wrist about 2 months ago. The bloke doing it has done all my ...
  A: Liz, I see what you mean. That is a pretty nasty and poorly done tattoo. It is very apparent that ...
6 months old tattoo6/8/2007
  Q: I had my 7th tattoo done 6 months ago and just recently part of it started itching. There are small ...
  A: Mark, More than likely what is happening is a rejection of impurities in the pigment. In much the ...
PLEASE HELP!6/8/2007
  Q: I RECENTLY GOT A TATTOO ON MY WRIST 3 DAYS AGO THAT I ALREADY REGRET...BIG TIME! THE ARTIST DID A ...
  A: Christie, Short of doing a coverup which would increase the size of the tattoo I am afraid that the ...
Firt tattoo question...6/7/2007
  Q: I am looking into getting my first tattoo, and the decision has been rather daunting. I want to ...
  A: Kendra, A skilled, qualified and licensed tattooist should already know the proper needle depth. ...
Pelvic tattoo6/7/2007
  Q: I'm planning on getting a tattoo that trails from my belly button into my pelvic region. I was ...
  A: Brandon, There is really nothing special that you need to do to prepare for this type of tattoo. It ...
Proper Aftercare6/6/2007
  Q: I read past questions and answers, so I think I know that I'm having an allergic reaction to my ...
  A: Melissa, I will answer each one of your questions seperately: 1. You say that after the bumps are ...
lip tattoo6/6/2007
  Q: I want to get a tattoo on my inner lip and I know that I will have to get touch ups because of ...
  A: Megan, If you do not get it done by a skilled, qualified, licensed professional that is familiar ...
New Tattoo5/30/2007
  Q: I just got a New tattoo on my back its pretty much a 7 hr back piece. I was using A&D for the first ...
  A: Kevin, Curel is one of the worst things you can use on a healing tattoo. For a list of proper care ...
aspiring artist5/30/2007
  Q: hey gypsy.. i'm an aspiring tattoo artist and i'm not sure what step to take next... i've had some ...
  A: Kristine, You do not need to go to art school to obtain an apprenticeship but artistic talent ...
tattoo5/23/2007
  Q: i know you have a lot of people asking about the red bumps they get after a tattoo.in the past week ...
  A: Steve, You are spreading them by scratching them. Leave them be and they should go away in 7 to 10 ...
new tattoo5/23/2007
  Q: I hope you can answer my question. About three weeks ago i got a tattoo on my wrist while in Reno. ...
  A: Rhonda, Your son may well be correct. I would suggest that you contact a skilled, qualified, ...
tattoo ink allergies5/15/2007
  Q: Is it possible to color a tattoo that has had a red ink allergic reaction with a different color and ...
  A: Brenda, Please wait until all of the red pigment is out of the body and the flaking and itching ...
bruses5/15/2007
  Q: i havea bruse and i was wondering if i can still get a tattoo
  A: Shawn, It is not advisable to tattoo over a bruise. Please wait until you are healed. I hope this ...
Tattoo and waxing5/15/2007
  Q: I have a rather large tattoo on my leg and I would like to know if waxing can damage the tattoo at ...
  A: Kristen, Waxing not only removes hair it also removes skin forcing the pigment to the surface ...
raised lines5/14/2007
  Q: I had a black outline of a dove tattooed on the middle of my back about 9 months ago and it healed ...
  A: Maggie, The tattooist may have very well scared you but from what you are describing I would say ...
Rib cage tattoo5/14/2007
  Q: I am getting a new tattoo this week and I am really wanting it on my left side beneath my armpit... ...
  A: Gracie, Granted, rib cage tattoos can be pretty tender but no more so than an ankle, back or hip. I ...
new tattoo5/14/2007
  Q: I just got a tattoo on the top of my foot three days ago and I just began applying lotion as I was ...
  A: Kayli, You should never use any lotions, creams, triple anti-biotic ointments or vaseline on your ...
color came out5/13/2007
  Q: I had a 10-year old tattoo retouched recently. When it healed, all the color came out, and it looks ...
  A: Lori, First off let me apologize for taking so long to answer your question. My computer was in the ...
tattoo healing?5/12/2007
  Q: its been 2 weeks since i got my tattoo. (i got red lips and marilyn monroe's signature) the first ...
  A: Lauren, First off let me apologize for taking so long to answer your question. My computer was in ...
tattoo ink allergies5/12/2007
  Q: Is it possible to color a tattoo that has had a red ink allergic reaction with a different color and ...
  A: Brenda, First off let me apologize for taking so long to answer your question. My computer was in ...
infection?5/11/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo 9 days ago. It seems as if it's been healing normally until the last day or two. I ...
  A: Alicia, First off let me apologize for taking so long to answer your question. My computer was in ...
pain5/11/2007
  Q: i got my tattoo retouched 4 days ago, and the pain is unbearable. i didnt feel pain like this even ...
  A: Collleen, First off let me apologize for taking so long to answer your question. My computer was in ...
A Calus?5/10/2007
  Q: 3 weeks ago I got a tattoo on the top of my foot. I was very careful with it, i didnt have anything ...
  A: Jani, First off let me apologize for taking so long to answer your question. My computer was in the ...
Family Crest Positioning5/10/2007
  Q: I am in a debate with my bros about where to put my family crest tattoo. I would like to have it on ...
  A: Jim, First off let me apologize for taking so long to answer your question. My computer was in the ...
Ink Fading5/10/2007
  Q: I have 2 tattoos, one is 3 yrs old, one is 2 weeks old. the first one is black and red which faded ...
  A: John, First off let me apologize for taking so long to answer your question. My computer was in the ...
tattoo5/9/2007
  Q: Wonder if you can help me I had a tattoo of a tiny heart on my wrist a red heart with black out ...
  A: Morgan, First off let me apologize for taking so long to answer your question. My computer was in ...
pregnant and tattooed5/9/2007
  Q: I am planning on getting a tattoo near my hip (a little bit towards the middle and a little bit ...
  A: Emily, First off let me apologize for taking a couple of days to get back to you. My computer was ...
Tattoo Slightly crooked4/28/2007
  Q: I recently got a tattoo 4 days ago and it seems a little crooked maybe by a couple centimeters. Can ...
  A: Mary, Flaking is normal just don't rub soap into it. If the scabbing comes off to soon it can pull ...
itchy bumps around tattoo4/28/2007
  Q: i just got my tattoo 3 weeks ago and just today i started getting bumps and they itch. theres one ...
  A: Ace, First and foremost you should NEVER use any form of lotion on a fresh tattoo. The lotion has ...
RED PIMPLES4/28/2007
  Q: hey Gypsy i read some of your answers to the pimples, i stopped using any lotions at all. i been ...
  A: Michael, Stop using ANYTHING on it, including mild soap. You just continue to irritate it further ...
tattoos and acne scars4/27/2007
  Q: hey i was wondering if its alright to tattoo over the acne scars i have on my back. i use to break ...
  A: Mike, Yes, acne scars can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if the scar ...
coverup4/27/2007
  Q: I recently had a coverup done and the artist had to go around a raised mole. I was just wondering, ...
  A: ARLYN, Once the mole is removed and the scar has had a year to heal and your Doctor OK's it, then ...
itchy bumps around tattoo4/27/2007
  Q: i just got my tattoo 3 weeks ago and just today i started getting bumps and they itch. theres one ...
  A: Ace, You are having an allergic reaction to the lotion you are using. Discontinue use of ALL ...
correcting a tattoo4/26/2007
  Q: I recently got a tattoo of a skeleton hand with a black background and noticed an awkward part in ...
  A: Elaine, Tattoo pigments are trascluscent and darker colors will always show through lighter colors. ...
nose piercings4/26/2007
  Q: ve had my nose pierced for about 6 years now, I've worn it maybe 10 times in 2. The problem is that ...
  A: Brandi, The "Black Dot" is caused by two things.... Cheap jewelry or Gold Jewelry. Cheap jewelry ...
darkened tattoo4/25/2007
  Q: I am a brown-skinned woman and I have a new tattoo that I got two weeks ago. It is a tree frog with ...
  A: Melissa, Your tattooist should have told you that tattoo pigments are translucsent which means that ...
mri question4/25/2007
  Q: I have a question about tattoos I have a large 10 year old black and grey tattoo on my lower back, ...
  A: Bridget, The problem is that you do not know what type of pigment was used on you. Newer pigments ...
work.4/24/2007
  Q: I have to take my nose piercing out when I'm at work -- will it close if I leave the ring out for 9 ...
  A: Becki, Nine hours is pushing it. Go to your local body piercing studio and tell them you need a ...
tattoo infection?4/24/2007
  Q: its been about ten days since i got my tattoo.. its a pink butterfly on the top of my foot.. and it ...
  A: Beth, If there is puss coming out of the tattoo then you have an infection. Discontinue use of all ...
names in a tatt4/23/2007
  Q: After I have my next kid I am wanting a butterfly tattoo on my back with both of my kids names in ...
  A: Cassondra, If you go to a skilled, qualified, licensed tattoo artist you should have no trouble ...
Helpp!!4/23/2007
  Q: A little over three weeks ago i received my third tattoo, this one is on my foot. I really loved it, ...
  A: Nattie, First and foremost you should never use A&D longer than 10 days. You can get an allergic ...
lip tattoo4/22/2007
  Q: I want a tat on the inside of my bottom lip and i am worried about the fading. One tattoo artist ...
  A: Jorden, The tattooist that told you that did not know what they were talking about. Permenant ...
what should i do?4/22/2007
  Q: alright. so i got a tattoo about a week ago. about 3 or 4 days into healing i was at work at some ...
  A: Amy, From the sound of it you have developed a severe infection. Please contact a physician as soon ...
2 month tattoo red bumps and itchy4/21/2007
  Q: I got my first tattoo about about 2 months ago at a shop. recently there was a small itchy red bump. ...
  A: Maggie, Your tattoo may be having an allergic reaction to the tanning oil you use or it could be ...
Faded Tattoo4/21/2007
  Q: About a month ago I got a blue star tattooed on my ankle. After I got it it started to scab. After ...
  A: Alyssa, The tattooist you visited was apparently inskilled. From what you have described he over ...
white ink4/21/2007
  Q: i have medium ivory skin and i was wondering if i got a tattoo on my wrist in white ink if it would ...
  A: Marie, The only time that white pigment is dangerous is in the hands of an inexperienced tattooist. ...
Coverup colors4/20/2007
  Q: I have an animal tattoo with a mouth, but I want to change the way the teeth look. Unfortunately, ...
  A: Bill, You have thought this out and the good news is that you figured out the answer to your ...
nose jewelry4/20/2007
  Q: My job has recently changed the rules regarding piercings, and now I have to take mine out every ...
  A: Heather, Use a clear retainer while you are working. They are virtually invisible and can be ...
New tattoo...Infected?4/20/2007
  Q: I had 7 stars tattooed on the top of my foot (4 outlined only and 3 shaded in) a week ago. Two of ...
  A: Mindy, Discontinue use of all ointments, lotions and creams immediately. It sounds like you may ...
hair removal over tattoo4/19/2007
  Q: I was thinking about getting a tattoo on my leg, but I wax my legs in the summer. Would it be safe ...
  A: Vanessa, I generally tell my clients to wait at least a year before doing hair removal treatments ...
Tattoo of a sparrow4/19/2007
  Q: I am trying to find a specific tat of a sparrow that my father had gotten when he was in the ...
  A: Joyce, One could place to check out is the design catalogs of Spaulding and Rogers, Inc. They carry ...
tattoo state laws4/18/2007
  Q: Hey, i'm sure you probably get this a lot from people my age. So sorry for the repeat. well, i'm 17 ...
  A: Stephen, Please visit http://www.ubtat2d.com/laws.html for information on ALL State laws governing ...
tattoos while getting big4/18/2007
  Q: hey i have 3 tattoos and i am 16 one on my outer forearm one on my inner forearm and one on my upper ...
  A: Travis, One of the reasons why I always STRONGLY advise against getting a tattoo until a person is ...
dry tattoo4/3/2007
  Q: i have four days with my tattoo and i've been using neosporin on it instead of a&d ointment and my ...
  A: Francis, You should NEVER use Neosporin or any other form of triple antibiotic ointment on a new ...
tattoos and eczema4/3/2007
  Q: I'm planning to have a tattoo done soon, but I suffer from eczema (usually just on my face). Will I ...
  A: Steven, I strongly advise against people with eczema or any other skin condition getting a tattoo. ...
my tattoo is very bubbly4/2/2007
  Q: i got a tattoo 4 days ago, i got 5 stars all different colors the green star is very badly bubbly ...
  A: Kristy, It sounds like you are suffering a severe infection. I would strongly advise that you ...
Higher risk of infection - myths or fact?3/31/2007
  Q: Is it true that a tattoo on the ankle is at higher risk of infection? And risk factors for infection ...
  A: Suzanne, I have never heard of an "Infection Barrier" and I am an LPN with 31 years in this ...
New tattoo3/31/2007
  Q: On 4-10-07 I got a 2" x 1" red heart outlined with black with the letters sp in black inside the ...
  A: Rox, Unfortunately you went to someone that does not know what they are doing. Basically what they ...
Wrist tattoo3/30/2007
  Q: Is it safe to get a wrist tattoo? because of all the veins there?
  A: Brian, If you go to a skilled, qualified, licensed tattooist you should have no concerns. I hope ...
Itchy tattoo3/30/2007
  Q: I recently got my third tattoo(3-22-07), in memory of my mother. It is the largest i have gotten ...
  A: Tina, The tattoo should not be itching or burning. Please discontinue use of the A&D ointment ...
Red bumps around my tattoo3/29/2007
  Q: I just got a tattoo on my lower back like a little over two weeks ago and it was itching in the ...
  A: Courteney, You are having an allergic reaction to the ointments and lotions you've been using. ...
infected tattoo3/29/2007
  Q: I have given over 40 tatts and they all came out perfect.I gave my mother one on her ankle and it ...
  A: Roger, Your mom has a severe infection and she needs to seek medical attention immediately!! If ...
itchy tattoo3/27/2007
  Q: i recently got a tattoo and it is very itchy and it has a reddish glow and some red splotches around ...
  A: Tabitha, You are having an allergic reaction to whatever ointment you are using. Discontinue use of ...
LICENCE3/27/2007
  Q:
  A: OGMIST, Please visit http://www.ubtat2d.com/laws.html for a comprehensive list of laws and ...
Rejecting Ink3/27/2007
  Q: I have read your posts on tattoos rejecting ink especially red. I have had mine for 4 years or so. ...
  A: Breeze, Red rejection can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few years. The longest that I ever ...
Red bumps on and around week old tat3/26/2007
  Q: I got an awesome tat of Marilyn last week. I used the same artist I have used for my other 4 tats. ...
  A: Angela, You have had an allergic reaction to the A&D ointment. Let the tattoo dry completely out ...
possible infection?3/25/2007
  Q: my boyfriend got a tattoo yesterday on his forearm, which is a just text. Today it is red around the ...
  A: Katie, Contact a physician as soon as possible. At this point I would even suggest an emergecy room ...
eczema and tattoo's3/24/2007
  Q: I have had eczema most of my life, I have very small, dime sized patches on my lower arms that come ...
  A: Steve, You should never tattoo over any skin abnormality such as eczema, psoriosis, birthmarks, ...
Problems with my tat3/23/2007
  Q: I got my third tat about a week ago. Most has scaled off. A piece of my lettering got snagged on my ...
  A: Michelle, The truth of the matter is that you will have a scar where the "S" was. The first 7 to 10 ...
semi-new tat but still rash3/23/2007
  Q: i had been working on my leg n back for a lil while now n the last time he did my ...
  A: Julia, You may be having an allergic reaction to the red pigment. This is known as "RED REACTION" ...
tattoos3/23/2007
  Q: I have an allergic reaction to nickel and one day i would like to get a tattoo. Do you know if there ...
  A: Heather, To my knowledge tattoo pigments no longer contain any ambient metals. Modern tattoo ...
license3/22/2007
  Q: How do I get a tattoo license in Missouri?
  A: Arnold, Please visit http://www.ubtat2d.com/laws.html to view the laws and licensing requirements ...
bad shading3/22/2007
  Q: I recently had an old tattoo recolored with some new ink and artwork. The artist did some shading ...
  A: Lisa, Unfortunately tattoo pigment is transparent which means that darker colors will always show ...
I want to get a tattoo3/22/2007
  Q: I have a birthmark, thats in a circular shape. Its brown, and i was wondering if i can get a tattoo ...
  A: Kate, You should never tattoo over any skin abnormality such as birthmarks, moles, rosetta, etc. It ...
wanting brighter color in tattoo3/20/2007
  Q: I recieved a tattoo and it is purple, i would like to go brightercolor, it seems to be a dull ...
  A: Connie, Tattoo pigment is translucent. That is to say that darker colors will always show through ...
"homemade" tattoo3/10/2007
  Q: My son took it upon himself to "tattoo" a girls name on his arm. He says he used a razor then pour ...
  A: Dennise, As you already know, what your son did was very foolish. Not only is he cutting himself, ...
Lettering Question3/9/2007
  Q: I have a tattoo of a scroll with words written in it and recently went to another tattoo artist to ...
  A: Becky, Though it is true that tattoos that are to small have a tendency to blur over time putting ...
tat problom3/9/2007
  Q: I had a tat done on my upper back three months ago. It didn't heal too good, there are a couple ...
  A: Amanda, If you are experiencing an acne type rash three months after the tattoo was completed then ...
Wrist tattoo3/9/2007
  Q: I got my inner wrist tattoos about 2 weeks for today (8/03/07)and its not done healing. The black ...
  A: Valerie, Wrist tattoos may sometimes take longer to heal than some other tattoos. You may either ...
Nose Piercing3/8/2007
  Q: I had my nose pierced about 3 wks ago...Really liking it. My question is, my friend told me that if ...
  A: Vanessa, The nostril, as with many other body part, is made up of skin structures genetically ...
Tattoo Rash3/8/2007
  Q: After four days of getting my tattoo my skin got irratated. Its not your normal red skin rash with ...
  A: Lynn, You have probably had an allergic reaction to the healing ointment you are using. Discontinue ...
New Tattoo3/7/2007
  Q: I just got my first tattoo, did all the right things, but the black part has turned out grey and it ...
  A: Mortisha, Your tattooist may have overworked the skin. Let the tattoo heal at least thirty days and ...
black ink3/7/2007
  Q: Alright i just recently got a tattoo about 4 months ago. It's a black sun with a blue moon in the ...
  A: Melissa, You can tattoo black on black but no other color. Darker pigments will always show through ...
Do i need tattoo's to become an artist3/6/2007
  Q: i have always been interested in art and tattoos i have a degree in art and have done it all my life ...
  A: Liloyd, There is an old addage, "Never trust a Butcher that won't eat their own meat." You can ...
Ink Quality3/6/2007
  Q: How do I know if my tattoo artist is using good quality inks or inks that are compatible with my ...
  A: Ken, Tattoo pigments are translucnt which means the darker pigment will always show through lighter ...
Pigment rejection?3/5/2007
  Q: I got my first tattoo on my ankle a week ago and it is still not healed, the inside of the plumeria ...
  A: Dani, You have a couple of things going on. First, you should NOT be using soap on a fresh tattoo ...
tats3/3/2007
  Q: i recently got out of jail and want a tattoo that symbolizes freedom. i want it either on either my ...
  A: Bella, The most common tattoo that symbolizes freedom is an Eagle soaring design. I hope this has ...
Tattoo colour3/2/2007
  Q: i got a black tribal tattoo on my chest a couple of years ago and the colour was very faded. A year ...
  A: Chris, No, it isn't true. You need to find a more skilled, qaulified, licensed tattooist. It sounds ...
nautical star3/1/2007
  Q: i have a black tattoo of a nautical star centered along my belt line... about where my belt buckle ...
  A: Ashley, This is why it is best to go to a professional, licesed studio to get your tattoos done. ...
Tattoos in Chicago Suburbs3/1/2007
  Q: How familiar with tattoo artists in the Chicago area? Can you suggest or recommend some? I do not ...
  A: Dan, I would recomeend, Jade Dragon Tattoo & Piercing www.jadedragontattoo.com 5331 W Belmont Ave, ...
Wrist tattoo, color, and recommendations3/1/2007
  Q: I want to get a wrist tattoo. I am considering a tribal or aztec band all the way around and about ...
  A: Dan, You would be absolutely amazed at the amount of pigment colors that are available. There is a ...
Year old tattoo2/27/2007
  Q: I have a year old tattoo that in some areas, is senstive to touch and feels tender, even area around ...
  A: Marie, I hate to tell you this but it sounds as if the tattooist you went to may have over worked ...
Still red after 2 weeks2/26/2007
  Q: If the redness remains, can it be covered up with darker graywash or a different, light color (I ...
  A: Bill, A darker gray wash can be used over it. I would advise waiting a minimum of 30 days before ...
meaning2/26/2007
  Q: Im a sailor from sweden. I have a question about the meaning of the popular eagle tattoo...the one ...
  A: Joel, The eagle with the broken arrows is one of the most powerful of all Patriotic tattoos. A ...
wrist tattoo2/25/2007
  Q: i am getting a tattoo on the inside of my wrist in a week. this will be my 1st tattoo. do u think ...
  A: Becca, The wrist is a tender area. You might consider a tattoo in a different, less tender area for ...
new artist2/25/2007
  Q: I am a new artist.that is in the tattoo buissness i have been drawing for about 18 years.and i dont ...
  A: Mad Mando, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist ...
Daughters Tattoo2/25/2007
  Q: My 19 year old daughter got a tattoo on her lower back about 4 days ago. After the tattoo she had ...
  A: Linda, Please contact a physician immediately. Your daughter has a severe infection that should be ...
Older tattoos2/24/2007
  Q: I have a color tatto (mostly blues and greens) (peacock) done almost 2 years ago...also mind you i ...
  A: Marcella, More than likely what is happening is your body is rejecting impurities in the original ...
tattoo coverup2/24/2007
  Q: about a year ago i got a small black tattoo on my lowerback. i was wondering what colors would be ...
  A: Bethanie, You will need to use darker colors like shades of, red, blue, green, brown and purple. ...
infected tattoo2/24/2007
  Q: i got a tattoo about a month ago, and while it was healing, part of it peeled off, and it was really ...
  A: Sarah, What probably happened was that the scabbing fell off before the tattoo was healed ...
Still red after 2 weeks2/22/2007
  Q: 2 weeks ago I had some light gray added to an existing tattoo. The whole area looked to be a dark ...
  A: Bill, Your tattooist may have either used NOT enough gray wash or may have overworked the skin. ...
Tattoo spreading2/22/2007
  Q: I had gotten a tattoo about 4 months ago, after the fact I noticed that my skin was blue all around ...
  A: JO, Your "PROFESSIONAL" more than likely went in to the tissue too deep and at an angle. That is ...
body piercings2/21/2007
  Q: i plan to do body piercings when i get out of school but i dont really know what i need to do in ...
  A: Cheyenne, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified piercer in a ...
tattoo ink2/21/2007
  Q: I am looking to get my 2nd tattoo. My first one is almost 2 yrs old and is already pretty faded. How ...
  A: Becky, Whether a tattoo fades or not is not solely dependant on the type of PIGMENT that is used. A ...
tattoo aftercare/redness2/20/2007
  Q: i just got a tattoo satetday(1-17-07) it is now 1-20-07 an i have redness around it but not to bad ...
  A: Dustin, The redness may be just a mild infection or you may be experiencing an infection. Keep a ...
Lower Back Tattoo2/20/2007
  Q: I would like to get a lower back tattoo, i only have one concern not sure if it's an issue, I am a ...
  A: Rachel, The lower back is a tender area to recieve a tattoo under normal circumstances. If you are ...
My 1st tatt is bleeding together..2/19/2007
  Q: Here's a pic of it when it was new... ...
  A: Emily, I looked at the photos. Your tattooist went too deep and at an angle with the needle. That ...
swelling after new tattoo2/19/2007
  Q: I just recently got a new tattoo on my arm, large in size. it took about 5 hours. my arm and elbow ...
  A: Sabrina, The tattooist overworked your tattoo. Five hours in the chair is too long on one sitting. ...
full sleeve2/18/2007
  Q: i was wondering if i eventually wanted a full sleeve to i have to get the whole thing at once or can ...
  A: Michelle, The best thing to do with any tattoo work that will encompass a large area, such as a ...
Dry, cracked tattoo2/18/2007
  Q: I got a second touch up on a tattoo just about two weeks ago. The day after the second touch up, I ...
  A: Allie, Aquaphor is one of the worst things to use on a tattoo. It is a product that is sold by ...
rib cage tattoo as a first2/17/2007
  Q: i was thinking of getting a tattoo of words going from under my arm pit to about above my hit bone. ...
  A: Louie, The rib cage is one of the more tender areas of the body. To help reduce the effects ...
Tattoo Irritation2/16/2007
  Q: I realized that I was using a lotion that was not fragrance free on my new tattoo. Now the skin ...
  A: Chris, You have experienced an allergic reaction to the ointment you were using. The best thing you ...
healed tattoo that is dry2/16/2007
  Q: .. My secondI am planning on getting this tattoo touched up in near future and I want to know what ...
  A: Lucie, Please visit my FAQ page at http://www.ubtat2d.com/faq.html for a complete and comprehensive ...
scabbing2/15/2007
  Q: The yellow on my tattoo is looking kind of dark and brownish greenish its not pussing or hurting so ...
  A: Rochelle, Lighter colors have a tendency to look darker during the healing period due to the blood ...
i rebandaged now what do i do?2/14/2007
  Q: I got my tattoo done not to long ago and the onitment was getting all over the place and when i ...
  A: Asia, Your tattooist should have told you NEVER rebandage a new tattoo. In order for the tattoo to ...
Scabbing2/13/2007
  Q: Evening, I had a tattoo of an angel on my right should done last week weds, most of the tattoo is ...
  A: Mike, It is very possible that the tattoo was overworked. If you would like please visit my website ...
Skin discoloration2/13/2007
  Q: I got my second tattoo about three days ago and have been experiencing a problem. It is a red ink ...
  A: Eric, You may have one of two things happening. You may be having a "Red Reaction" this is an ...
cover an old tattoo2/12/2007
  Q: I have a old tatto that is all black and want to cover it with a new one. can you just pick any art ...
  A: Mike, In order to cover an old tattoo with a new one you have to use a lot of detail and color. ...
Infected Tattoo2/12/2007
  Q: I just got a second tattoo done on my leg and I am putting on the a and d but there is a part in the ...
  A: Rochelle, First and foremost color, such as red, should never be used to outline a tattoo as it ...
healed tattoo that is dry2/12/2007
  Q: I got my tattoo done in the beginning of December. It is now fully healed but it seems to me that ...
  A: Lucie, You have a layer of dry skin over the top of your tattoo. What you will need to do is use ...
wolf and tiger1/31/2007
  Q: I have been wanting a tattoo of a wolf and tiger, not against each other but more of assisting in ...
  A: Scott, The tiger is the hunter and aggressor. The wolf though also a hunter is also symbolic of ...
11 year old tattoo becoming bumpy1/31/2007
  Q: I got an all black tattoo on my lower back, right side about 11 years ago. Recently it has become ...
  A: Irene, Your body may be trying to reject some impurities that were in the original pigment that was ...
foot tattoo....1/30/2007
  Q:
  A: Kelly, Tattoos on the feet can be very tender. Also please be aware that they have a tendency to ...
lip tattoo1/30/2007
  Q: i want a tattoo in the inside of my lip but i hear it will fade and that it hurts, do you recomend ...
  A: Lizette, Pain is relative to the individual. Lip tattoos are a little painful and yes they do fade ...
infected tattoo1/29/2007
  Q: i have plenty of tattoos and just recently got another one but its healing differently then all the ...
  A: Bleu, If it looks infected it probably is. I would recommend contacting a physician immediately. ...
new white outline1/29/2007
  Q: i just got my first tattoo about 10 days ago of a butterfly on my inner right ankle. At first it ...
  A: Kat Van Dyk, It sounds like your tattooist may have overworked your tattoo. You may have to have it ...
can i....?1/27/2007
  Q: ive just had my first tattoo, im so happy, it looks really good, i was so excited in the tattoo ...
  A: Lois, The tattooist that did you work should have given you proper care instructions afterward. It ...
Tattoo on top of foot1/25/2007
  Q: I got a one inch pink tattoo with red outline on the top of my foot on the 30th of Dec. The artist ...
  A: Jennifer, Quite simply, your tattooist overworked the tattoo. Also, you cannot not use a color to ...
aftercare1/24/2007
  Q: I have been reading a lot of your past questions and answers and it had caused me to have a question ...
  A: Errica, I will answer your last question first; A red reaction can occur at anytime and may be ...
pimply reaction1/23/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo on the inside of my ankle about 3 weeks ago. Now all the way up to my knee I'm ...
  A: Lisa, If you have not already done so STOP using the ointment that you are applying for aftercare. ...
nose piercing1/23/2007
  Q: I've recently gotten my nose pierced for the 2nd time (the 1st wouldn't heal so I just took it out.) ...
  A: Katie, NO piercing close to the face is not normal and can be dangerous. As long as the old pierced ...
sparrow tattoo1/23/2007
  Q: I know and have seen alot of my navy brothers with Sparrow tattos someplaces on their body I wasw ...
  A: Fireman, Actually they are not "Sparrow" tattoos they are "Swallow" tattoos. The swallow symbolizes ...
weight flutuation and tattoo1/21/2007
  Q: I already told you on my last post that I wanted a tattoo on my lower back and you suggested that it ...
  A: Yan, Beacause the skin is elastic it stretches and contracts during weight flucuation. When it ...
Fading a tattoo1/21/2007
  Q: I've heard of several ways to fade tattoos (some highly questionable, as you can imagine). Among ...
  A: Linzi, There's two terms that should never be used together regarding tattoos.... Hydrogen Peroxide ...
Lower back tattoo1/20/2007
  Q: I am considering getting a tattoo on my lower back but I'm afraid that if I lose weight, it will ...
  A: Yan, I would strongly recommend waiting until the weight is lost before getting the tattoo done as ...
Tattoos on keloids1/19/2007
  Q: If i am prone to keloids and i get a tattoo could i get some treatment in advance so that whlie my ...
  A: Angel, It is strongly advised that people who are prone to Keloid scarring not only avoid getting a ...
scabbing1/17/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo 4 days ago, and I has started to scab. I am scabbing very heavy, but only on one ...
  A: Maria, That area of the tattoo may have been over worked by the tattooist. Scabbing takes 7 to 10 ...
Dried out after reaction, now what???1/17/2007
  Q: I developed a cluster of pimples while using A&D about 6 days after getting my tattoo - saw your ...
  A: Bill, Once all the pimples are gone then use baby oil on the tattoo for 7 to 10 days. The flaking ...
touch up on a tattoo1/17/2007
  Q: i just got a tattoo that was done over another on my wrist, the artist said he could see it coming ...
  A: Mary, Tipping is a symbol of a job well done. You should never feel obligated to tip someone. If ...
Old Tattoo1/16/2007
  Q: I have a tattoo thats just under a year old, and everytime i take a shower, some parts of it get ...
  A: Marcella, Apparently the pigment that was used had some impurites in it and your body is trying to ...
lower back tattoo1/15/2007
  Q: well i want to get a lower back tattoo but i want one that no one else has because many people get ...
  A: Aly, Find a skilled, qualified, licensed tattoo artist in your area and consult with them. A ...
artists recommendation1/15/2007
  Q: Do you know of any tattoo artists in the Louisville, KY area that specialize in tattooing over ...
  A: Adam, I am not familiar with the studios in Louisville but I have heard of an artist that use to ...
Healing Problems1/14/2007
  Q: well i got a tattoo about 3 months ago,it was on my leg and it is only with the color black n a ...
  A: Sarah, It sounds to me like you have highly sensitive skin that is prone to allergies. The reaction ...
tanning1/14/2007
  Q: How long after i get a tattoo should i wait to go tanning and is there anything special i should put ...
  A: Tara, You should wait 7 to 10 days after the tattoo is completed before you tan. Then use an SPF 35 ...
Tattoo on Big Scars1/14/2007
  Q: I had Gastric Bypass and Intestinal Surgery and it left me with a scar about 1/5" thick (which isn't ...
  A: Doug, A tattoo to cover a scar, just like with any tattoo, is a choice of personal preference. The ...
ying yang1/12/2007
  Q: Question I already have a tattoo of a ying yang in the middle of back. would it be appropriate to ...
  A: Lawson, The dragon and the tiger in opposition to each other is a recurring theme in Asian art. I ...
bad tattoo reaction1/12/2007
  Q: i had a tattoo done aug of 06 of a lotus flower artist used red ink & blue ink in the flower.leaves ...
  A: Deborah, Red reactions do resemble keloid scars but they are not. Much in the same way the body ...
apprenticeship cost?1/11/2007
  Q: I have someone that has offered me an apprenticeship for 3000.00 Is that a good price,bad price?
  A: Ron, That is an average cost. What you will pay for an apprenticeship is dependent on the skill and ...
healing tattoo...1/11/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo on the top of my foot about 3 weeks ago. It has been nothing but problems. Well, I ...
  A: Lisa, Honestly, you should not be using anything on the tattoo until all the scabbing is gone. You ...
1st Tattoo1/11/2007
  Q: i really want to have a tattoo but my skin is very sensitive, when i went on holiday a couple of ...
  A: Sam, Tattoo pigments are carbon based and allergic reactions though rare are possible. Henna has ...
White Ink Tattoo1/10/2007
  Q: all had white ink used, and I take white ink very well (PH balance). I recently decided to get an ...
  A: Lisa, This is exactely why white should only be used as a mixer or highlight and not a prominant ...
scarred tattoo1/9/2007
  Q: I had a small red test patch done a few months ago as I had reacted badly in the past to red with it ...
  A: Sponge, The scared area should eventually go down on it's own. It will take about a year for this ...
I want a tattoo1/8/2007
  Q: i am a big girl and was wondering what would be the best place to put a tattoo so if i loose or gain ...
  A: Jessica, I would suggest either shoulder blade or upper chest. These are the least likely places ...
very itchy raised tatoo1/8/2007
  Q: i recently got a cover up tatoo on my neck,and its very itchy,its a little raised. i also have one ...
  A: Myraferrer00, If the color is red then you may be having what is typically refered to as a red ...
Exercise and new tatoo1/8/2007
  Q: How soon can you resume a running program (and working up a good sweat) after getting a tattoo? ...
  A: Bill, A good rule of thumb is 7 to 10 days or after all the scabbing has flaked off to begin your ...
Full Head Tribal Tattoo1/7/2007
  Q: I've been meaning to get a full head (not face) technicolor tribal tattoo... Would you have any ...
  A: Twytch, Tattoo prices vary from region to region. What you will pay is dertermined on where you ...
burn and tattoo1/7/2007
  Q: my friend was burned recently (2nd degree) and she has not yet removed the bandages, but she is ...
  A: Lauren, There is no definative answer to this question. I have seen it both ways. Either way she ...
blood inside the tattoo...1/6/2007
  Q: i just got a tattoo yesterday, it is a heart with country blue ink inside it. when my artist was ...
  A: Angelica, You will not be able to tell if there is permanant damage until the tattoo heals but from ...
New tatoo aftercare1/5/2007
  Q: When my tatooist completed my tattoo, he completely coated it with Vaseline and wrapped it, told me ...
  A: Bill, Prolonged use of Vaseline can have an adverse effect on your tattoo. As long as it was not on ...
Bleeding1/5/2007
  Q: I currently have 6 tattoo's and the last one i got i bled alot and have to keep getting it patched ...
  A: Sharon, If you suddenly are experiencing a lot of bleeding with a tattoo (or anything else for that ...
tattoo healing problems...1/4/2007
  Q: I got a tattoo about two weeks ago on the top of my foot, and it has been nothing but problems. I ...
  A: Lisa, I'm sorry but there is no bringing your tattoo back to life. Unfortunately your tattooist did ...
what would happen if .....1/4/2007
  Q: yeah so how would the tattoo look if you tattooed over a keloid scar ? and what would happen if ...
  A: Amanda, How would it look? In a word CRAPPY! I advise people that are prone to Keloid scaring to ...
Tattoo (Ink Reaction)1/3/2007
  Q: I recently read about a tattoo that was done bad. Dug too deep and had a bad reaction. I had a ...
  A: Celso, It is not "one of those things that just happen" a skilled, professional and qualified ...
blotchy blue1/3/2007
  Q: just finished getting lower half of sleeve done 3 weeks ago and the blue has come out all blotchy ...
  A: Jeff, I usually urge people to wait at least 30 days before having a tattoo redone to give the skin ...
4 YEAR OLD TATTOO..1/2/2007
  Q: I HAVE A 4 YEAR OLD TATTOO ON MY WRIST (BOTTOM SIDE). IT IS A SOLID BLACK STAR WITHIN A SOLID BLUE ...
  A: Annie, Apparently there were some impurities in the pigment which was used. It can take sometime ...
Tattoo damage during pregnancy1/2/2007
  Q: What's the best way to preserve my tattoo during pregnancy? It runs from the top of my right hip, ...
  A: Stephanie, To minimize damage to a tattoo during pregnancy follow these steps: 1. Upon learning ...
all healed up1/1/2007
  Q: ..1 week and day ago i got my first tattoo....a red rose on my ankle, my husband's Christmas ...
  A: Trish, Please visit my FAQ page at http://www.ubtat2d.com/faq.html for a list of proper care ...
black and blue1/1/2007
  Q: I had a tattoo done on my upper leg about two months ago It has been black and blue around the piece ...
  A: Ellen, I regret to tell you this but the black and blue is from a poorly done tattoo. Apparently ...
tattoo meanings12/31/2006
  Q: .. any ideas??
  A: Karl, Either try Kanjii symbols or consider using your Chinese Zodiac symbol. I don't know if you ...
Developing varicose veins in tattooed area12/31/2006
  Q: I am 19 and already have a couple vericose veins on my legs. I also plan to have tattoos on my legs ...
  A: Kristina, I have never known Varicose Veins to affect a tattoo a fully healed tattoo. You should ...
New Tattoo Problem12/30/2006
  Q: I recently got a beautiful portrait of my daughter on my forearm two weeks ago. Two days after I ...
  A: Daniel, I hate to tell you this but you used the two worst things you could have used on your ...
Lower Back Tattoo12/30/2006
  Q: I'm considering getting a tattoo on my lower back area - this will be my 1st tattoo. However, I'm ...
  A: Michelle, The lower back is one of the most tender areas to receive a tattoo but it is not ...
Red bumps ON tattoo12/29/2006
  Q: well i got this about 8in x 9in tattoo about more than 1 month. first week i got a bad rash but then ...
  A: Junior, You have had an allergic reaction to the healing ointment he used. Discontinue use of all ...
toenail tattoo's12/28/2006
  Q: I'm a 44 yo female who has just been through surgery to remove two toenails (not for body mod, but ...
  A: Chaz, First and foremost because you have Diabetes and because you are aware of the increased ...
Old Tattoo, Outbreak of pimples on top12/28/2006
  Q: My tattoo is situated about three inches below the base of my neck, atop my spine and ...
  A: Amanda, Apparently there were some impurities in the pigment which was used. Such as a splinter is ...
Where should I get my tattoo?12/27/2006
  Q: I want to get my first tattoo but i dont know where to put it. I'm kind of a wuss and was wondering ...
  A: Amanda, The least painful spot on the body is the outer bicep. You really should not be to ...
New tattoo12/27/2006
  Q: Is my tattoo going to be ruined in anyway color wise since I have been using the vaseline on it and ...
  A: Sherry, You will probably have to look at a touchup at some point. Please consider finding a new ...
New tattoo12/26/2006
  Q: I finished the color fill in on my tattoo on the 22nd of December. It has scabbed over real bad, I ...
  A: Sherry, First and foremost find another tattooist. The person who is working on you does not know ...
i need a price range12/26/2006
  Q: i want to get a tatoo of my husbands name with a little heart after his name right above my heart. ...
  A: Jaycie, Tattoo prices vary from region to region. What you will pay is dertermined on where you ...
My Boyfriend's First Tat12/25/2006
  Q: My boyfriend got his first tattoo the same night i got my second one. Mine has healed up just nicely ...
  A: Nita, Your boyfriend has had an allergic reaction to the healing ointment he used. Discontinue use ...
White Heads12/25/2006
  Q: I am 15 years old and from ohio. So in October I get a tattoo for my birthday then in November I ...
  A: Chris, You have had an allergic reaction to the healing ointment you used. Discontinue use of all ...
Tattoo meaning12/25/2006
  Q: What does a casper the friendly ghost tattoo on the neck mean?
  A: Jimb, First off let me apologise for taking a couple of days to get back to you, I was celebrating ...
scoliosis scars12/22/2006
  Q: i want to get a small tattoo on the top of my spine do you think this would be ok for the tattooist ...
  A: Becky, First off let me apologise for taking a couple of days to respond, I was spending Christmas ...
Keratosis Pilaris and Tattoos12/22/2006
  Q: I want to get a tattoo on my upper arm, but the back of it has a little bit of keratosis pilaris ...
  A: Bigbilly, First off let me apologise for taking a couple of days to get back to you, I was out of ...
"venom" tongue piercing12/22/2006
  Q: I want to get my tongue pierced, but since I play the oboe the traditional piercing in the center ...
  A: Krissy, You answered your own question. Everything you listed is exactly why it is less popular. ...
tongue tattoos12/21/2006
  Q: I was born with dark brown taste buds on the tip of my tongue and all my life I've looked at funny ...
  A: Antoinette, Tattooing the tongue can destroy the taste buds. You also must take into consideration ...
Looking for a tattoo shop in Pittsburgh12/20/2006
  Q: Gypsy: I moved back to PGH a year ago and am looking for some artists in town to do a memorial ...
  A: Ellis, I would recommend "BUDDAH'S" in Erie. They are highly professional and very competent. I ...
tattooing over lipoma12/20/2006
  Q: I have lipoma on my left arm, wrist to mid-forearm - I want to get a tattoo on my left wrist to ...
  A: Karen, Unfortunately, yes it is a problem. You should NEVER tattoo over ANY skin disorder as there ...
Tattoo Prices12/20/2006
  Q: I've been wanting to get a tattoo for awhile now. I live in Michigan, but have not heard much on the ...
  A: Sarah, Tattoo prices vary from region to region. What you will pay is dertermined on where you ...
belly button peircing scar12/18/2006
  Q: i have a scar from a belly button ring but its not a raised scar. instead the scar is softer skin ...
  A: Aleasha, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if the scar is ...
tattos12/18/2006
  Q: What is the meaning that the eye tatto has?
  A: Michelle, Usually, eyes stand for insight into certain things. Think the third all seeing eye of ...
permanent tattoos12/18/2006
  Q: I'm interested in getting permanent tattoos. Yet, I don't want to get pierced by needles. Is it ...
  A: Daniel, You can be tattooed by needles, by bamboo, by knifes or by sharpened sticks. No matter how ...
1 day old tattoo - bumpy, raised - I'm worried12/17/2006
  Q: I just got a small heart tattooed on my wrist last night. I realize it's very early in the healing ...
  A: Kim, If the heart is red you may be suffering from a condition known as "RED REACTION" this is an ...
tattooing over brands12/17/2006
  Q: A couple of buddies branded my inner arm abouta year ago. I have a hypertrophic as a result, it is ...
  A: Joe, Yes, scars, even brands, can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if ...
Big Brother tattoo12/14/2006
  Q: I asked you a question about a month ago. My brother has a tattoo in Chinese that means ...
  A: Jered, Dick Warsoki is the expert on this. He is a very busy person. What I would advise is this; ...
lost12/14/2006
  Q: i got my tattoo april of 2005 on my back and it still itches every now and then and sometimes burns ...
  A: Valerie, Apparently there were some impurities in the pigment which was used. Such as a splinter is ...
word tattoo, placement and detail of tattoo12/13/2006
  Q: first off, thanks for taking the time to read this... secondly im in the market to get a new tattoo, ...
  A: Turkish, You will find that most professional studios offer a very wide variety of font styles. In ...
why me?12/13/2006
  Q: gypsy, i just got my forth tattoo. the first was on my breast and healed fine. the second and third ...
  A: Liz, I am going to STRONGLY suggest to you two things. First and foremost contact a physician ...
training12/12/2006
  Q: what kind of training do you guys have to go through? Do you have to go to college for it? I am ...
  A: Kyle, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist or ...
becoming a tattoo artist12/12/2006
  Q: My supervisor at work noticed my celtic knotwork drawings at work and said I should be a tatto ...
  A: Christina, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist ...
Not thrilled with my tattoo12/12/2006
  Q: I just got my first tattoo 4 days ago, and I'm not thrilled with it. The piece was supposed to be ...
  A: Jared, I was wondering how your tattoo healed up after I reworked it for you. Hope you are pleased ...
Raised Tattoo After It Has Healed12/11/2006
  Q: I have an all black tattoo on my shoulder which i have had for about four months now. Recently a ...
  A: Nate, You may have rubbed it or your body may be trying to reject an impurity in the pigment. These ...
innerlip tattoos12/9/2006
  Q: About how much is an inner lip tattoo cost and how long does it last for? Do you recommend getting ...
  A: Alicia, What you will pay is dependant on the region where you live and the skill and reputation of ...
red itchy bumps12/8/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo on my upper back between my shoulder blades and when i went back to get the red ...
  A: Flemena, The bumps are caused by an allergic reaction to the healing ointment you are using. ...
colour.12/7/2006
  Q: Hey, i got my first tattoo on my wrist yesteday, its not sore or weeping,and the outline is ...
  A: Lena, Unfortunately no it won't. It is an indication that your tattooist amy have not only gone too ...
Head Tattoo, Acne medication12/7/2006
  Q: This is fairly crazy but I'm sure you've heard equally crazy. I am a young bald fellow with a ...
  A: Pete, Due to the medication you are on and because your skin is prone to acne you should strongly ...
Want A Tattoo But, Where I Want It There's Acne!12/7/2006
  Q: Embarrassing As It Is: I have acne on my shoulders and that is the only place that I am wanting to ...
  A: Donna, If you find a tattooist that is willing to tattoo over acne then they are not professional ...
Liability Waiver12/6/2006
  Q: I've heard that the FDA now "requires" some sort (release of liability) of form to be filled out by ...
  A: Jed, It has nothing to do with the FDA. Each licensing board has regulations that they issue to the ...
Tattoos over scars12/6/2006
  Q: I have a very large surgical scar from a procedure to correct my pectus excavatum (sunken chest) ...
  A: Noah, I have covered very large scars in my carreer numerous times and it can be done. What you ...
Tattoo infection12/5/2006
  Q: I have been going to the same tattooist for over 2 years now. I am a dark-skinned person as well. I ...
  A: Tiff, First and foremost DON'T GO BACK TO HIM! Just by what you told me I can tell you two things ...
TATTOO SCABS12/5/2006
  Q: I just noticed too small scabs on it and am wondering if it is normal for such an old tattoo to ...
  A: Eleni, You may have scrapped it or your body may be trying to reject an impurity in the pigment. ...
lower back tattoo12/5/2006
  Q: am thinking of getting a lower back tattoo, and am trying to find the best place to get my tattoo, i ...
  A: Martha, I am going to refer you to "PAPA SANS" in Arlington. For my money they are the best in the ...
Waterproofing aftercare12/4/2006
  Q: Hey, me and a friend got tattoo's a few days ago, and were advised not to go in the ocean/swimming ...
  A: Sarah, You will need to follow your tattooist's aftercare instructions. First and foremost a tattoo ...
TATTOO AFTERCARE12/3/2006
  Q: WILL THE PIGMENT STAIN AROUND THE TATTOO WASH OFF?
  A: Kurt, Yes the stain on the skin will go away.... It is only permanant if it is in the skin, not on ...
artistic quality?12/3/2006
  Q: I like the design but friends told me that it isn't a high quality tat. Are they just being retarded ...
  A: Sherrie, Don't take too much stock in what your friends say.... The photo you sent was kind of ...
tattooing12/2/2006
  Q: Will you still take and start apprentices and if so how does one get one started with you. I'm ...
  A: Dan, I am not at this time accepting any apprentices. The reason for this is because most people ...
lip tatoo12/2/2006
  Q: i want to get my lip tattooed but somone told me eventual it is vissible on the other side.
  A: Joshua, Whoever told you that was either pulling your leg, did not know what they were talking ...
new tattoo12/2/2006
  Q: I had a tattoo 48 hours ago on my upper back, covering some of my spine. Is it normal for it to feel ...
  A: Sara, Tattoos on the back, because of the amount of nerves in that location, can sometimes be ...
Itchy bumps on old tattoo...12/1/2006
  Q: Someone had already posted a question like this I was wondering if maybe thats what is wrong with my ...
  A: Bambi, Apparently there were some impurities in the pigment which was used. Such as a splinter is ...
Problems with new tattoo12/1/2006
  Q: I got a new tattoo a week ago on my left ankle. My foot has been in pain and I cannot hardly walk ...
  A: Sherry O, Unfortunately the condition you described sometimes occurs due to the slight trauma that ...
tattooing over scars11/30/2006
  Q: Is there anyone you would personally recomend to do scar cover ups? I'm willing to fly anywhere and ...
  A: Jaynee, Without seeming to brag on myself I am the one that originally developed the technic for ...
scar tissue11/30/2006
  Q: I am interested in a coverup tattoo on the back of my neck. I had a head surgery, and now have a ...
  A: Jennifer, Yes, scars can be covered, even on the head, but it is a difficult and tedious process. I ...
Red Ink11/29/2006
  Q: With all the difficulties with red ink that I am reading about at your website, can you recommend a ...
  A: Jack, To my knowledge "Intenze Ink" has the least amount of reactions of any other brand. I hope ...
piercing problem11/29/2006
  Q: i got my belly button done in august and the skin was thick where the piercing was but when i just ...
  A: Liz, To begin with you should never put any sort of ointment on a piercing as it can impack in the ...
Tattoo and pregnancy11/28/2006
  Q: I am trying to become pregnant. Would it be safe to get a tattoo? Is there a safe time to wait ...
  A: Amanda, You should never get a tattoo during pregnancy. Your body needs everything it has for the ...
help designing my own tattoo11/28/2006
  Q: im still young so i cant get my own tattoo on, but i want to know how can i design my own tattoo ...
  A: Ivan, I would suggest making several drawings of what you have in mind then finding a friend or ...
tattoo11/28/2006
  Q: When i turn 18 I'd like to get a tattoo. its this little symbol thing i've drawn on the bottom of my ...
  A: Nicole, The bottom of the foot is the most painful place on the body to get a tattoo due to the ...
the color white on a tattoo11/27/2006
  Q: I just had a tattoo of the st georges cross which is a red cross on a shield with white background. ...
  A: Norman, White pigment is not like any other pigment, some people hold it, some don't. Whether or ...
acne & Tattoos11/26/2006
  Q: I want to get a tattoo on my shoulder blade. But I do have some acne there. It's not a seriously ...
  A: Terri, The answer to both of your questions is YES! Yes acne would affect the tattoo and how it ...
green?11/26/2006
  Q: ok i got a tattoo, just the outline yesterday and it is tinted green. is it brusied or what? please ...
  A: Frankie, Your tattooist went to deep and used a low grade of pigment even possibly India Ink which ...
How long to wait before fixing up a tattoo11/25/2006
  Q: Hey there, I just got a tattoo almost two weeks ago. For one I did everything my tattoo artist ...
  A: Jonathan, Being Hispanic has nothing to do with your problem. If you followed the care instructions ...
Plus Size tattooing11/25/2006
  Q: I am currently a plus size woman who is losing weight. I want to mark this joyous experience with my ...
  A: Smallfutures, It is advisable to wait until you have lost the amount of weight you are wanting to ...
Wrist Tattoo11/24/2006
  Q: I recently got a tattoo of a chinese symbol on the inside of my wrist. It is completely black. It ...
  A: Rose, More than likely you will have to have the tattoo touched up. It should not have scabbed ...
Tattoos11/23/2006
  Q: Every time I get a tattoo my skin will stop taking the ink after about 30 minutes. Why is that? Iy ...
  A: Michael, Find another tattooist. There is an extremely rare skin condition where pigment will not ...
tattoo scabbing11/23/2006
  Q: I just got a lower back tattoo about 4 days ago, and I was just wondering how long until the ...
  A: Vanessa, The average tattoo takes 7 to 10 days to heal properly. I am surprised that your tattooist ...
Ink bleeding into fine lines?11/22/2006
  Q: I had my tattoo done 4 days ago, and spent a lot of time researching to find a good studio. My ...
  A: Emma, The ankle is a tricky area especially for an unskilled tattooist. BLEEDING and BLURRING is ...
what you have to do to be a tattoo artist11/22/2006
  Q: im only 16 but im a very good drawer, i have my own folio and am really creative..im into the gothic ...
  A: Sinead, All states require that you MUST be at least 18 years old for licensing, both professional ...
blisters11/21/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo on the top of my foot five days ago. It's a pacman frog, with black outlines, brown ...
  A: Dee, A tattoo should never blister. You may have an infection. I would advise visiting a physician ...
Fading color11/21/2006
  Q: Hey, so i just got a tatoo 6 days ago of a light blue moon and purple clouds on my ankle down to ...
  A: Chris, The fading is more than likely caused by an inexperienced tattooist applying a tattoo in a ...
I wanna do it!11/20/2006
  Q: I have been great at art my whole life and I want to find a job that involves art so I will be able ...
  A: Katie, A business degree as well as art classes are definately a big help. If you are serious about ...
Red reaction?11/19/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo a week ago and after it peeled I noticed that the parts with red ink are puffy and ...
  A: Ryan, The little white bumps are an allergic reaction to the ointment. Discontinue use immediately ...
terrible tattoo11/19/2006
  Q: I had drawn up a nice tribal frog tattoo for my wife's first tattoo. As a present, took her to get ...
  A: Scott, I am sorry that you fell prey to an unskilled tattooist. There are several things you can ...
Designing My Own Tattoo...11/19/2006
  Q: Hey, my name is Jenniah and I was wondering if maybe you could help me come up with an original ...
  A: Jenniah, The best thing you can do is sit down with a tattooist in your area for a consultation. ...
tattoo salary11/18/2006
  Q: i was wondering if you could tell me how much money a tattoo artist should make i cant seem to find ...
  A: Josh, A tattooist working within a studio is usually paid either a percentage of what they do or ...
blistering11/17/2006
  Q: I have tiny blisters on my new tattoo. It is only in the blue part of the tattoo. Is this serious? ...
  A: Ashley, Though it is extremely rare you may be having an allergic reaction to the blue pigment in ...
my tattoo11/17/2006
  Q: i got a tattoo on my wrist it is red and white and i think it is infected. i don't hev health isn. ...
  A: Leslie, It sounds as if you are having what is known as a "Red Reaction." That is an allergic ...
Tatto is scabbing bad11/17/2006
  Q: I'm getting worried and i've read so many contradicting things on the internet i have no idea what ...
  A: AirSki, Based on what you have told me you are taking care of the tattoo incorrectly. You should ...
Looking for recommendation11/16/2006
  Q: I would like another tattoo on my lower back, but I have some stretch marks in that area. I've read ...
  A: Koffibean, There are so many fine artists in both of those regions that can meet your needs. Please ...
tattoos11/16/2006
  Q: Hope your day is going well. I want to get a tattoo of a star on my right inner wrist. I'm not ...
  A: Adrienne, The wrist of course, as you have already figured out, is a very high wear area. Color ...
color question11/15/2006
  Q: I wanted to know if it is ok to tattoo oer blue ink?- I have a tattoo which is almost all a medium ...
  A: Molly, Darker colors will always cover lighter colors. You should have no problem covering the blue ...
LOOKING FOR A SPECIFIC TATTOO11/15/2006
  Q: I looked up the Cherokee Alphabet with not to much success of finding a Indian translation for ...
  A: Jerred, Check with Dick Warsoki at Grinn and Barrett Tattoos in Omaha, Nebraska. The URL for their ...
tattooing11/15/2006
  Q: who makes the highest quality supplies in the industry? (machines, inks, etc.) Basically, what names ...
  A: Jared, Buying tattoo equipment and supplies is a lot like buying any other form of merchandise. Do ...
Itchy tattoo11/14/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo on my outside right ankle ten years ago and just went to have it redone two and half ...
  A: Anna, You are having what is known as a "Red Reaction." That is an allergic reaction to the red ...
tattoo ink bleeding11/13/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo a little over on week ago and it seems that there are a few areas that the out line ...
  A: Rachael, Be concerned! Though itching in a healing tattoo is normal bleeding, fuzzy looking lines ...
tattoos11/13/2006
  Q: today is the 12th i got my second tattoo last night on the 11th. i really like it, its on my thigh. ...
  A: Tonya, Sounds like you went to a tattooist that has a heavy hand. The thigh is a tender area and ...
tattoo scar11/12/2006
  Q: I have a tattoo that became infected in the healing process. A year and a half later it is scarred. ...
  A: Anthony, A skilled, qualified, licensed professional can cover that for you but the texture of the ...
small star tattoos11/11/2006
  Q: well i'd like to get 3 small star tattoos on both my hips, so six in total. the largest stars will ...
  A: Morgan, The cost of a tattoo is dependent on the region you live in and the skill and fame of the ...
LOOKING FOR A SPECIFIC TATTOO11/11/2006
  Q: I hope you can assist me. My brother got a younger brother tattoo symbol in Chinese. I would like to ...
  A: Jerred, You might consider using the "Cherokee Alphabet" to accomplish this. Type in your search ...
Black ink tattoo complication10/24/2006
  Q: I recently had a large tribal tattoo done on my arm. I have had it for over a month now and it has ...
  A: Matthew, It sounds to me like you have dead skin over the top of the tattoo. What happens is new ...
Tattoo10/23/2006
  Q: I want to get on tattoo on the top of my pussy? Is that dangerous at all?
  A: Chelsea, Not in the hands of a skilled, qualified, licensed professional. For what to look for in ...
bumps after tattoo10/23/2006
  Q: My daughter got a lower back tattoo about a month ago. since then, she has developed a rash of skin ...
  A: Danny, More than likely it is an allergic reaction to the healing ointment she used. My advise is ...
bumps in old tattoo10/22/2006
  Q: I have a black tribal sun on my lower back that I got 4 years ago, and I had a small red heart put ...
  A: Kristen, The impurities will come out through the surface of the skin. They are not something you ...
how old.10/21/2006
  Q: I have a few guestions. I live in northern california, how old do you have to be to be a tattoo ...
  A: Jeff, Eighteen, eighteen and eighteen. To see the California regulations please visit ...
Tatoos10/20/2006
  Q: I got my tattoo on my upper right forearm a week ago tomorrow, around the edges it looks kind of ...
  A: Abby, First off stop using the ointment or any other lotions or creams on it. Contact your ...
lip tatto10/20/2006
  Q: i want to know the risk and after care of a lip tattoo and should an artist thats never done one try ...
  A: Matt, To let an unskilled tattooist work on your friend or any one else for that matter is ...
Tattoo Question10/20/2006
  Q: I got a tat of a red hibiscus with green leaves and three black turtles at the end of June. It ...
  A: Leilani, You are having what is known as a "Red Reaction." That is an allergic reaction to the red ...
raised tattoo10/19/2006
  Q: additional information : the only raised areas are the "red" of the roses and itchy.....the green ...
  A: Leslie, You are having what is known as a "Red Reaction." That is an allergic reaction to the red ...
Color Fading10/19/2006
  Q: I have a lower back tattoo that I love. But lately I've had a lot of back pain. I use Icy Hot or ...
  A: Melissa, As long as the tattoo is aged, that is to say over 30 days old, there should be no problem ...
tattoo10/18/2006
  Q: jihad a tattoo done on Saturday gone i noticed it was painful when i squeezed it puss came out i was ...
  A: Wayne, You have a severe infection. My advise is that you contact a physician immediately for ...
raised tattoo10/18/2006
  Q: I got my first tattoo about a year ago. It is on the small of my lower back. I took good care of ...
  A: Leslie, I will need further info from you before I can answer your question. In what color is the ...
lip tattoos10/18/2006
  Q: I would like to know approximitly how long a lip tatto lasts. Also if it ever fades completely ...
  A: Karol, The amount of time that an interlip tattoo lasts is dependent on the amount of acidity ...
helpp plzz10/17/2006
  Q: ------------------------- ok well thanx but no im talkin like i can get the ring in but i dont kno ...
  A: Nicole, If it is a captive bead ring the bead justs snaps in and out between the opening. If the ...
Dry, and odd looking skin outline around the Tattoo.10/17/2006
  Q: I had gotten my first Tattoo around 4-5 weeks ago. The Tattoo didn't peal like a sun burn at first, ...
  A: Elizabeth, I am sorry to tell you this but you did everything wrong that you could have possibly ...
infection??!??10/17/2006
  Q: i got a tattoo 10 days ago. the layer of skin peeled of except for one part in the middle where ...
  A: Brian, Sounds like the yellow area was overworked. DO NOT pick the scab let it flake off naturally. ...
new tattoo irritation10/16/2006
  Q: i just got a new tattoo on saturday. ive done everything they told me to do. its on my high leg ...
  A: Cynthia, You may indeed have an infection or the tattooist may have overworked the skin. Please ...
Bumps on tattoo10/16/2006
  Q: I have no idea what it could be because i got it done about 1 year ago and has been fine ever since. ...
  A: Zoe, Apparently there were some impurities in the pigment which was used. Such as a splinter is ...
Lower Back tattoo10/15/2006
  Q: getting a tattoo in the lower back painful..
  A: Sheila, First off let me apologize for taking a few days to get back to you. My email has been ...
The Question..10/15/2006
  Q: Im making tattoos.i started when i was 17.now im 21 and i was wondering if any of you could tell me ...
  A: Dado, First off let me apologize for taking a few days to get back to you. My email has been ...
tattoo problem10/15/2006
  Q: I got my frist tattoo last Saturday, and am experiencing problems with it healing. I have to wear ...
  A: Tammy, First off let me apologize for taking a few days to get back to you. My email has been ...
Polynesian design10/14/2006
  Q: Im am looking to get a polynesian tattoo with many difrent design in it on my arm i was wonder if u ...
  A: Chris, First off let me apologize for taking a few days to get back to you. My email has been ...
swollen feet10/14/2006
  Q: Firstly, thank you for your help. here is my problem, i had a new tattoo 3days ago(Monday) on my ...
  A: Fanta1011, First off let me apologize for taking a few days to get back to you. My email has been ...
helpp plzz10/13/2006
  Q: so ive had my nose pierced for bout a year and i got a beaded nose ring and i tried puttin it in but ...
  A: Nicole, First off let me apologize for taking a few days to get back to you. My email has been ...
Solid Black Tattoo10/13/2006
  Q: I got a quite large solid black tattoo on my lower back two days ago and have been very careful ...
  A: Lorz, First off let me apologize for not being able to get back to you for a few days. My email has ...
My tattoo Color10/12/2006
  Q: I just reacently got my first tattoo about 2 weeks ago, its af a big Red, Yellow, orange, and White ...
  A: Algis, White pigment is one of the hardest colors to take in the skin. If your PH level is too high ...
Tattoo color10/12/2006
  Q: I'm thinking about getting my first tattoo in a few weeks, and want to get small lettering in a pale ...
  A: Ellen, The lighter the color the quicker the fade. Since light pink is one of the lightest colors, ...
Placement10/11/2006
  Q: Ok so i will soon be getting a tattoo but i am unsure about where to place it. i either want it in ...
  A: Jason, The choice of placement is a personal choice and noone can help you with that decision. ...
color10/11/2006
  Q: is it true african americans can not get white on there tattoos?.
  A: Veronica, Tattoo pigments are translucsent and let light pass through. Because of this lighter ...
Tattoo pricing and artist rating10/11/2006
  Q: I haven't gone into a shop yet, because I have been comparing different tattoo artists in my area ...
  A: Christine, After looking at everyone's work I would have to say that Wendy Hamilton from Tidewater ...
Red Ink reactions10/10/2006
  Q: I had a tattoo re-done in May of this year on my lower back, the original was all black, the artist ...
  A: Deanna, You are having what is commonly refered to as a "Red Reaction" which is an allergic ...
Infected tattoo? or allergic reaction10/10/2006
  Q: I went out and got a tattoo on the top of my foot about a little over a week ago. its already has ...
  A: Mrs. Fosoty, First off stop using Neosporin on your tattoo. Triple anti biotic ointments are the ...
reaction on scar tissue10/9/2006
  Q: firstly thank you for your time. I recently had a large tattoo on my arm, it went right through the ...
  A: Alex, You are having an allergic reaction to the cream you are using. Discontinue use of all ...
pricing10/9/2006
  Q: i want to know how much a six by six inch cross would be in louisville kentucky ...
  A: Eric, The first thing to understand is that photo is of someone elses personal design and a true ...
is a tattoo carreeer a good one10/8/2006
  Q: i have resently thought about tattooing as a carreer i don't have a gun but i did a tat on my ...
  A: Veronica, India Ink IS NOT tattooing pigment. It is highly toxic and can lead to severe infections, ...
Itchy bump like pimples on tat10/8/2006
  Q: I had my tattoo done over a month ago. It healed nicely, then 7 days ago, I started noticing itchy ...
  A: BJ, First off stop using the lotion you are only aggravating the problem. Usually when pimple type ...
tragus peircing10/7/2006
  Q: i've been wanting to get my tragus peirced for the longest time, but my dad is paranoid about me ...
  A: Atheima, A true professional will not tattoo or pierce anyone under 18 for any reason. If you find ...
lower body10/7/2006
  Q: i am a guy i wanna get a tatto on my lower body more like lower then belly button ...is it cool for ...
  A: Alo, The location of the tattoo is a personal choice and decision. Any place is "COOL" as long as ...
how soon?10/6/2006
  Q: just a quick question, i got my tattoo 7 days ago and want to know if its kewl to shower now or ...
  A: James, There is no reason why you could not shower. It's OK to shower with a new tattoo just don't ...
Blisters?10/6/2006
  Q: Does it cost anything to get a touchup from an artist other than the original? If so, how much do ...
  A: Daniel, Any artist other than the original (and sometimes the original), will charge you for the ...
tattoo placement10/6/2006
  Q: I am considering getting my second tattoo on my wrist. I have fairly small wrists and very visible ...
  A: Alicia, I am truly sorry if you did not like the answer I gave you but I told you only the truth. I ...
tattoo licence10/5/2006
  Q: I was wondering on how you go about getting a tattoo licence for the state of kansas. What all needs ...
  A: Dan, You can visit http://www.ubtat2d.com/laws.html to find out about Kansas licensing requirements ...
Extemrely heavy scabbing on tattoo10/5/2006
  Q: My tattoo is 4 days old and is still red around some areas on the inside of my forearm and wrist. ...
  A: Eric, First off you should not be using soap and water on the tattoo as it has a tendency to knock ...
Tattooing10/4/2006
  Q: Ok, im on level 4 of 6 levels of learning kanji (japanese writing) and japanese languge, ive always ...
  A: Eddy, Quite simply do not attempt to tattoo on yourself especially if you have had no training. And ...
Blisters?10/4/2006
  Q: Hey. I got a tattoo about 30 days from a very reputable tattoo artist. I got a nice black tribal ...
  A: Daniel, Hate to tell you this but a "Reputable Tattoo Artist" would not have rendered the type of ...
infected tattoo10/4/2006
  Q: I got 2 tattoo's on my calfs 2 1/2 weeks ago. Both got infected, and I was put un antibiotics for ...
  A: Tommy, Sounds to me like you went to the wrong tattooist. Not only did you get an infection but ...
meaning of tattoo10/3/2006
  Q: Im thinking about tattoo. I like the polynesian one. But I don't know almost nth about its meaning. ...
  A: Liba, Do a simple web search with the search string of "POLYNESIAN, TATTOO, SYMBOLS" and a whole ...
ankle tattoo10/3/2006
  Q: I am considering getting a tattoo on my ankle in the near future but I have a few questions before I ...
  A: Angela, If you are prone to Keloids it is not a good idea to consider a tattoo. It really makes no ...
tattoo licence10/3/2006
  Q: i am woundering about how to get my tattoo licence. im only 17, but my high school said they can ...
  A: Jesse, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist or ...
Tattoo's and scaring.9/28/2006
  Q: scar tissue. I scar very easily but I wan't a tattoo. I was wondering if that is a problem for ...
  A: Jessica, If you are prone to scarring ie; Keloids, I would strongly advise against getting a tattoo ...
tattoo peeling9/27/2006
  Q: about 5 days after getting a new tattoo done, i have been applying bepanthen cream 3 times a day, as ...
  A: Louise, I do not know who told you to apply Bepanthen Cream to your tattoo but they did not know ...
faded tattoo9/27/2006
  Q: hey. i got my tattoo about 3 weeks ago. it doesnt hurt or anything anymore. but for some reason it ...
  A: Jonathan, A lot of things can cause fading from improper aftercare to artist error. Without ...
tattoo problem9/20/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo almost 2 weeks ago on my wrist. I started getting red bumps on my arm and hand some ...
  A: Kelly, More than likely it is something other than an allergic reaction. This is not normal ...
raised bumps9/20/2006
  Q: I recieved a tattoo about 3-4 weeks ago. It is a purple flower on the inner side of my right ...
  A: Jennifer, You are having an allergic reaction to the healing ointment you used on the tattoo. ...
Lip Tattoo9/20/2006
  Q: I recently just got a lip tattoo a few days ago. It has already faded. I`m not exagerating either. ...
  A: Alyssa, Due to the high acid content within the mouth lip tattoos NEVER last. More than likely what ...
pimples on tatttoos9/12/2006
  Q: if the GYPSY told us not to put anything on after you see a rash or pimples around the tattoo. then ...
  A: Jonathan, The tattoo needs to dry out for the tattoo to clear up. Putting anything else on it will ...
red bumps9/12/2006
  Q: i got my first tattoo on thursday (7th). i started using a & d ointment and on monday (11th) i ...
  A: Jonathan, You are having an allergic reaction to the A&D Ointment. Discontinue use immediately and ...
Raised bumps on red ink9/11/2006
  Q: Would this also cause it to itch and feel like its burnt.Also is there a way to speed up the ...
  A: Dave, Yes, the itching and burning are from the red reaction. There is no way to speed up the ...
Tattoo9/11/2006
  Q: I am very allergic to some metals, gold, silver and some metals. Does that matter when i get a tat?
  A: Andrew, Professional pigments contain no metal. But if you have allergies I would advise getting a ...
white ink9/11/2006
  Q: I have had the white redone on my tattoo. Both times it has disappeared. What can be done to correct ...
  A: Stewart, Nothing can be done about it. White is made up of a different compound than other ...
Query on Ink Leaking into Skin?9/10/2006
  Q: I have just read an answer you gave to someone else about this where you said: - 'Unfortunately ...
  A: Sarah, It is not a bruise it is indeed a spreading of the pigment. The red/purple reaction you had ...
Piercing shops in Southwest Kansas9/10/2006
  Q: I am having trouble finding a piercing shop is southwest kansas. I have thought about doing them ...
  A: Big Al, In the State of Kansas you must be State licensed and work in a State licensed facility in ...
Raised bumps on red ink9/9/2006
  Q: I got a tatoo over a year ago and still have areas on all of the red ink that is raised and still ...
  A: Dave, You are experiencing what is known as red reaction which is an allergic reaction to red ...
big itchy pimples on my tattoo9/6/2006
  Q: .. what do you think is the cause of this? and do i need to see a doctor to get rid of them?
  A: Cristine, You are having an allergic reaction to the ointment you are using. Please discontinue use ...
itchy bumps8/28/2006
  Q: i got a sparrow on my foot about one both ago. It looks nice besides the blue in it. There are ...
  A: April, It sounds to me like the tattooist that worked on you may have used a pigment that has a lot ...
Tattoo swelling 1 inch around tattoo8/28/2006
  Q: About 12 hours after getting a new tattoo around my upper arm, there was 1 inch of swelling around ...
  A: Jules, That type of swelling usually does not occur. If the condition persists I would strongly ...
Tattoos & Pregnancy8/26/2006
  Q: Can u get a tattoo when u are pregnant? will it hurt or cause any problems with ur unborn baby. what ...
  A: Satouris, You should wait until 6 weeks after the baby is born to get a tattoo. Your body needs ...
Rib Tattoo8/26/2006
  Q: This Monday (8/28/06) I will be getting a tattoo on my upper left rib - is the pain excruciating or ...
  A: Amanda, Tylenol won't hurt a thing but stay away from asprin as it thins the blood and can bleed ...
raised skin on old tattoos8/25/2006
  Q: during a routine physical today my doctor commented on a tattoo on my shoulder that is raised in ...
  A: Jessi, When a tattoo is rendered too deeply or with the wrong type of pigment the tattooed ...
tattoo artist8/25/2006
  Q: Can anyone be a tattoo artist? if you cant draw and you start now like me at 15 tracing and taking ...
  A: Michelle, I get questions like yours all the time. What you should do first is try to find an ...
raised itchy tattoo8/24/2006
  Q: I received a large flower cover-up on my shoulder balde starting in January 06. I had three sessions ...
  A: Maryanne, Please email me a photo of the entire tattoo and it's affected area so that I can see ...
new tattoo8/24/2006
  Q: I would like to get it finished. The tattoo was done in a shop. However the artist said it was still ...
  A: Dave, A tattoo only takes 7 to 10 days to heal. Anytime that I hear that the line work is "Raised" ...
Tattoo concern questions ... .. .8/23/2006
  Q: I'm planning on getting my first tattoo shortly but am slightly concerned due to some un-encouraging ...
  A: Alison Louise, First and foremost tattoos can not cause paralysis. Whoever told you that has ...
tattoo8/23/2006
  Q: will tattoo artists tattoo my wrist? (the underside with the veins) and are they any more of a risk ...
  A: Simon, Some studios are prevented from tattooing certain areas due to the regulations for their ...
tattoo8/23/2006
  Q: how much would it cost to get a picture of a faded face and a name?
  A: Majestic, Different studios have different rates. What you will pay is dependant on the region ...
tattooing scars8/22/2006
  Q: I have a plastic surgery scar on my stomach and was wondering if it's possible to tattoo it flesh ...
  A: Sallie, Yes, a skilled, licensed, cosmetic or micro pigment implantation technician can assist you ...
Kelis' Tat8/21/2006
  Q: Hey, I was wondering where can I get a clearer drawing of Kelis' tattoo on her back so I can show ...
  A: Mizz-T, The only clear photo that I know of is located at URL ...
Stretching and Fading8/21/2006
  Q: hows it going. Read alot of your answers and there Great. Keep it up. Now ive got afew tattoos and ...
  A: Dave, Every once in a while I have someone write me who has been fed a line of bull by a tattoo ...
licencing8/20/2006
  Q: Im interested in obtaining a Licence in Mississippi, but cant find any info on how to,can you help? ...
  A: Adam, Please visit my laws page at http://www.ubtat2d.com/laws.html There you will find a link for ...
Take Ink Hard8/20/2006
  Q: I recently had a large piece done on the side of my ribs. I have had two previous tattoos on my ...
  A: Scott, Some people have trouble accepting pigment. Most times it is caused by two problems dense ...
Tattoo Scab8/19/2006
  Q: A month a ago I got 2 tattoos on the lower part of my leg. One tattoo is healing fine, but the ...
  A: Kissy, More than likely it is a dead skin build up. Start using baby oil on it 2 to 3 times daily ...
tattoo aftercare8/19/2006
  Q: I have a tattoo on my foot and ut had small bumps around the outline and itches like crazy, i have ...
  A: Jenny, Stop using whatever healing ointment you are currently using on it. You have had an allergic ...
Red Reaction8/18/2006
  Q: I am having a red reaction to my tattoo. I had it done on July 1, 2006. The Dr gave me steriod ...
  A: Carla, Unfortunately Doctors are not schooled nor experienced with the various tattoo reactions. ...
hives after tattoo8/18/2006
  Q: i got a colored tattoo about 3 weeks ago. one week after, i broke out in itchy hives on the tattoo, ...
  A: Kecia, More than likely you had a reaction to the healing ointment you used not the pigment. If you ...
Training8/17/2006
  Q: My son is very interested in becoming a tattoo artist. He has numerous tattoos and would like to ...
  A: Debbie, What your son should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo ...
wrist tattoo and tattoo artist search8/17/2006
  Q: How well do inner wrist tattoos stay? such that is it a good idea to get one there or is the ...
  A: Christina, The wrist is a high wear area and a tattoo in that area may not hold up as well as ...
Pain and Healing8/17/2006
  Q: I want to get a skull tattoo approx. 4 inches x 4 inches on the top part of my outer arm almost near ...
  A: Candee, The area you have choosen for your tattoo is one of the least painful places to get a ...
Tattoo Rash8/16/2006
  Q: Dude I just got a tat done it's black and Red with UV ink The thing is I woke up this morning ...
  A: Ann, UV ink is processed with a substance known as Radium which is a low frequency radioactive ...
tattoo on scars8/16/2006
  Q: My boyfriend has some scars from cuts on his upper arm, they are 18 months old and he would like to ...
  A: Maya, I myself am very experienced in scar cover-ups being the person who developed and refined the ...
Prenancy and tattoos'7/27/2006
  Q: My daughter is 6 months prenant and wants do get a tattoo,is it safe for her to do so? Thanks.....
  A: Demi, Your daughter needs to wait until six weeks after the baby is born before getting tattooed or ...
tattoo design, native american7/26/2006
  Q: there's a 'native american' tatto design I want to get, but I'm not sure of it's meaning. Hawkeye ...
  A: FBT, I am going to refer you to Dick Warsocki at; Grinn And Barrett Tattoo Studio 5002 Center ...
Tattoos7/26/2006
  Q: I would like to get a tattoos on my lower back not a big on just a small one but I heard a while ago ...
  A: Dana, It is an old wives tale and, to my knowledge, has no effect on the epideral procedure. ...
18 year old tattooing at home7/25/2006
  Q: My son just called and informed me that a friend at school had just given him his first tattoo. ...
  A: Lisa, First and foremost your concern should really be that this friend of your sons tattooed him. ...
Red itchy bumps. Help.7/24/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo of a star exactly a week ago, on the 17th. It's on my lower back, on the right side. ...
  A: Samantha, You are experiencing an allergic reaction to the A&D ointment. Discontinue use of ALL ...
Tattoo Question7/23/2006
  Q: Is the comedy vs tragedy faces tattoo gang related? what does it mean? Thanks, ...
  A: Kevin, The Comedy and Tragedy masks are theaspian (actor) symbols and are representative of the ...
Tattoo on foot7/23/2006
  Q: I would like to get a tat on the bottom of my foot, but due to natural extra skin etc, I was ...
  A: Lauren, The two things to know about getting a tattoo on the bottom of the foot is this: 1. It ...
meaning of.....7/22/2006
  Q: i was just wondering if there is a meaning behind having lips tattooed on your neck.
  A: Alex, You like hickey's? LOL! No not really, there is no special meaning behind it except whatever ...
MEANING7/21/2006
  Q: WHAT DOES A GECKO ON THE LEFT SHOULDER IN THE BACK OF THE BODY MEAN?
  A: Joseph, Gecko's are usually considered watchers. One on the back would probably be akin to someone ...
drawing design7/21/2006
  Q: So after wanting to get a tattoo for a few years I am expierimenting with drawing my own design. I ...
  A: Mary, The first thing that I will tell you is that the key word here is "ARTIST" You have to make ...
Tattoo Infection causes7/20/2006
  Q: My husband and I recently (12 days ago) got our first tattoos. We went to a local reputable tattoo ...
  A: Cherridah, It is very possible to be allergic to tattoo pigment especially red which cause an ...
older tattoo rash?7/19/2006
  Q: i have a ttoo on my arm that is about two years old and just got hive like bumps and is slightly ...
  A: Darren, Have you ever had a splinter? What is happening to you is a lot like the body rejecting a ...
dry heal tattoo7/19/2006
  Q: i read on one of your answers and you said use baby oil to lift dead skin. if i dobnt use baby oil ...
  A: Dan, New skin will continue to grow under the dead skin and could cause a calus type condition. ...
TATOO PLACEMENT7/18/2006
  Q: I have decided to get a tatoo of the Japanese Symbols for the word "Bushido" I am a professional ...
  A: Mark, First and foremost your wife is mistaken. There is no "WOMAN" place for a tattoo and likewise ...
Weeping tattoo7/18/2006
  Q: I got a new tattoo on my calf last Friday. 3 turtles, mostly shades of blue, and a little white. Its ...
  A: Desiree, You have a severe infection. Please contact a physician as soon as possible for treatment. ...
Scabbing7/18/2006
  Q: It all sounds really wierd to me...the fact that two different tattoo artists from different shops ...
  A: JC, First off H2Ocean is a crap product and is only recomended by people who do not know any ...
Scabbing7/18/2006
  Q: I have two tattoos...both on my inner forearms...one is all black and the other is colored with much ...
  A: JC, Unfortunately you are wrong on both counts. Heavy scabbing IS due to improper tattooing ...
Tattooing over a stretched keloid7/18/2006
  Q: I recieved a keloid when I was 12 years old due to shoulder surgery to repair a broken growth plate. ...
  A: Les, If the tattooist is a licensed, skilled and qualified professional they should be able to ...
apprenticeship requirements7/17/2006
  Q: I am fervent to become a tattoo apprentice/artist; I refuse to be a scratcher. I have a BFA in ...
  A: Anya, I get questions like yours all the time. Many schools, including Red Cross, have Pathogens ...
Cracked Tattoo7/17/2006
  Q: Hey, Got a small black tattoo done about a week back on my wrist, following the aftercare ...
  A: Sash, Your tattooist should have told you that the wrist is a diffulcult area to heal. If the ...
Bird Tattoos7/16/2006
  Q: Someone has already asked you about the meaning of the bird tattoo. I was wondering if you had any ...
  A: Em, The swallow tattoo is, as you have already read, a sign of enduring or everlasting love. Any ...
cover up7/16/2006
  Q: I have a small (5 inches) black and gret gargoil type tattoo that I got maybe 6 years ago. I am ...
  A: Jason, Tattoo pigments are translucent and darker colors will always show through lighter colors. ...
Weeping ink7/15/2006
  Q: I just reccently got a tattoo and there was weeping ink the first day. I have continued to keep ...
  A: Kerri, The tattoo will slightly bleed within it's first days of completion. This is normal as the ...
tattoo aftercare7/15/2006
  Q: I just got a new tattoo and used a Triple antibiotic ointment thinking it was the same as A&D ...
  A: Chris, Your tattooist should have explained to you that you never use any form of triple ...
Aftercare Inquiry7/14/2006
  Q: Im fully aware of all the tattoo aftercare instructions, but I was curious to Why they are what they ...
  A: Shannon, Chlorine is the main ingrediant in bleach and just like bleach chlorine can pull the color ...
Gecko tattoo7/14/2006
  Q: im planning to get a tattoo of a gecko on my foot to comemorate my uncle who past away. Now if a ...
  A: Jessica, Here is the one thing about tattoos that everybody should always keep in mind; It does not ...
Tattoo help7/13/2006
  Q: Im 14 and im thinking of getting a tattoo for my 15th birth day or 16th on my lower back and i am ...
  A: Jenna, A tattoo sensation is an aggravating pain not a hurtful pain. It's like stubbing your toe, ...
covering scars with tattoos7/12/2006
  Q: 20 years ago I had a breakout on my legs (maybe chicken pox). This left me with a lot of little ...
  A: Simone, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if the scar is ...
Covering exsisting tattoo!7/12/2006
  Q: I have a tattoo i got on the back of my neck about 2 years ago. It's very small and all black. I ...
  A: Lindsie, In order to cover a tattoo properly you need two things, Color and Detail. As long as you ...
Tattoo on the arch of the foot7/12/2006
  Q: My wife got a celtic tattoo on the side of her foot, right above the arch, about a month ago. It is ...
  A: Justin, If the tattoo is on the arch of the foot not only is the healing time longer but the tattoo ...
tattoo licence7/12/2006
  Q: I live in scottsdale AZ. I was woundering if they had a law that you have to have an aprenticep to ...
  A: Clint, Please visit my LAW page at http://www.ubtat2d.com/laws/arizona.html for a list of Arizona ...
first tattoo7/10/2006
  Q: i am about to get my very first tattoo and i want it on my lower back, however i am a puss when it ...
  A: Monica, Let's deal with your pain issue first. Tattoo pain can be likened to a sunburn. It is not a ...
Navel piercing7/10/2006
  Q: I want to get my navel pierced. Im 15. My mom said she would take me this week but Im going to a big ...
  A: Rebecca, I always strongly advise that someone under 18 years of age should not get pierced or ...
birthmark/safety7/9/2006
  Q: Aloha! I plan to get a tattoo, first one, on july 10th on my shin. I have a birthmark there the ...
  A: Christina, NEVER tattoo over a birth mark. If the tattooist you are seeing is a true, licensed, ...
Tattooing young?7/8/2006
  Q: What happens if a person gets a tattoo while they're still growning? Will the tattoo become ...
  A: Kal, Good question and I hope you heed my response. You should never get a tattoo or piercing ...
Lettering Cost7/8/2006
  Q: I am getting a couple ukrainian words on my forearms , yeCTb ( honor ) and another that is 9 letters ...
  A: Sam, Rates vary from studio to studio depending on region, location, skill of artist, fame of ...
Tattoo meaning7/7/2006
  Q: I have a picture of a tattoo but do not know the meaning...are you able to help me? Thank you,Heidi ...
  A: Heidi, You may email it to me. Go to my website at http://www.ubtat2d.com Go to the email link and ...
New tattoo, black ink fading after 6 days7/7/2006
  Q: I have a new tattoo (6 days old) composed of thin, sharp, black lines and black shading. The image ...
  A: Michael, If you knocked off the protective crust before the healing was complete then you lost some ...
lettering size on tats7/7/2006
  Q: I went to Vegas and was going to get my 1st tat. I wanted two cherries hanging from a stem with the ...
  A: Stephanie, You went to the wrong place! I have myself rendered lettering as small as 1/4" high. The ...
Asian tattoo7/6/2006
  Q: When I was living in Singapore I saw a tattoo that covered most of the back of the woman who had it. ...
  A: Bob, More than likely it was a design that was created for her by a skilled artist. Whatever ...
small bumps in tattoo7/6/2006
  Q: i've had my tattoo for over three years and all has been fine with it. However, in the lasts week ...
  A: Ash, This is usually caused by two things in combination with each other. A tattoo that was ...
Naval tatoo6/29/2006
  Q: My father had a tatoo of a sparrow or a swallow, I am not sure which one. One one each side of his ...
  A: Trevor, A sparrow, or more accurately a swallow tattoo is a symbol of everlasting love that always ...
allergic reaction??6/29/2006
  Q: 3 weeks ago i got a colorful tattoo covering the lower half of my back.reds, yellows, greens. for ...
  A: Leslie, You are having an severe allergic reaction to the ointment you are using. Please ...
looking for a Tatto Artist in the Reno, NV area6/29/2006
  Q: I thought you might be able to help me with this question. I have a design that I have drawn and ...
  A: Jen, I do not know anything about the studios in Reno what I can tell you is this. Nevada has some ...
Irritated tattoo?6/28/2006
  Q: About a week and a half ago I got the color on the tattoo on my side. Now there are red bumps that ...
  A: Ian, You are having an allergic reaction to the ointment you are using. Please discontinue use ...
healing time6/27/2006
  Q: I had a discreet tribal armband on June 20th.No line on it is thicker than say 8mm. the majority a ...
  A: Harvey, Please do not use hand cream on the tattoo that would be a mistake. It sounds like you may ...
heavy scabbed/infected tattoo6/27/2006
  Q: I just got my forst tattoo 2 weeks ago. It did get infected/red and swollen. I called the place ...
  A: Karen, Anytime you contract an infection it is a good idea to contact a physician immediately. An ...
cover up/scar tissue6/26/2006
  Q: 4 years ago I got a small black tattoo on my lower stomach which was very horribly done and left me ...
  A: Al, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if the scar is ...
hairless tattoo6/26/2006
  Q: It's not the gender thing that worries me....its more the fact that I would have one arm shaved...or ...
  A: JC, No different than an unshaved arm. People don't think about it unless you are in competition. ...
Ink fading in tattoo6/26/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo about 7 days ago. My artist said to after about 1-2 hours take the bandage off and ...
  A: Jessica, The best way that I can answer this for you is to first go to my FAQ page at ...
How deep for proper tattooing.6/25/2006
  Q: I am new to the art of giving tattoos. I have yet to do real skin and am actually in the process of ...
  A: Aaron, The advice that you were given was given to you from my 30 plus years of experience in this ...
Scarring and tattoos6/25/2006
  Q: I had surgery over a year ago on the back of my arms. I have 2 long scars on them that are smooth ...
  A: Harley John-Charles, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if ...
foot tatoo6/25/2006
  Q: l would like to get a tatoo of a small flower on my big toe,what l would like to know is there any ...
  A: Teresa, Foot tattoos can be summed up in one sentence; They are more painful than other tattoos ...
Itching6/24/2006
  Q: I have a tattoo on my ankle that was done almost 3 years ago. Suddenly a couple of weeks ago it ...
  A: Mandy, This is usually caused by two things in combination with each other. A tattoo that was ...
Scarred Tattoo Cover Up6/24/2006
  Q: About 8 years ago, I got a small tattoo on my right arm that ended up getting scarred. It was raised ...
  A: Erin, As long as the complete healing is over a year old you should have no problems with a ...
TATOOS6/24/2006
  Q: WHAT DOES A GECKO ON THE LOWER LEFT SIDE OF THE STOMACH,RIGHT ABOVE THE PRIVATE AREA MEAN?
  A: Dave, In some cultures a Gecko is a representation of life. Others use it to signify clan ...
Laerning the right way the 1st time...6/23/2006
  Q: is my intention (incase it wasn't clear in the 1st question). And the artist that did my bro's ...
  A: Daniel, No it is not sufficent training. Proper training takes approx. 1200 hours in the studio ...
after care6/23/2006
  Q: Hey Gypsy, I got an awesome tatoo last week, and my very first one. Its my code of arms and its ...
  A: J.C., You should only use Vitamin E on a tattoo after it is totally healed (aprox. 30 days). ...
hairless tattoo6/23/2006
  Q: I have a large tattoo on the inside of my arm...just wondering if I should shave my arm or ...
  A: JC, A lot of tattoo collectors shave their entire bodies to better display their art. The choice to ...
bumps on tattoo6/23/2006
  Q: I got my first tattoo on my foot One week ago. I have been washing it with Caress soap and putting ...
  A: Alese, First and foremost you are not suppose to wash the tattoo with any form of soap during the ...
polynesian symbols for family6/23/2006
  Q: I am looking for the polynesian symbol for family. My family and I would like to get a tattoo ...
  A: Lori, I did am extensive search for you on the internet today trying to locate something for you ...
Bad Tattoo, scarring and Infection6/22/2006
  Q: My two best friends and I got matching 1 inch raindrops tattooed onto the outside of our ankle. We ...
  A: Aliza, Before I can answer your question I need just a little more info: 1. Did you go to a ...
Follow-Up Question6/21/2006
  Q: The artist/shop that I went to gives free touch ups; should I stick with this shop and return after ...
  A: Jessica, The rule of thumb that I have always followed is this: If they messed you up once, why ...
prices for apprenticeship in kansas6/21/2006
  Q: I live in South East Kansas, and was wanting an idea for prices to get an apprenticeship. I talked ...
  A: Tracy, The cost of the apprenticeship is directly related to the skill of the artist teaching you. ...
tattoo problem..very worried!!6/20/2006
  Q: i got a tattoo last week and after i went home a couple days ago at the really dark places it looked ...
  A: Shanna, You are probably having an allergic reaction to whatever healing ointment you are using. My ...
Ink too far?6/20/2006
  Q: He does have a studio and I did see him open everything before he used it so I know they were ...
  A: Amy, That possibility is there but your description does not coincide with the symptoms of an ...
Ink too far?6/20/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo on 6/17/06 from a friend who has been doing them since December 2005. He was adding ...
  A: Amy, I think it is very possible that if your friend is not a licensed, qualifued professional ...
Meaning of razor blade, cut throat razor tattoos6/20/2006
  Q: the question subject, kindof sums my question up. wat is the meaning of this tattoo.... ...
  A: Martin, The straight razor tattoo is exactly what you have already stated... A Cut Throat Tattoo. ...
allergic reaction6/20/2006
  Q: i am allergic to neosporin and bacitracin, what else can i use to put on my tattoo that will not ...
  A: Chris, You have several alternatives that you can use. First though let me just tell you that ...
to fade a tattoo6/19/2006
  Q: the person person doing the tattoo was new and made a litte oops on the outer area of the lower lid, ...
  A: Marge, Sorry no there isn't except time. This is a case where going to an experienced person is ...
Allergic reaction6/19/2006
  Q: I had work done on my second tattoo a little over a week ago on my shoulder/upper back/upper arm. ...
  A: Mike, You ARE haveing an allergic reaction to the A&D ointment. The allergy can develop at anytime ...
tattoo scabbing heavily6/19/2006
  Q: I just got a 5th tattoo (all black, inside of right bicep) from a very reputable shop and am having ...
  A: Nellie, If you scabbed heavy, if the skin is tender and it looks like there is no color then more ...
to fade a tattoo6/19/2006
  Q: how do you get permanent eyeliner to fade that is about 3-4 months old? thank you
  A: Marge, There is an old saying (which I originated), "NOTHING IS FOREVER EXCEPT GOD, DIAMONDS, DEATH ...
I need a quote.6/18/2006
  Q: I want to get a tattoo of an angel on my left arm. She would be about 3 1/2 inches tall, 1 1/2 wide ...
  A: Cory, First off I can't (nor can any other studio or artsit) give you a quote without actually ...
Tattoo Color While Healing6/17/2006
  Q: I got an ankle tattoo at a reptuable tattoo and piercing shop about a week ago. Now as the tat is ...
  A: Jessica, I would question whether the shop you got worked on at is that reputable if they are ...
about white ink6/17/2006
  Q: im useing three diferent types one is fantasia,another is from powerline, and one i dont no the name ...
  A: Yorkie, White is a nuetral pigment and does not act the same in the skin as other pigments. ...
how to.....6/16/2006
  Q: ive been wanting to do tattos since i was twelve, but i dont know how to go abuot doing it. advice?
  A: Jacy, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist or ...
licensing6/16/2006
  Q: I am a tattoo artist in Georgia & would like to know if u have any tips on getting licenced
  A: Kurt, Check with your local licensing board. Usually it is the Health Department or Board of ...
running with a fresh tattoo6/15/2006
  Q: I'm just got my tattoo yesterday on the back of my calf, I'm a runner and I have a national race ...
  A: Seth, The sweat is not the best thing in the world for a healing tattoo but it should not effect ...
tattoo cleaning6/14/2006
  Q: my tattoo is only 2 days i want to know how long or how many times do i clean it a day to i keep it ...
  A: Efron, I have to say that I am amazed that your tattooist did not give you any aftercare ...
ear tattoos6/14/2006
  Q: This question isnt really about the placement, the pain, or anything else like that. I am just ...
  A: Halley, Three things that I have been able to use in the ear with great success are geometric ...
Swollen ankle6/14/2006
  Q: I have recently had a tattoo done on the side of my legabout 2 inches above my ankle its red, black, ...
  A: Rachael, Foot and ankle tattoos are one of the hardest types of tattoos to heal. They often stay ...
Foot Tattoo6/14/2006
  Q: on sunday i got a tattoo on my foot. It is my second. it is now tuesday and the tat is slightly red ...
  A: Nicole, Foot and ankle tattoos are one of the hardest types of tattoos to heal. They often stay red ...
muscles6/13/2006
  Q: I heard that tattoos can cause you to loose muscle mass. Is this true?
  A: Simon, Tattoos have no effect on muscle mass whatsoever! This is a myth propagated by the ignorant ...
WORRIED!6/13/2006
  Q: I have several questions. Since I'm someone that shows my back alot i don't feel alot of confort ...
  A: Jeanette, You have a lot of good questions so we will address them one at a time: 1. Your reason ...
new tattoo6/12/2006
  Q: I just got a tattoo on my foot two days ago and it is still real red. Is this normal?
  A: Mandy, Foot and ankle tattoos are one of the hardest types of tattoos to heal. They often stay red ...
Tattoo infection6/12/2006
  Q: I had a lower back tattoo done about three weeks ago which seemed to ahve healed only to have ...
  A: Gemma, You may either have a infection or you may have developed a severe reaction to the pigment ...
tattooing over scars6/11/2006
  Q: Can you tattoo over Keloid scars?
  A: Dustin, Sorry, no you can't! And the truth of the matter is that if you tend to keloid you should ...
Tattoo for Tummy Tuck Scar6/10/2006
  Q: I have a long scar from a tummy tuck I had and I was wondering if it is difficult to cover a scar ...
  A: Michelle, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a diffulcult and tedious process. Also, if the scar ...
Tattoos and keloiding6/10/2006
  Q: I'm very interested in getting at tattoo but I have a slight medical condition. I keloid. If ...
  A: Ben, Having been in this business for more than 30 years I am more than familiar with the effect of ...
needles6/10/2006
  Q: How many needles for each part of the tattoo?(i.e. out-line, body,shading, and etc.....)I'am a ...
  A: Margaret, Here is some advise that may help set you on the right path; What you should do first ...
Tattoos and sun6/9/2006
  Q: I know the care required for a new and/or healing tattoo regarding sun. I've had my tattoo for a ...
  A: Misty, To maintain the color and clarity of your tattoo you need to use a sunblock of SPF 30 or ...
Discoloration following tattoo6/8/2006
  Q: My husband and I both got tattoos a couple days ago, mine is doing fine, but my husband's looks kind ...
  A: Lori, Sounds like the tattoo is inflamed. This is not uncommon with tattoos done on or near the ...
My tattoo is pussing6/8/2006
  Q: Hey, i just got my first tattoo yesterday a little above my ankle bone...its all black. It looked ...
  A: Alyssa, It sounds like you have two things going on. First you are having an allergic reaction to ...
tattoo parlors in Banff, Alberta6/8/2006
  Q: Hey just wondering if you knew of any good tattoo parlors in Banff, Alberta,
  A: Charlie, I'm sorry but I do not know anything about the studios in that region. You may have to do ...
TATTOO6/8/2006
  Q: the one i got is not to good.can you send me a different web site so i can get more info....thanyou
  A: Luis, First and foremost you should NEVER use any numbing solutions. All numbing solutions act the ...
Scarred Tattoo6/8/2006
  Q: I have an 8 year old tribal tattoo on my arm that is quite scarred and raised. I had the tattoo ...
  A: JT, First off you should take a $20.00 bill and lay it over the tattoo. That will do you about as ...
Tattoo allergies?6/8/2006
  Q: I recently started getting tattooed, I only have two at this point, but my most recent one, seems to ...
  A: Nicole, You have what is known as "RED REACTION" it is an allergic reaction to the red pigment. It ...
Infected tattoo?5/26/2006
  Q: My wife and I got married in Oct. of 05 and we drove to the east coast for our honeymoon to get ...
  A: LEIF, What happened was you experienced an allergic reaction to the healing ointment you used. Your ...
Raised, itchy and sensitive tattoo5/26/2006
  Q: Now since this is the problem, is their anything i can do about it besides waiting for my body to ...
  A: Jenn, There is an old saying.... TIME HEALS ALL WOUNDS. That is really the only thing you have at ...
tattoo5/25/2006
  Q: I HAVE SENSITIVE SKIN AND WANTING TO GET A TATTOO, WHAT ARE THE CHANCES OF HAVING AN ALLERGIC ...
  A: Kim, If you have a real concern with sensative skin, have your tattooist run a small test area of ...
numbness in leg after tattoo5/25/2006
  Q: I just finished up my tattoo yesterday with a grueling 4 hour session. The day before that I sat ...
  A: Shari, Yes I have heard of this condition before. It is caused by a tattooist that does not know ...
Covering up a Tattoo5/25/2006
  Q: Hey there! I have 12 tattoos, and i LOVE them all they are very fun! But here is my problem. I am ...
  A: Shannon, Sorry that your friend is that narrow minded and backward but not everyone can be a free ...
Tattoo Leakage5/25/2006
  Q: i had a tattoo peformed yesterday on my lower left leg above my ankle. Now from what i have read it ...
  A: David, It is normal for a tattoo to seep a little after it is finished. It is just getting rid of ...
Raised, itchy and sensitive tattoo5/25/2006
  Q: I got my tattoo about over a year ago on my lower back. I have noticed that when i have a backpack ...
  A: Jenn, What you are describing is a condition that occurs when a tattooist has gone to deep and laid ...
Wrist Tattoos?5/22/2006
  Q: I want to get my children's names tattooed on my wrist. How small can you get script writing ...
  A: Laurie, One of the best places on line to find fonts is right on your own computer. Using your ...
Severe Scarring with Raised Scars and Tattoos5/22/2006
  Q: I have severe scarring that pretty much goes the whole length of my back and on my chest. Most of ...
  A: Steven, If you have dermabrasion you would have to wait another year before getting your scars ...
ink opinion5/22/2006
  Q: I am currently using starbright inks an I like the consistency for the most part but what I want to ...
  A: Jason, In order to use Pelikan as a viable tattooing pigment it must be double boiled to 2/3 ...
aricle on piercing5/22/2006
  Q: i am a deputy editor of a magazine New Style, writing an article on piercing at the moment. can you ...
  A: Elena, Several sources come to mind: http://www.ubtat2d.com http://www.sekpress.net ...
dragon colours5/17/2006
  Q: Just curious on what the meaning of colour is in chinese/tibetan dragons. i know that it can ...
  A: Nick, Generally the color in Asian Dragons have more to do with states of emotion than with age. ...
Tattoo won't heal5/16/2006
  Q: I am a 40 y/o woman and I had a red dragon tattooed on my lower leg 17 months ago and it will not ...
  A: Abrarose, Your appendix has nothing to do with what you are experiencing. You have what is known as ...
Aftercare5/15/2006
  Q: I have over 30 hours of ink on different parts of my body. My latest piece is over my left collar ...
  A: Chris, First off, NEVER use "Tattoo Goo" or "Triple A" on a tattoo. The Goo and the Triple A both ...
Reaction?5/14/2006
  Q: I got my fifth tattoo a little over 3 weeks ago. This one is a full forearm sleeve and much bigger ...
  A: Joe, If the bumps showed up around the outside of the tattoo while you were using the lotion then ...
Meaning of tattoo5/13/2006
  Q: I have a tattoo of a tribal frog on my stomach. I was wondering what the meaning of that is. I was ...
  A: Brent, I have never been to a Russian Prison so what they believe is beyond me. However I can tell ...
Proper protocol5/12/2006
  Q: Quick question I am getting a custom tattoo designed at the moment. I am familiar with the artist, ...
  A: Kyle, Tattooing is a customer service industry. True professionals understand that it is what the ...
licensing5/12/2006
  Q: do i have to go to a school/college to lean how to do tattoos and get licensed.
  A: Rick, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist or ...
tattoo licence5/11/2006
  Q: It has been a passion of mine to become a tattoo artist and i was just wanting to know what will it ...
  A: Kenn, You will have to check with the State of New Jersey to see what their licensing requirements ...
Red Reaction - he said its normal? blisters....5/11/2006
  Q: So about 10 days ago i got a Crest on my ribs under my arm. Black, RED, white, some grey. All ...
  A: Richie, I would question strongly if that is such a "RESPECTED SHOP" if they told you that it is ...
Tattoo Placement5/11/2006
  Q: I am thinking about getting a tattoo. I do not have one yet and was wondering where would be the ...
  A: Abbey, The upper bicep is the least painful of all the areas on the body and can be covered by a ...
swollen leg after tattoo5/9/2006
  Q: i used red intenze ink on my leg 1 day after that my leg swelled up i when to the hospital and the ...
  A: Aaron, The term "STERILIZED INK" is merely a marketing tool. Most professional pigment is ...
possible rejection?5/9/2006
  Q: The Gypsy: This morning I woke up and found a small circular wound on my hip tattoo. It is slightly ...
  A: Lindsey, A wound suddenly opening within a tattoo is not a good thing. This sometimes happens if ...
Tatto over a scar on the stomach5/9/2006
  Q: I wonder if i can get a tatto to cover up a 10 cm long scar that i have on my stomach from an ...
  A: Robin, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if the scar is ...
Infected?5/3/2006
  Q: Im up to my 4th tattoo,but this time its taken three weeks to heal.I used different lotion to heal ...
  A: Sharon, It sounds to me like the tattooist that worked on you may have gone too deep. This would ...
Return Visits5/3/2006
  Q: I know most any quality shop invites you to return for a free touch up if your tattoo ever fades. ...
  A: Steve, I applaud your manners. I wish more people were that considerate. What it will cost you to ...
discoloration around tattoo5/2/2006
  Q: I just got my second tattoo on my foot about three weeks ago. My tattoo looks great, and it has ...
  A: Ranisha, It sounds to me like you have been the victim of an unskilled and inexperienced tattooist. ...
First Tattoo Concerns5/1/2006
  Q: Yesterday I got my first tattoo done at a biker fest. I had it put on my left leg a little above the ...
  A: Terri, The major problem with foot and ankle tattoos is the condition you just described. Not ...
tattoo/piercing4/30/2006
  Q: alright well i have a quick question on the day you go to get a tattoo or a piercing should you eat ...
  A: Alexandria, You should always eat within 4 hours of getting a tattoo and/or piercing. The reason ...
Is an ear lobe fistula permanent?4/30/2006
  Q: my main question is: are ear lobe fistulas permanent? i have year old earlobe piercings that seem ...
  A: Chris, I appreciate your detailed description. Sometimes people do not give me enough info to be ...
meaning of symbol4/29/2006
  Q: what is the meaning of maize?
  A: Andrew, Maize is a Native American word for CORN. It is a cereal grain that was domesticated in ...
Tattoo Insurance4/28/2006
  Q: My son is opening a tattoo shop. Worked with the health dept to have everything to code and the ...
  A: Dianne, You should NOT have "Contract Employees" after they have earned $600.00 they are considered ...
allergic reaction???4/27/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo of two zodiac signs on the back of my neck in late Nov. The leo is in red, and the ...
  A: Mikie, Stop using ointments and creams on the tattoo, you are just aggravating the condition. The ...
bumpy tattoo4/27/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo about 2 months ago and had an allergic reaction to the reddish/brown dye. I've always ...
  A: Arlene, The baby oil is not for bumps it is for layers of dry skin over the tattoo. If you are ...
Studio ownership and management4/27/2006
  Q: Do you think it would be unwise to start a tattoo shop while not being an actual artist? I want to ...
  A: Matt, It is never crazy to want to start a business of your own but before venturing into the world ...
itchy bumby skin4/27/2006
  Q: i have a tat that every now and then gets itchy bumps. whats that all about?
  A: Savage, We generally find that this condition is caused by impurities in the original pigment which ...
tongue piercing4/26/2006
  Q: for my 18th birthday, I was thinking about getting some more piercings and a tattoo, but not all at ...
  A: Nicole, It is not advisable to get a tongue, labret or lip piercing as long as you have a retainer. ...
Raised Tattoo4/25/2006
  Q: I will have had a tribal tattoo on my lower back/buttox for 2 years the 9th of May. Suddenly the ...
  A: Tanya, We generally find that this condition is caused by impurities in the original pigment which ...
Skin over labret4/24/2006
  Q: I got my labrey pierced about 4 weeks ago and just recently ive changed from the extra long bar they ...
  A: Mike, You should not have changed the labret jewelry for at least 60 days after the initial ...
new tattooo4/24/2006
  Q: I just got my first tattoo yesterday a small heart jus below my trouser line, the problem is my ...
  A: Bex, Yes, the stinging is occuring due to the clotheing rubbing on it. Wear loose or no clothing ...
Bumps after three weeks4/24/2006
  Q: I am hoping to find some advice. I got my 8th tattoo 3 weeks ago. It is on the top of my foot, has ...
  A: AP, The problem is with the Lubriderm. Lotions should never be used in the healing of a tattoo! ...
swollen tattoo4/24/2006
  Q: 2 days ago i had a chinese symbol covered up on my ankle with a lage art noveau design around my ...
  A: Rachel, The major problem with foot and ankle tattoos is the condition you just described. Not ...
brusing / running ink4/21/2006
  Q: Hi I read about the brusing / running ink and have the same problem and it will never just go away I ...
  A: Tommy, Check with "The Ink Spot" in Edison, New Jersey. Highly professional and qualified I ...
allergic reaction to the tattoo ink4/21/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo in jan 06 and about 2 months later, after it had already healed nicley, the red part ...
  A: Rhiannon, You and your husband are having what is called "RED REACTION" it is an allergic reaction ...
red itchy bumps 3 weeks after4/20/2006
  Q: I got a flower tat on the top of my foot almost three weeks ago. It is magenta, brown and black. I ...
  A: AP, Please discontinue use of the Lubriderm immediately you are having an allergic reaction to it. ...
tattoos4/19/2006
  Q: i have a series of keloids(only from acne) on my chest and both my shoulders, should i consider(& ...
  A: Paul, If you are prone to keloids you are not a good candidate for tattooing. The tattoos will more ...
Bad tattoo or allergy to red ink4/19/2006
  Q: I recently sent you a e-mail about my bad tattoo job that was done on my forearm. I have since then ...
  A: Jean, OH MY GOD! I got the photo's you sent. My STRONG advise to you is DO NOT GO BACK TO THAT ...
Ear Tattoos, continued.4/19/2006
  Q: I'm inquiring about a tattoo I've been very enthused about getting. The location of the tattoo would ...
  A: Heather, Most artists will discourage this type of tattoo for several reasons: fading, pain, ...
UV/ glow ink tattoo4/18/2006
  Q: I want a UV/ glow tattoo, but i have no idea about it and i am unable to go to studios to ask. ...
  A: Gray, The best advise that I can give you about "GLOW TATTOOS" is stay away from them. In order to ...
color changed4/18/2006
  Q: I have a rainbow tattoo. The red parts have become itchcy and hard and the yellow parts have become ...
  A: Keana, You are having an allergic reaction to the red pigment. It's rare but will happen and is ...
meaning of my tattoo4/18/2006
  Q: it is a masked man holdind a sword vertically accross his chest and face. The lower body is like a ...
  A: Nitin, Honestly, without seeing the picture it sounds like just a design with no particular meaning ...
Portfolio4/17/2006
  Q: that helped a lot! Just one more thing about something you mentioned. How do you copy your art onto ...
  A: Emily, Any printing service can do this for you such as Kinkos or Quick Print. Office Max and ...
Portfolio4/16/2006
  Q: I looking to put a portfolio together for when I go looking for an apprenticeship, but I don't ...
  A: Emily, Putting together a professional portfolio is the easiest thing in the world. You want a ...
red ink4/15/2006
  Q: Why is it that any tattoo I get the red ink areas takes longer to heal? When I wash them and dry ...
  A: Anne, If your husband is having the same problem and you both go to the same studio then I would ...
new tattoo and problems4/13/2006
  Q: had my tat done 6 days ago down on my leg (near ankle). today my ankle has swollen badly (ice pack ...
  A: Barbara, Because of the location, ankle, you are always bound to have healing complications. Some ...
new tattoo got infected, how do I care for it now?4/12/2006
  Q: Okay, I got a tattoo (my first) last week on the lower part of my leg close to the ankle. It ended ...
  A: Krystal, First and foremost you should never use any form of triple anti-biotic ointment on a ...
BREAST CANCER SCAR4/10/2006
  Q: I HAVE JUST FINISHED MY TREATMENTS FOR BREAST CANCER AND NOW HAVE A SCAR ON MY BREAST, I WOULD LIKE ...
  A: Roberta, Yes, scars can be covered and skin pigment matched but it is a difficult and tedious ...
tattoo removal4/10/2006
  Q: I am considering getting my tattoo removed. It is in my pelvic region and I have been thinking that ...
  A: Dina, To date laser has proven to be most effective form of tattoo removal. Keep in mind that it ...
what's the pay scale being...4/10/2006
  Q: what's the pay scale being a tat artist?
  A: Jeff, The rates vary depending on skill, experience, popularity and region. Most artists that work ...
Estimate and studio4/9/2006
  Q: I'm considering getting a tattoo on my lower back and I was wondering what your estimate would be ...
  A: Leli, I cannot give you an estimate on a tattoo. The rates vary from region to region, studio to ...
tattoos on the hand4/9/2006
  Q: Seen a few Indian/Pakistani men, probably Muslim, that have small, charactors tattooed on their ...
  A: Mark, You are correct in some cultures a tattoo is used as a mark of shame. However it can also be ...
Funny.4/8/2006
  Q: I'm reading through your response, and I just don't get it. Not because I'm daft, but mostly becuse ...
  A: Lizzie, Here are the facts: Tattooing is illegal in Oklahoma. Anyone tattooing in Oklahoma is ...
Tattoos & Blood-thinners4/8/2006
  Q: Gypsy: My question is in regard to tattoos and blood thinners. Without going into unneccesary ...
  A: Tom, You will find that true professional artists, myself included, will not tattoo on people with ...
Funny.4/7/2006
  Q: It's funny how you're telling people that the tattooists here in OK are unprofessional and dirty. ...
  A: Lizzie, I wasn't going to address your rude and unprofessional statements but I changed my mind ...
My partner Tiffany, and I...4/6/2006
  Q: My partner Tiffany, and I are doing a project in our physics class on tattooing. Part of the ...
  A: Addie and Tiffany, Most of your questions can be answered by visiting my website at ...
education4/4/2006
  Q: I love tatoos and piercings and I want to make a career out of it, I know I need some kind of ...
  A: Samantha, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist ...
Bad Tattoo4/3/2006
  Q: Maybe you could answer this question. I recently had a tattoo done by a tattoo shop and the artist ...
  A: Jean, First off please forgive me for taking a couple of days to get back to you. I have been under ...
Foot tattoo4/3/2006
  Q: I want to get a tattoo on both my feet that would look like I had permanent flip-flops on. Do you ...
  A: Dru, First off let me apologize for taking a couple of days to get back to you. I have been under ...
gauging ears4/3/2006
  Q: my husband was gauging his ears he was up to an inch and one of the peircings blew out in the back ...
  A: Amber, First off let me apologize for taking a couple of days to answer your question. I have been ...
How long will this take?4/3/2006
  Q: I've seen a tattoo of a garland of flowers running down the back of the singer Kelis (which can be ...
  A: Emily, First off let me apologize for taking a couple of days to get back to you. I have been under ...
tattoo licensing, permits4/1/2006
  Q: I am a soldier in Iraq and I love tattoo's I have two one of which I did during my last tour in ...
  A: Larry, First off let me apologize for taking a couple of days to get back to you. I have been under ...
Tattoing over a scar3/31/2006
  Q: My name is Sara and i'm 17. I was born with a birth defect called Gastroschisis. Basically, i was ...
  A: Sara, First off let me apologise for taking a couple of days to get back to you. We have had severe ...
tattoos3/29/2006
  Q: Can you get a tattoo if you are under 18 with a parents signature?
  A: Brandon, First off let me apologise for taking a couple of days to get back to you. We have had ...
Tatooing Over a Scar3/29/2006
  Q: In all your experience, have you ever tattood over a scar that was left from a tummy tuck? It's a ...
  A: Jane, First off let me apologise for taking a couple of days to get back to you. We have had severe ...
Do you know of any tattoo...3/28/2006
  Q: Do you know of any tattoo artists in the NYC area that specialize in stretch Mark cover-ups? Can you ...
  A: Nelly, First off let me apologise for taking a couple of days to answer. We have had some severe ...
Dragon and tiger Tattoo Meaning3/28/2006
  Q: I'm thinking of getting another tattoo and have been looking at different Tiger and Dragon Tattoos, ...
  A: Marty, First off let me apologise for taking a couple of days to get back to you. We have had ...
Reputable tatttoo shop3/27/2006
  Q: .I was wondering if you could receommed a reputable tattoo shop in the West Mifflin/Pittsburgh ...
  A: Dana, The last time I recomeended a studio in your area the person did not like my response. I will ...
tattoo aftercare3/27/2006
  Q: my question is.... i just got a tattoo on my upper arm. its not my first tattoo,but i wanna know ...
  A: Laura, Regular clothing can be worn as soon as their is no scabbing left on the tattoo with no ...
tattoo3/27/2006
  Q: i have gotten my 1st tattoo 3 days ago and it is beginning to flake off. what scares me is that the ...
  A: First and foremost you should NEVER use a Triple Anti-Biotic Ointment on a tattoo for any reason. In ...
Tattoo allergy- time lapse?3/27/2006
  Q: I 'recently' got a tattoo and it has since been healed for quite some time. It looked great and ...
  A: Kelsey, Chances are that you are not having an allergic reaction. You probably have some scar ...
tattoo color loss3/22/2006
  Q: I HAD AN ALLERGIC REACTION TO AN OINTMENT I WAS PUTTING ON A TATTOO CAUSING LITTLE PIMPLE LIKE BUMPS ...
  A: Rob, If there was a noticable amount of color loss then you will have to have it recolored. The ...
tattoo placement3/22/2006
  Q: I want to get an outlined and lightly shaded picture of my car long ways on my inner bicep. How will ...
  A: RJ, A skilled and qualified professional can lay in the design with minimal distortion. You will ...
pimples after tattoo3/22/2006
  Q: I have read alot of people asking why they got pimples after being tattooed and they all seem to ...
  A: Lora, You really should never use any sort of lotion on a tattoo as they dull and draw out the ...
tattooing vitiligo on hands3/22/2006
  Q: and if so is the colors used close to actual skin color, i have light-medium colored skin. thanks
  A: Ryan, Consult a cosmetic or micropigment implantation technician in your area. This is a common ...
Allergic reaction to A+D ointment tattoo3/22/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo several days ago. I think I used A+D ointment too long or my skin is allergic because ...
  A: Jermaine, You did have an allergic reaction to the A&D ointment. It happens. The best thing you can ...
tattoo problem ( colour is fading )3/21/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo (only black) 3 months ago. The first time I went, the tattoo was not dark enough (not ...
  A: David, You did fine on your spelling from what I see you only mis-spelled two words. It sounds to ...
waxing before tattoo3/21/2006
  Q: i will be getting a tattoo next week. it will be below my belly across my hip. is it ok if i wax the ...
  A: Amree, Shaving the area one time should not cause you to have a thick growth of hair. Waxing is ...
Tattooing, past and present3/19/2006
  Q: Gypsy, Im doing a research paper in my college english class comparing and contrasting how ...
  A: Drew, Most of your questions can be answered by visiting both of my websites at ...
Possible Tattoo Problem a dull ache?3/19/2006
  Q: Ive had my tattoo now for about 5 years only a small thing 1" by 4" and never had any problems. Only ...
  A: Shaun, There are two answers to your question, one is simple however the other one is not so simple ...
Rose Tattoo3/19/2006
  Q: I wanted to know what my rose tattoo meant...and how much you thought would it cost i have my own ...
  A: Petra, I looked at the photo and there really is no special meaning behind the tattoo except what ...
guns n roses appetite celtic cross3/17/2006
  Q: I really want the apetite for destruction celtic cross on my lower right arm (like axl) but i'm ...
  A: Lee, You should always follow your gut instincts. You would be absolutely amazed at how much ...
Tattoo Reaction3/15/2006
  Q: I have had 3 tattoos with 3 different artists. All 3 times, about a week later, I started getting ...
  A: Cynthia, You are having an allergic reaction to the healing ointments you are using. Chances are ...
Tatoo reaction?3/15/2006
  Q: I got a small tat on my ankle; red and black 10 days ago. The red area is really raised and scabby ...
  A: Kelly, You are suffering from a common condition known as "Heavy Handed Artist" The ankle is a ...
Tattoos3/15/2006
  Q: I got an all black tribal ankle bracelet 9 years ago as my wedding band. For the past 2 weeks or ...
  A: Penney, More than likely you are rejecting the tattoo. Anything from the wrist down is a high wear ...
Cover Up Tatto3/14/2006
  Q: I have a 8-year old, home-made tattoo(with black red and small amount of green ink), about 4 inches ...
  A: Taryn, There is no such thing as a flesh colored pigment that will cover old tattoos. Tattoo ...
Tatto meaning3/13/2006
  Q: What is the meaning of the sun/moon tattoo? I found a picture of a sun/moon tattoo that I like but ...
  A: Rhonda, Have you ever heard the expression; AS DIFFERENT AS DAY AND NIGHT? The sun and moon tattoo ...
Belly button piercing3/10/2006
  Q: I had my belly button pierced about 8 months ago and it got ripped out becuase it was pierced too ...
  A: Miranda, An initial navel piercing should always be done with a 316 LVN Surgical Grade Stainless ...
Meaning of an Earth tattoo3/9/2006
  Q: I was just met a girl with a cool Earth tattoo on her left shoulder blade, and when I told one of my ...
  A: Alan, It sounds like your buddies are yanking your chain. To my knowledge there is no significance ...
Meaning of tattoo3/8/2006
  Q: I saw this tattoo that i really want but i don't know the meaning... could you help me out? Is a ...
  A: Yidelka, I beleive I know the design you are talking about. It is another symbol for a broken ...
tattoo and stretch marks3/7/2006
  Q: ok, basically, i have stretch marks covering a large area of my lower back, from one side to the ...
  A: Kat, I'll answer your last question first.... Brian Everett, Route 66 Tattoo, Albuquerque, NM. It ...
Tattoo color3/6/2006
  Q: I got my tattoo about a month ago. It is on the back of my forearm. I applied A&D to it about 3 ...
  A: Tim, Overuse of A&D ointment WILL draw the color out of a tattoo. You definately overused the A&D ...
Red ink reaction?2/28/2006
  Q: I got my second tattoo Feb. 24 06 and it has red ink in it I noticed a day or so later that it is ...
  A: Danimal, You are having an allergic reaction to whatever the original ointment is you were using. ...
Pussing tats2/28/2006
  Q: We just went and got tattoos together. The same guy did it right after another. Nichole's tattoo is ...
  A: Nichole $ Priya, Not wanting to freak you out any further than you already are but it sounds to me ...
Cincinnati Scar Experience2/27/2006
  Q: I have skin grafts that are 20 years old on my left shoulder and forearm, and would like to ...
  A: Jennifer, Not sure of the name of the studio he owns but there is an artist in Youngstown that I ...
Tattoo Aftercare2/27/2006
  Q: I've seen many recommendations to use A&D ointment on a healing tattoo, but big no-nos for vaseline. ...
  A: Kelly, The difference between Vaseline and A&D is that Vaseline is PURE petroleum jelly A&D only ...
tattoo outline fading2/26/2006
  Q: I got my tattoo 11 days ago and i noticed some of my outline is eather gone or the color has ran ...
  A: Laci, Unfortunately it sounds like you went to a tattooist that did not know what they were doing. ...
African Americans and Tattoos2/26/2006
  Q: I am an AA and want a tattoo. i am worried that the color may not show good since i am medium brown. ...
  A: Kemmyj, First off let me congratulate you for thinking this through. Lets deal with the keloid ...
Tattoo placement2/26/2006
  Q: I have one more question. I am only 16 and I am really anxious to get a tattoo. My mom is willing to ...
  A: Kaytie, You will probably not like my answer to this question but please consider what I am going ...
black dots2/26/2006
  Q: this is my first tattoo and its a lower back peice its a red flower with shaded yellow and when i ...
  A: Renee, Without actually seeing the tattoo it would be hard for me to tell you what the spots are. ...
Lip Tattoo2/25/2006
  Q: I want to get a tattoo on my lip, but I hear it often fades and will never last.Is this totally true ...
  A: Tyler, Lips are tricky and the tattoo will fade in time due to the acids in the mouth. Plus be ...
Tattoo placement2/24/2006
  Q: I have several tattoos in mind that i want to get and where i want to get them. i'm looking to get ...
  A: Kaytie, The 3 areas that most women get their first tattoo is the back shoulder, ankle or lower ...
lip tattoo2/24/2006
  Q: I would like to get a tattoo on the inside of my bottom lip. My concerns are....picking an artist ...
  A: Jen, Psoriasis is definately a problem and one that I advise anyone with it to not get tattooed. ...
severed2/24/2006
  Q: maybe i should specify exactly what im talking about for example there are various tattoos done in ...
  A: Bob, Have you ever had a woman do you wrong and rip your heart out? Ever have one use you, abuse ...
severed2/23/2006
  Q: what do severed body parts and decapitated heads (mostly women) represent in traditional tattoos? I ...
  A: Bob, True traditional tattoos do not deal with that type of subject matter. I started out as a ...
ink problems2/23/2006
  Q: i have a new tat that was done with a home made gun and the ink is falling out is it cause the ink ...
  A: Ashley, The problem is the "INK", the person that put your life in danger and the "GUN." Tattooing ...
Treatment for allergic reaction?2/22/2006
  Q: I received a "refurbishment" of an old tattoo 10 days ago. I also had the artist add a bit of new. ...
  A: Tonya, I do not beleive that you are having an allergic reaction to the pigment. The yellow roses ...
allergy2/22/2006
  Q: After several visits to have work done on a sleve I started getting very itchy especially when I was ...
  A: Sharon, An allergic reaction to pigment can occur at anytime. You said that you, "started getting ...
Tattoo re-do2/22/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo a while ago on my lower back. It is a little celtic know (maybe 1-2 inches across & ...
  A: Lesley, Keep in mind that that in order to cover one design with another there must be a lot of ...
Tats in Oklahoma2/21/2006
  Q: I have a couple of tats and live in Oklahoma. I am thinking of getting another. My question is: Is ...
  A: Mongo, TATTOOING IS NOT LEGAL IN OKLAHOMA! This subject strikes a raw nerve with me. The people ...
nose piercings2/21/2006
  Q: i was wondering if you could please give me some info on nose piercings. such as how they are done? ...
  A: Em, The first three things I am going to tell you are the most important: 1. Do not let anyone do ...
Sparrow Tattoos2/20/2006
  Q: I am wondering about the sparrow as a tattoo. Does the wing or body postion have any certain ...
  A: Nicky, Historically the "Sparrow" or "Swallow" tattoo is a symbol of everlasting love and devotion. ...
Tattoo Placement2/20/2006
  Q: What would be the meaning for a man (age late 20's but seems much older) to have a tattoo over the ...
  A: Elsie, Without knowing this person or their lifestyle I really can't say what the meaning is. ...
Spotted & weeping tattoo2/20/2006
  Q: I just got a tattoo on the top of my leg 3 days ago. After using bacitracian for 2 days, i started ...
  A: Stephanie, It sounds to me like you have simply had an allergic reaction to the ointment you were ...
Requirments2/19/2006
  Q: I am an espiring tatto artist and I can copy other drawings really well, I can also change them to ...
  A: Taylo, Tattooing is not a "Learn on Your Own" profession. If you are serious about tattooing what ...
Tattooing on genitalia2/19/2006
  Q: My wife and I recently saw a tattoo online on a butterfly tattooed on a woman's genitalia, the wings ...
  A: Nic and Bronwyn, It is a very tender and sensitive area. I have discovered, strangely enough, that ...
skin stretching2/18/2006
  Q: my partner is thinking of getting a 2nd tattoo however, he can't seem to get anyone to tell him ...
  A: Ella, The skin is elastic and streaches unfortunatly it does not go back to shape when the mass is ...
Tattoo aftercare2/18/2006
  Q: I am getting a tatto on Feb. 28, but I am going on vacation on March 12, will I be able to go ...
  A: Grace, The rule is to give a new tattoo 7 to 10 days to heal before swimming. It sounds like you ...
Raised, 'cracked' tattoo2/18/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo a couple days ago and would like some advice. The tattoo feels raised and appears to ...
  A: James, My immediate advice to you is do not return to that studio. You have been the victim of ...
progression2/15/2006
  Q: hi im a english tattooist and have served an apprenticeship with a award winning established artist ...
  A: Richie, I would suggest that you visit http://www.sekpress.net It is a site dedicated to ...
Tattoo HELP2/15/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo feb 7.. a small zodiac symbol on my hip bone.. but.. i have been using tattoo goo.. ...
  A: Amy, The first thing you should do is take that tin of Tattoo Goo go out to your local lake and see ...
Tattoo Aftercare2/15/2006
  Q: Hey, I got my tattoo done last nite. I forgot to ask about the aftercare... Ummm i was told ...
  A: Kelly, You've been a victim of a very unprofessional individual. Not only should she have verbally ...
itchy tattoo2/14/2006
  Q: I got a black tatto on the inside of my ankle about a year and a half ago, about 3 months ago i got ...
  A: Jenny, You are probably looking at 2 things here. First the pigment that was used on you probably ...
what it takes2/14/2006
  Q: I need to know what it takes to be a tattoo artist. I want to be one but i am unsure of what ...
  A: Brittany, Tattooing is not a "Learn on Your Own" profession. If you are serious about tattooing ...
tattoo reaction2/13/2006
  Q: my tattoo is two weeks old at first it was swollen to the point it was red and prple around some ...
  A: Heather, Without actually seeing the tattoo it will be diffulcult for me to give you a definative ...
recommendation2/12/2006
  Q: i am in the daytona beach florida area and have 3 tattoos but the person i usually go to has left ...
  A: Coey, To be truthful I am not that familiar with studios in Florida. You may have to do some ...
chinese symbols2/12/2006
  Q: I am going to be getting my second tattoo soon and I want to get my husbands name in a chinese ...
  A: Kayla, The reason why you cannot find a CHINESE translation of your husbands name is because there ...
Weird reaction after tattoo2/12/2006
  Q: I got a new tattoo about 5 weeks ago. After the 1st week I noticed a couple of little bumps inside ...
  A: Flutter, In the case of your condition the skin can be "RIPPED" while the tattoo process is taking ...
Weird reaction after tattoo2/11/2006
  Q: I got a new tattoo about 5 weeks ago. After the 1st week I noticed a couple of little bumps inside ...
  A: Flutter, You can develop a reaction to A&D at anytime. It occurs with changes in your body ...
Weird reaction after tattoo2/9/2006
  Q: I got a new tattoo about 5 weeks ago. After the 1st week I noticed a couple of little bumps inside ...
  A: Flutter, You did have a reaction to the A&D Ointment. It happens but now you will have to use a ...
tattoo meaning2/9/2006
  Q: Is there a meaning to the start tattoo that has the lines coming from each point to the middle. Alot ...
  A: Lakey, I think you meant STAR tattoo and it does have a meaning. The Nautical star tattoo is one of ...
lower back tattoo2/9/2006
  Q: I am considering getting a lower back tattoo (my first tattoo) and wondered if clothing rubbing on ...
  A: M.B., I am sorry that you felt that my "Clarity" deserved only a rating of five for trying to send ...
Raised, Red, Sometimes Itchy Newer Tattoo2/8/2006
  Q: About a week and a half ago I had some color added to the outline of my half-sleeve. Under my arm ...
  A: Kelly, Though rare you can have a reaction to ANY pigment not just red. Without visably seeing the ...
Fingernails2/7/2006
  Q: I would like to systematically file down my fingernails and have letters tattooed on my fingernail ...
  A: Michael, The finger nail bed is made up of millions of little nerve endings and the pain factor ...
healing process of tattoo2/7/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo on my forearm 11 days ago, and most of it is healing fine. It's only a black outline ...
  A: Vanessa, If that area of the tattoo was worked as much as you indicated then heavy flaking is ...
aproach to artists2/6/2006
  Q: so < If I have this right its gonna take hard work artistic abiltys and money two of wich I have. I ...
  A: Michael, To become a better artist you have to become a more intelligent person. The is no ...
bumps on inner arm portion of tattoo2/6/2006
  Q: I have a tattoo of my black belt wrapped around my arm. I had it done a little over 2 years ago and ...
  A: Nick, You are probably looking at 2 things here. First the pigment that was used on you probably ...
Tattoo of my child2/6/2006
  Q: I am considering a new tattoo (only my 2nd) and want to have it be the image of my daughter. Do I ...
  A: Bob, A portrait of your child is probably one of the finest tributes that a parent can pay to their ...
Keloids2/6/2006
  Q: I've got keloid prone skin and 3 outta 4 of my ear piercings are infected and i got em cured by a ...
  A: Prem, The simple answer to this is that if you are prone to keloid scarring then it will happen ...
raised, flaking tattoo2/5/2006
  Q: my tattoo is about 2 weeks old and it has finished the scabbing and peeling process. however, there ...
  A: Alex, You may be having a reaction to the color Red. Red reactions are rare but more frequent than ...
dotty tattoo2/4/2006
  Q: i got a tattoo of 3 chinese characters on my lower back 3 weeks ago. now my consern is that ive had ...
  A: Candy, I have absolutely no idea why your tattooist would tell you to put petroleum jelly on your ...
Tattoo spots!2/4/2006
  Q: I got my second tattoo about 14 days ago. I followed all of the aftercare instructions and ...
  A: Rob, It sounds like your tattooist may have gone too deep and at an angle with the needle. You can ...
Itchy Tat2/2/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo back in September and the healing when fine. Now I noticed this week that part of ...
  A: Jan, It could be any number of things. The pigment may have had impurites in it. Your body may be ...
tattoo chinese for dad2/2/2006
  Q: my dad has cancer so i want a tat saying dad in chinese iv had many various how do i know which is ...
  A: Nadia, If you want to find what you are looking for there are several ways to do it. You can either ...
pen safety.2/1/2006
  Q: . please recommend a type of pen i can use thats safe and affective to draw on skin for freehand ...
  A: Simon, I have used a "Sharpie" marker for years because of it's alcohol base. You can also use ...
Red, Itchy and Raw1/30/2006
  Q: I got work done about 14 days ago, which covers about half my forearm and it is still fairly itchy ...
  A: Adrian, From what you are describing it sounds as if you are the victum of a severly over worked ...
Pimples on tattoo1/29/2006
  Q: I was tattooed on 1/13 at my home town tattoo parlor. Everything went wonderful till my fourth day ...
  A: Christina, Why your tattooist told you to use Aquaphor or lubriderm on your tattoo is beyond me ...
Tattoo Discoloration1/28/2006
  Q: I have read all your posts about allergies to colors but mine seems different than those. I got my ...
  A: Rosie, It sounds to me like your artist went to deep and at an angle with the needle which can ...
apprenticeship1/26/2006
  Q: So when I am looking for an apprenticeship what all should I bring? I imagine that some copies of ...
  A: John, A nice professionally put together portfolio is a huge help. Also a resume and business card ...
apprenticeship1/26/2006
  Q: I am wondering just how to go about getting into an apprenticeship at a tatoo shop. I have been ...
  A: John, Tattooing is not a "Learn on Your Own" profession. If you are serious about tattooing what ...
Tattoos1/25/2006
  Q: I have a friend who wants a tattoo. In the past she has had trouble with metal allergies when having ...
  A: Raven, The only way to tell is with a test. Have your friend go to an artist in your area and visit ...
straight lines...1/24/2006
  Q: allo... i've a couple of tattoo's... one usin regular machine, the otha usin bamboo... i'm wantin ...
  A: Dav, Straight lines and circles are the hardest thing in tattooing to render properly. My advise is ...
Tattooing at bike rallys1/23/2006
  Q: I have questions in regard to tattooing at bike rallys. I have been asked to open up a tattoo booth ...
  A: Garry, Please do not contact me again regarding this subject. As I stated in my original response ...
Tattoos and problems with them1/23/2006
  Q: I just got a new tattoo that is approx. 3/4 " by 3/4 " directly to the left of the genital area, in ...
  A: Marie, The only thing you will have to be concerned with is damage to the tattoo from the skin ...
I used wrong lotion1/22/2006
  Q: I just got a tattoo on my lowerside of my wrist about 6 days ago and after using the proper type of ...
  A: David, You should not be using any lotions whatsoever. They can clog and damage the tattoo. Please ...
Small bumps on 2 yr old tattoo1/21/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo on the outside of my left forearm about 2 years ago. It all of a sudden has small ...
  A: James, Your body is rejecting an impurity that was in the black pigment that was used on you. It's ...
pigskin source1/20/2006
  Q: i am going through a semi- apprenticeship and been practicing on fruit, soon will have alot of ...
  A: Kyle, Tattooing on fruit is an archaic method of learning that went out of practice 20 years ago. ...
tattoo1/19/2006
  Q: i always wanted a tattoo but i'm scared that hurt bad like on my lower back but i don't know what i ...
  A: Veronica, Based on what you said I would have to state that you are not ready for a tattoo. You ...
Tatoo texture1/19/2006
  Q: I am planning to get a tatoo and i have two recomended artist to pick from. Both have a lot of ...
  A: Natalia, Get your tattoo done by the one that does not leave a "Texture." Tattoos should never have ...
tattoo significance1/16/2006
  Q: My cousin recently got a slash mark on the outside corner of each eye (they are small) - is there ...
  A: Kara, Slash marks or tear drops around the eyes will generally mean time served in prison or ...
semie-permenant tattoos1/15/2006
  Q: i want to get a tattoo done soon but i was thinking about gettiong a semie permenant tattoo dont ...
  A: Andrew, There is no such thing as a semi-permenant tattoo. The are temp. tattoos that are like ...
Removable tattoos1/14/2006
  Q: If I didn't want a pemenant tattoo could i just go to a tattoo parlor pick a design, have that put ...
  A: Terry, Tattoos done in a TATTOO STUDIO are permenant. If you want a temp tattoo to try it out most ...
Apprenticeship catch-221/13/2006
  Q: Gypsy, Ive been a "scratcher" for a few months now. Im not a typical "scratcher" Ive been Red Cross ...
  A: Unsure apprentice, You have already answered your own question.... If you would not allow the guy ...
another finger question1/13/2006
  Q: my last question was the finger quotes which im going to have priced this afternoon despite the ...
  A: Abbaddon, Please be careful over what type of symbolic tattoo you get. A tear drop means different ...
Hard To walk????1/13/2006
  Q: Two days ago I got a tattoo on the top of my foot. It's very difficult to walk on it, It is all red ...
  A: Jennifer, You can never be too careful from a tattoo or piercing that becomes infected. I know of 2 ...
ITCHING!1/12/2006
  Q: .. thank you for taking time out of your day to answer some of these questions... and well mine ...
  A: Desirae, First off you should not be putting any sort of creme on your tattoo. Secondly, you should ...
Hard To walk????1/11/2006
  Q: Two days ago I got a tattoo on the top of my foot. It's very difficult to walk on it, It is all red ...
  A: Jennifer, Get to a medical facility immediately!!! Do not wait! You have a severe infection that ...
Quote tattoo on fingers1/11/2006
  Q: I plan to get a quote done on the inside of my fingers(including thumb)on my right hand, im right ...
  A: Abbaddon, The hand and fingers are the second most sensitive areas of the body. They are also the ...
First Tattoo1/10/2006
  Q: .. first off i would like to thank you for taking your time to answer these kind of questions... ...
  A: Melting, Thank you for the recognition. If you are uncomfortable with the person who did your ...
Uh Oh...1/10/2006
  Q: Hey, I was once a volunteer for allexperts.com for The Rolling Stones. I love the Stones, and got ...
  A: Robert, The REAL DEAL is that as long as it's been at least 6 months since you pulled off the scab ...
Fainting1/9/2006
  Q: Im almost 17 and when i got my tongue and belly button peirced, i almost fainted and i had to get a ...
  A: Katie, Hi, the person that pierced your tongue probably did not tell you this but to do a sexual ...
itchy bumps on tattoo1/8/2006
  Q: I just recieved my 3rd tattoo its my family crest on my lower back a week and a half ago.. and ive ...
  A: Nicky, Your artist was correct in telling you to stop using the A&D ointment. You have had an ...
concerned1/6/2006
  Q: ,and part if it is raised,, my tat is purple black and red and all of the purple parts of my tat is ...
  A: Dashofsuga27, You may be having an extremely rare reaction to the color purple. Red reactions are ...
tattoo apprentice ships1/4/2006
  Q: I can't seem to get an apprenticeship even after going to studios and being persistent. I have a ...
  A: I get questions like yours all the time and there is no substitute for a formal apprenticeship. It ...
red ink allergy?1/4/2006
  Q: I got a tattoo on the back of my neck 9 days ago. I was told that it would probably itch quite a ...
  A: Becky, Witout seeing the tattoo it would be diffulcult for me to tell you what is happening with ...
Tattoo over stretch mark1/3/2006
  Q: How difficult is it to cover up a stretch mark? I had a baby 4 years ago and I have this one ugly ...
  A: Carol, Streach marks are a type of scar and yes, scars can be covered but it is a diffulcult and ...
navel piercing12/31/2005
  Q: I would love to get my bellybutton pierced (probably will in future). However, I'm afraid of ...
  A: Kelley, If you go to a skilled qualified piercer who has training and knows what they are doing ...
symbol of freedom12/27/2005
  Q: I am wanting to get a tattoo symbolizing the freedom of my life and my choices. what would be some ...
  A: Maverick, A symbol of freedom and your personal choices are something that no one can help you find ...
3 weeks old tattoo-still very painful12/20/2005
  Q: I got my first colored(red)tattoo on my ankle 3 weeks ago and it still hurts. It's hot to touch and ...
  A: Kathleen, I tried to send this immediately to you yesterday, however, ALLEXPERTS was down and I ...
Making your own ink12/18/2005
  Q: My sons friend made some ink out of a plastic Cd case & some soap? I was wondering if you have ever ...
  A: Terri, Your sons friend is a fool and is putting his life and anyone elses life who is foolish ...
tattoo12/8/2005
  Q: I have a tattoo of my fraternity letters on my right calf and I either want to get it removed or ...
  A: Eric, First off let me apologise for taking a few days to get back to you, I was out of town on an ...
High quality ink, but only reacting in a certain spot?12/7/2005
  Q: I was told specifically by my former artist to practice on myself, so this isn't just me scratching ...
  A: Heather, Here's the bottom line.... I originally answered your question with the "I DON'T DO ...
High quality ink, but only reacting in a certain spot?12/6/2005
  Q: I'm learning to tattoo right now, and as such I've been practicing on myself a lot. I'm right handed ...
  A: Heather, You are using a poor grade of pigments and your body isrejecting it. Tattooing is not a ...
Tatooing on scars11/30/2005
  Q: Decades later, I am no longer embarrassed about them and have even toyed with the idea of ...
  A: Tikki, You wrote to the right person with this question. I am the one that developed the technic ...
Old school bird tattoo meaning11/26/2005
  Q: Very often you see tattooed old school birds, usually swallows, in hc-groups. Sometimes there is ...
  A: Suvi, It is a Traditional Design with a long history. Swallows generally mean "Everlasting Love" ...
studio management11/23/2005
  Q: if possible could you tell me what fair pay-rates/percentages for artists and shop managers etc? ...
  A: Josh, The averages vary all over the United States from studio to studio. There is no standard ...
Eyebrow Tatooing and "Eyeliner"11/23/2005
  Q: I'm thinking about having this done but am a little frightened. How dangerous is it being tatooed ...
  A: Candace, First off. Please forgive the length of time that it took me to get back to you. For some ...
Star Tattoo11/22/2005
  Q: Can you please tell me what is the meaning of the multi star tattoo that many women have. R & B ...
  A: Eric, Honestly, there is no special meaning behind multi star tattoos. A lot of women choose this ...
lip piercing11/19/2005
  Q: i was wondering does a lip piercing (side bottom) usually hurt bad? and what are the risks/side ...
  A: Taryn, The lip is a tender area. The piercing is going to feel like a cross between biting your lip ...
Tattoos over stretchmarks11/18/2005
  Q: I've looked through the previous answers and couldn't find anything about tattooing over present ...
  A: Petal, Streach marks are a type of scarring and if you have read the info I have posted on scarring ...
tattoo on lower abdomen11/17/2005
  Q: i got a chinese symbol tattoo on my lower right abdomen. i wanted it where you wouldn't know it was ...
  A: Amy, Hate to tell you this but you will have to have it touched up. Wait about 1 year before ...
Allergic Reaction?11/13/2005
  Q: I got my 11th tattoo a month ago. It has itched more then my past ones, and there are itchy bumps ...
  A: Angela, Whatever ointment you are using for healing discontinue use of it immediately! Without ...
tattoo over raised keloid surgical scar11/11/2005
  Q: can you put a tattoo over a raised surgical scar? can you get it to blend in or will the raised part ...
  A: Chrissy, You wrote to the right person with this question. I am the one that developed the technic ...
Tattoo's Before Pregnancy10/30/2005
  Q: I've recently heard that many girls who have tattoo's on their backs, especially ones on the lower ...
  A: Kelsey, First off let me apologize that it took me a couple of days to get back to you. I had to be ...
Approximate costs, etc.10/27/2005
  Q: I just have a few general questions for you. Thanks for taking the time to read this. :) 1) I'm ...
  A: Whitney, Below are the answers to your questions in the order in which you asked them: 1. It is ...
tatooing over scars10/27/2005
  Q: He is also wondering about scarification over his scars..? He said he's seen some nice scars with ...
  A: Sara, The scar tissue should heal fine as long as he visits a skilled artist that uses the technics ...
Tattoo Healing Colors bleeding together10/25/2005
  Q: I got my 5th tattoo 10 days ago. On the 7th day it rained here and my pants got soaked and really ...
  A: Chris, First off I just want to tell you when I lived in Abilene, TX. I once had a good friend from ...
tatooing over scars10/24/2005
  Q: My friend has extensive scarring from a suicide attempt that was repaired with lots of stitches.. it ...
  A: Sara, You wrote to the right person with this question. I am the one that developed the technic for ...
CHINESE SYMBOL10/24/2005
  Q: MY SISTER JUST GOT THIS TATTOO AND WANTS ME TO GET THE SAME ONE. WE'RE BEST FRIENDS AND I'M THINKING ...
  A: Karen, I am going to suggest to you that you do what I would do to locate the meaning of a "KANJI" ...
tattoos and pregnancy10/23/2005
  Q: I want to get a tattoo a little below the belt line per say and was wondering if it would stretch or ...
  A: Lori, There is always the possibility that the tattoo may be affected if you are prone to stretch ...
Raised tattoo10/15/2005
  Q: I had an add-on to an existing tattoo on my lower back and the new part is raised a bit. I had it ...
  A: Betsy, It sounds like you may have been scarred and if so you will have to wait at least one year ...
meaning of spider & webs tattoos10/12/2005
  Q: what would be the meaning of spiders and the web? To me it means independence and leader but what ...
  A: Jay, There is really no special meaning behind spider or web tattoos beyond what you attach to it ...
Tatto allergy10/11/2005
  Q: I have developed an extreme allergy from getting a tattoo on my arm. The tattoo is on my upper arm. ...
  A: Kerry, First off please discontinue use of all creames, lotions and ointments immediately. You are ...
traditional tattooing10/11/2005
  Q: I have designed my own tattoo. It is a simple monochromatic bird design, but has significant ...
  A: Emily, Sacred Tattoo 276 Canal Street, New York, NY 10013 (212) 226-4286 and they should be able to ...
coloring10/9/2005
  Q: I end up with holes after coloring a tattoo?
  A: John, You are doing it wrong. I would strongly recommend that you seek out an apprenticeship and ...
white sometimes itchy bumps on my inner arm tattoo10/8/2005
  Q: I got my first tattoo about 4 months ago and while its totally healed (people told me it actually ...
  A: Aly, There is a chance that it could be the red pigment or your artist doesn't understand that the ...
tattoo "fix up"10/8/2005
  Q: i got a tattoo about a year ago that i no longer like. fortunatly it can be fixed up and can be ...
  A: Tom, For the most part, to cover over a darker tattoo you need a lot of detail and a lot of ...
Tattoos10/7/2005
  Q: If I want a tattoo on my back of a picture that I have with mountains, trees and a lake can I simply ...
  A: Matt, Any skilled, professional ARTIST can render any design for you. MOST people in this business ...
Tattoo resources10/6/2005
  Q: I am in the process of getting a full back piece and needed some information on an expert studio ...
  A: Christy, Any skilled professional ARTIST can draw up any design you want and tattoo it for you as ...
How to help a red, overworked tattoo?10/6/2005
  Q: I am quite concerned about my tattoo. A month ago, I got some graywork shading done on a tattoo. ...
  A: Nate, Unfortunately it does sound like you got hammered, expect scarring to occur. There is an old ...
new tattoo acne10/4/2005
  Q: I got a tattoo on my back recently, it's healing well, I've been getting light acne around and on my ...
  A: Terry, Unless you have had a previous acne problem that is probably not what is going on. If you ...
tattoo10/3/2005
  Q: What does the tattoo of a dragon and tiger symbolize?
  A: Mike, It is much like the symbolizm of the Ying & Yang. Two opposing forces at odds with each other ...
healing of a tattoo9/30/2005
  Q: I got my tattoo done about 3 months ago. I have three roses and my name with green vines. My roses ...
  A: Glenda, It sounds to me like you have experienced a rare condition called "Red Reaction." Basically ...
tattoo myths9/30/2005
  Q: what are the long term risk involve in getting a tattoo? for example, the myth one can not get ...
  A: Jessica, There really is no long term medical problems with getting a tattoo unless you go to a ...
Keloids9/27/2005
  Q: I got my rook pierced about a month and a half ago and i am getting keloids on the top and bottom ...
  A: Jenna, I am sorry that you were treated rudely. Unfortunately those people that are only out for ...
Keloids9/26/2005
  Q: I got my rook pierced about a month and a half ago and i am getting keloids on the top and bottom ...
  A: Jenna, The cartlidge has a lot to do with it but there may be other underlying problems, these ...
Covering up black arm band9/24/2005
  Q: You answered some questions on cover ups, but not exactly what can be done with black work. I'd like ...
  A: Troy, The first thing I'm going to tell you to do is visit my website at www.ubtat2d.com - Go to my ...
tattoo removal9/22/2005
  Q: I am thinking about having a recent tattoo removed. Do you know anything about tattoo removal ...
  A: Karen, STOP! DO NOT USE TATTOO REMOVAL CREAMS!! THEY ARE VERY DANGEROUS!!! Tattoo removal creams ...
Irezumi9/21/2005
  Q: and thank you for taking the time to answer my question. I love irezumi and would like a serious ...
  A: Nic, Most of the Irezumi artists that I know are out on the west coast. I am going to refer you to ...
Distortion9/20/2005
  Q: My question is about distortion. My tattoo is on my wrist. Does this area can be affected from ...
  A: Nahum, Yes it can. Also be aware that the wrist is a high wear area and that will also have an ...
Tattoo9/18/2005
  Q: I've just got a new tattoo. Is it true that sometimes there's a need to redraw the tattoo after the ...
  A: Nahum, If you have gone to a qualified, licensed artist then your tattoo is done right the first ...
Tattooing9/15/2005
  Q: I was just wondering if you could tell me if it is possible to use a topical anesthetic cream before ...
  A: Janice, My husband is gone to a bike rally. I am his wife, Debbie. I can tell you that it is not a ...
Raised tattoo, and sometimes itchy too9/14/2005
  Q: I had a full back piece done about a year and a half ago. It's all vines and flowers, with some ...
  A: Kiki, There are several things that may cause a raised tattoo; impurities in the pigment, allergic ...
Tattoo9/12/2005
  Q: I am interested in getting a tattoo and have several questions and apologize if they've been asked ...
  A: Melanie, Here are the answers to your questions;Why is the cost of getting a tattoo so high? (There ...
tattoo price range9/10/2005
  Q: i am trying to get a tattoo of an iron cross with a rebel flag in the center the words forged in ...
  A: Dustin, Wow! That sounds like a big tattoo! My husband, The GYPSY, is gone to Iowa to a bike rally. ...
Tattoo placement/ meaning9/7/2005
  Q: Can you tell me if there is different meaning on butterfly tattoos? And what would be the best to ...
  A: Melanie, There is no significance or difference between butterfly tattoos. Also, where ever you ...
3-5 year tattoos8/21/2005
  Q: um a) is there such a thing as 3-5 year tats because I have seen them advertised in a local studio a ...
  A: Charli, Yes it is a hoax and a scam! Tattoos are permanent! Nothing is forever except diamonds, ...
Cover Up Tattoo8/18/2005
  Q: I have two tattoos... they are Winnie the Pooh on right ankle... about 1.75 or 2 inches tall and 2 ...
  A: Erin, Here is the good news for you.... Any tattoo can be covered by a skilled artist with any ...
tattoo and pregnancy8/18/2005
  Q: I was told that during pregnancy some doctors will not give spinal meds or epidurals during delivery ...
  A: Natalie, Yes, it's true. Some Doctors beleive that the pigment that is in the skin may be pushed ...
tattoo meaning & danger?7/27/2005
  Q: Hey, firstly is tehre a meaning to star tattoos? i see a lot of people with the but am unable find a ...
  A: Katie, The most common meaning of a star tattoo is as a Nautical symbol. It represents the North ...
My tattoo has a red itchy bump...7/23/2005
  Q: I got a tattoo one week ago (it is my second one) and now there is a red, itchy bump. I don't know ...
  A: Angelena, It sounds like an allergic reaction to either the ointment you are using or a red ...
tattoos and pregnancy7/22/2005
  Q: Hi my name is Andrea and I was just wondering if having a tattoo on your lower back would enable ...
  A: Andrea, It is best to wait until after you have given birth to your baby before you get a tattoo. ...
Tattoo over scar due to surgical procedure7/18/2005
  Q: About four years ago I has a scolosis surgery. The scar runs about 5 inches past my neck down maybe ...
  A: Jessica, Since the scar is the age it is you should have no problem with a cover-up. A skilled ...
Tattoo7/10/2005
  Q: This question may sound a bit strange - hopefully you can answer it.... About a year ago, I got a ...
  A: Sam, The thing about moles is that they should never be tattooed over even after removal. It is ...
The meaning of a tattoo7/1/2005
  Q: What is the meaning of dog print tattoos on a female's lower tummy? Is there any special ...
  A: Karl, There is no special meaning in either the design or it's placement. It is simply a artistic ...
General information5/30/2005
  Q: I'm writing an assignment on getting a tattoo and would appreciate the following questions answered. ...
  A: Heida, The answers to all your questions can be found by visiting the faq page on my website at ...
Tattoo disfiguration5/26/2005
  Q: Yes, I am wanting to get a tattoo or two and I have always been curious about my tattoos stretching ...
  A: Matt, My advice to you, if you are planning on dropping a large amount of weight, would be to wait ...
Tattoo placement5/24/2005
  Q: My husband and I want matching tats for our 15th anniv. Is there a proper place to put them for ...
  A: Janalyn, Wherever you wish to put them for the proper meaning for you is the correct placement. ...
Bumpy Itchy Tattoo5/20/2005
  Q: My black and shaded anklet tattoo was done one month ago but had now started to itch. There was a ...
  A: Sugi, Yes, it sounds like you definitely had an allergic reaction. I'm not sure what you used but I ...
school paper5/19/2005
  Q: hey im doing a school paper on what carrier i wan to go into after high school. the carier i have ...
  A: Jessicka, First of all, it's career, not carrier :) Go to my website for helpful information for ...
2nd degree burn tattoo5/18/2005
  Q: i have a tattoo that has keloid and i am getting it removed but i want to retattoo the area with ...
  A: Kelly, Most scar tissue can be tattooed after it has healed for at least 1 year. However, if you ...
copyright of tattoos5/18/2005
  Q: i was just wondering if i wanted to get a tattoo of a little billabong or roxy symbol if that would ...
  A: Bridie, They are both copyrighted symbols. However, if you go to a studio who pays thier royalties ...
Raised, swollen tattoo5/17/2005
  Q: I've had tattoos for about a year now, and they have started to raise up, and haven't gone down, ive ...
  A: Andrew, It sounds to me like you have been scarred and that the pigment is in deeper than it should ...
Inflammation5/17/2005
  Q: I have had two slightly prolapsed discs in my lower back for over 2 yrs which causes a fair bit of ...
  A: Sable, The best advise that I can give you is that if you have any reservations at all no matter ...
Fading5/13/2005
  Q: (2 questions) It's been about 2 weeks after i got my first tattoo and i can see little 2mm spots on ...
  A: Ryan, It sounds like you have what are called "Holidays" these are small areas where the artist ...
Raised Tattoo5/12/2005
  Q: Don't know if you can help, I have an all black tattoo done on the small of my back about 7 years ...
  A: Claire, Who ever told you that lied to you. Black does not have to be inserted any deeper than any ...
raised severly itchy tattoo5/8/2005
  Q: I had a tattoo done on my inner ankle area back in February '05...there is red and yellow in the ...
  A: Michelle, You are having what is known as a "Red Reaction" in other words you are allergic to red ...
color fading5/8/2005
  Q: i got a tattoo with deep red in it. after 4 days the red seems pink. why did it fade so fast and is ...
  A: Lauren, It could be one of a number of things causing this.... Use of a triple anti-biotic ...
wrists5/4/2005
  Q: Hey, just as of recently I've began to want to get my first tattoo. I'm thinking of putting ...
  A: Ferris, It is a tender area but most people can handle the discomfort. It is also a high wear area ...
black star tattoo5/3/2005
  Q: Do you know what a black star tattoo means?
  A: Jose, A black star has no meaning, except what a person chooses for it to mean. Usually a star is a ...
Meaning of Polynesian symbols4/24/2005
  Q: Can you help me finding out what my tattoo means, i have been searching the net for hours but cant ...
  A: Thomas, I can tell you that most Pacific Societies i.e; Polynesian, Malasysian and Tahitian beleive ...
hi mate I have just started...4/23/2005
  Q: hi mate I have just started tattooing and i am going to be working hopefuly in a couple of months i ...
  A: Pete, Tattooing is not a "Learn on Your Own" profession. If you are serious about tattooing what ...
Raised Tattoo & Discoloration4/21/2005
  Q: I got a tattoo 2 1/2 years ago between my shoulder blades. I noticed about 2 months ago that there ...
  A: Lin, As old as the tattoo is there could be any number of reasons for the change, these include but ...
Question about beginning tattooing4/18/2005
  Q: My husband and I are interested in becoming tattooists. What is the best way, outside of ...
  A: Linley & Chris, Tattooing is not a "Learn on Your Own" profession. If you are serious about ...
tattoo aftercare4/18/2005
  Q: My tattooist didn't say use cortaid, he said to use curel, i missunderstood the first time. On the ...
  A: Beth, I have been tattooing for over 29 years and the care instructions I gave you are what the ...
tattoo aftercare4/18/2005
  Q: I just got a new tattoo saturday. The tattoo is on my upper back so that when I wear a tank top ...
  A: Beth, I do not know where your tattooist got thier information for care instructions but they are ...
Swimming Pool / Arizona Tattoo4/18/2005
  Q: How long should one stay out of a swimming pool for after getting a tattoo? Is there a listing of ...
  A: David, Avoid hot tubs, clorine pools and lakes for the first 7 to 10 days after the tattoo is ...
Got my first tattoo. Serious Allergy4/8/2005
  Q: I will try to elaborate my case as i have been really tense about this whole deal and going through ...
  A: Haseeb, What has happened to you is that you have had an allergic reaction, severe, to the Vitamin ...
Tattoo I seen4/7/2005
  Q: What is A "Gonzo Fist"?
  A: Qball, Without being able to see a picture of what you are refering too it will be hard to answer ...
finding a suitable design4/5/2005
  Q: GYPSY, First I want to say that I'm a "tattcollector" and cudo's to you and your advice. It's ...
  A: Tony, First off let me apologise for taking so long to get back to you. My ISP has been down for ...
Neosporin4/4/2005
  Q: Wht does Neosporin remove ink from tattoos, and how can you tell if you are having an allergic ...
  A: Albert, First, let me apologize for getting back to you so late, my ISP has been down for a few ...
Allergic Reaction?4/3/2005
  Q: I was just wondering if I have an allergic reaction to the ink or something. I got a tattoo right ...
  A: Jodi, I apologize for not getting back to you sooner. Our ISP has been down for a few days. It just ...
lotions for tattoos3/28/2005
  Q: My tattplace uses the Curel minus any reported probs with fading!I was using an all organic and ...
  A: Mary Jo, As I stated, I personally use bag balm for any tattoo I myself get and have never had any ...
lotions for tattoos3/28/2005
  Q: Recently sent you a question about fading in new tattoos.I have spotty fading after a couple months ...
  A: Mary Jo, Neosporin or any triple anti-bacterial ointment are the worst things you can use on a ...
fading in new tattoos3/27/2005
  Q: I am 50.Began tatting at 48.am very fair skinned, do not go out in sun or tanning beds and take ...
  A: Mary Jo, Without being able to see the tattoos, read your care instructions you were given or know ...
Itchy tattoo3/27/2005
  Q: I had a tattoo done about three weeks ago. It is on the top of my foot and covers pretty much the ...
  A: Shar, It could be a combination of both or it could be a lower grade or contaminated pigment which ...
red bumps around tattoo.3/19/2005
  Q: I have a question... I got my first tattoo about a week ago on my lower back. My artist told me ...
  A: Lauren, You are having an allergic reaction to the lotion you are using. Discontinue use ...
Allergic Reaction to A&D Ointment?3/10/2005
  Q: I thought I should share you my situation about the tatoo on my lower back which i recently got. The ...
  A: Diana, Here is the simple answer to your question.... Stop using anything on it, including soap. It ...
Studio Recommendation3/9/2005
  Q: I have been considering getting a tattoo for quite a while now. I think I've finally decided the ...
  A: Amanda, The best way to find a studio is by referal and footwork. Ask around and see who people ...
Tattoo's vs. henna3/9/2005
  Q: Hey, question to throw out to you. I am considering getting a tatoo. However,the thought of it being ...
  A: Jen, The easy answer is.... A Tattoo is permanent, Henna isn't. So it depends on what you are ...
Tattoo meaning3/8/2005
  Q: What does the traditional dagger through the heart with the flowers mean?
  A: Galen, It is an old design depicting love lost then regained. The dagger through the heart is the ...
priceing3/4/2005
  Q: i wanted to know, is there a general, kind of guide to fair tattoo pricing?
  A: Schyler, It's all dependent on the area you are in and what type of competition you have. Keep your ...
Tattoo to cover 16" scar down my back3/3/2005
  Q: Gypsy, In 2003 and 1996, I've had an extensive back surgury and it has left me with a 16" with a ...
  A: Stacie, You wrote to the right person with this question. I am the one that developed the technic ...
meaning of tattoo3/1/2005
  Q: I just want to find out a meaning of tattoo were it has two masks one smile and another one is not ...
  A: Yelena, They are the theatrical masks of "Comedy & Tragedy". They date back to the time of ...
Tattoo meaning??2/28/2005
  Q: What's the tribal tattoo meaning? I'm looking forward mixing an iban flower with a tribal, and I ...
  A: Fiorella, There is no meaning for tribal unless you are talking about cultural tribal. Tribal ...
Ear Tattoo2/27/2005
  Q: I have been researching over the net for my 4th tattoo. Anyway in my travels as I searched under ...
  A: Lotus, The ear is a tender area and over time a tattoo on the ear will have a tendency to spread ...
tattoo allergy2/26/2005
  Q: i have a tribal arm band ..with a chinese word written in red..on the inside of the arm..i had a ...
  A: Jerry, You may not be allergic to the pigment, you may have had an allergic reaction to the ...
Little white itchy bumps2/22/2005
  Q: I got my tattoo on my right side of my shoulder...On a friday I was told to use vasiline intensive ...
  A: Ben, You are having an allergic reaction to the lotion you are using. Discontinue use immediately ...
I got my first tattoo 4 days...2/20/2005
  Q: I got my first tattoo 4 days ago. I didn't have little red bumps around it until now. I think some ...
  A: Jamie, You are having an allergic reaction to the lotion you are using. Discontinue use immediately ...
apprenticeship2/17/2005
  Q: I have been getting tattooed and pierced for about the last 8 years. I have experimented in ...
  A: Sam, If you are serious about tattooing what you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship ...
Tattoo2/16/2005
  Q: My son has done tattooing for years, in his home, and from watching him, I'd say he's what you would ...
  A: Keith, If you are serious about tattooing what you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship ...
Sparrow2/16/2005
  Q: I was wondering what the meaning of the sparrow tattoo was. Thanx, Maddie
  A: Maddie, One of the oldest and most beautiful tattoos. The sparrow symbolizes an enduring love that ...
Concerned about fading2/16/2005
  Q: I am an 18 year old college student and am considering getting a cluster of colored stars tattooed ...
  A: Brittany, What you have heard is true! The feet and hands are high wear areas and the tattoos in ...
The Right Tattoo2/14/2005
  Q: I would like to get a tattoo on the middle of my lower back. I don't know exactly what I want, but ...
  A: Robyn, You will find that most professional studios have quite a large assortment of flash (tattoo ...
the number 92/12/2005
  Q: Why do people get a tattoo of the number 9?
  A: Matt, At one time, the number 9 was a rock-a-billy tattoo representing the 9 lives of the cat. I ...
first tattoo2/12/2005
  Q: while getting my first tattoo.. what can i focus on... while in pain?
  A: Nicky, Focus on your favorite thing and day dream about it, while getting the tattoo. Just make ...
tattooing over scars2/10/2005
  Q: I read the previous question on tattoo over scarring and was wondering about mine? My scars are ...
  A: Joshua, You can still tattoo over scars which are puffy or keloid, as yours are. Just check with ...
my tattoos2/9/2005
  Q: I done some of my own tattoos and they look good and i believe that I'm a good artist i used black ...
  A: KW, The reason you are having this problem is because "INDIA INK" is not "TATTOO PIGMENT." India ...
blue ink allergy?2/8/2005
  Q: I have a 1/2 sleeve tattoo, with completed portions of it fully healed. I have had it for about 5 ...
  A: Shelby, Unfortunatly I have no good news for you on this subject. You are suffering from a ...
tattooing over vitiligo2/3/2005
  Q: They are perfectly circular and maybe one inch in diameter. They have not changed since i can ...
  A: Laura, We do not advise tattooing over the Vitiligo on your back. Areas such as those you ...
tatto redness1/24/2005
  Q: i got a tattoo on my leg about 6 days ago. they used red mudgeing in the tattoo and was done in grey ...
  A: Jeff, I'm sorry to tell you this but the care instructions you were given were apparently (based on ...
Tattoo's & Pregnancy1/23/2005
  Q: I Just Got a Tottoo yesterday and now want to get pregnant. How long does the ink stay in your blood ...
  A: Cathy, Hi, The pigment does not enter the blood stream. If you got your tattoo done by a qualified ...
My friends tattoo1/20/2005
  Q: Maam, My mom went into a relationship with this guy she met at work, and he has a small tattoo on ...
  A: Emily, A tear drop near the eye usually signifies time served in prison. An upside down tear drop ...
tattoo1/17/2005
  Q: in a heartbroken funk of breaking up a 13 year marriage, I went to a tattoo parlor and got a tattoo ...
  A: Chris, The design you got is known as a "Sacred Heart" and is a old and very popular religious ...
Tattoo Problem1/11/2005
  Q: I got my first tattoo done, it looked great, until it really scabbed over (I was told to use Vitman ...
  A: Debora, First off let me apologize for the delay in getting back to you. We are opening a new ...
Tattooing over a birthmark1/7/2005
  Q: Is it possible to tattoo over a hemangioma birthmark? Answer - Mike, You should never tattoo over ...
  A: Mike, I have all the respect in the world for Doctors but as I am fond of saying.... "You would not ...
Tattoo over skin Grafts12/19/2004
  Q: I have a very large area on my abdomen extending around to my back at the waist level where I had ...
  A: Judi, First off let me apologize for taking so long to get back to you.... I never received your ...
I have a tattoo on my lower...12/8/2004
  Q: I have a tattoo on my lower back that when I run my hand over it, it feels smooth normally. When it ...
  A: Rosie, Whoever the artist was that tattooed you, used an impure pigment. More than likely a toxic ...
Tattoo Fading12/7/2004
  Q: I just got my tattoo done last Monday. I've been cleaning it and putting tattoo ink fixx on it too. ...
  A: Flavia, A couple of things can cause what is happening. The first thing I would advise you to do is ...
tattoo causes pimples12/2/2004
  Q: I got my first tattoo this past summer so were talking about 5-6 months. Its on the upper arm lots ...
  A: M323, You will probably eventually lose the pigment. Just FYI if the shop is State licensed and ...
tattoo causes pimples12/1/2004
  Q: I got my first tattoo this past summer so were talking about 5-6 months. Its on the upper arm lots ...
  A: M323, My first question to you would be.... Did you chill in the shop for an hour while the needles ...
Quesiton about tattooing an area.11/27/2004
  Q: I have a mole on my stomach and a little white scar that are both very close together. I am very ...
  A: Karen, You should NEVER tattoo over scars, large freckles or birthmarks as it can lead to ...
Tattoos11/22/2004
  Q: If you get a tattoo on your arm and your arm grows in size, does it affect the tattoo? i.e. does the ...
  A: Ricky, If you think that there will be major changes in your body you should wait. The skin is ...
kenji symbols11/17/2004
  Q: Do you have a picture of the kenji symbol for a protection talisman? If not, where could I find ...
  A: Sue, I have 2 sites for you to explore, http://www.nuthatch.com/kanjicards/ and ...
want your some help11/14/2004
  Q: i am from a very poor background family.and i am having a wish to become a tatoo artist.my problem ...
  A: There are a lot of places on the Internet to buy tattoo supplies. One place that I would suggest you ...
Tattoo/peircing11/12/2004
  Q: I Already have a tat of the text "Banff, Alberta" on my left shoulder blade. I am interested in ...
  A: Beek, I am sorry but I cannot make any suggestions to you on what would be a good tattoo for you. ...
Tattoos11/3/2004
  Q: I got a tattoo done on my lower back over a year ago. The problem is it is still very raised and I ...
  A: Lisa, Any number of things can cause a raised tattoo, reaction to pigment and scarring are the most ...
Bumby Tattoo10/28/2004
  Q: I am now 19 years of age and I had a tattoo done when I was 16. Half a year later my tattoo became ...
  A: La Toya, It sounds to me like you had an allergic reaction to the pigment, especially if it ...
career in tatoo and piercing10/20/2004
  Q: i have great appreciation for tatoos and piercings of all sorts, am in love with mine and cant help ...
  A: Martyna, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist ...
how10/19/2004
  Q: i was wondering if you could give me information on how to become a professional body piercer and ...
  A: BRITTANY, I get questions like yours all the time, Remember however, there is no substitute for a ...
Scarred Tatoo10/10/2004
  Q: I got my first tatoo a few months back. I've sinced had it touched up twice by the same guy and it ...
  A: Josh, Unfortunately there are a lot of people that do not know how to properly tattoo and when they ...
aprenticships8/20/2004
  Q: how do you recomend getting started in this feild? and how do you qualify for an aprenticeship?
  A: Peggy Anne, I get questions like yours all the time and we have developed some courses that can ...
tattoo meaning8/19/2004
  Q: As a teen I got a tattoo on my left hand skin between the thumb and forefinger of a star. I have ...
  A: Bandsinger, Found a book in my library that might be of some help to you, "History of Tattooing in ...
tattoo irritation7/30/2004
  Q: I got my tattoo in march of this year, I kept triple antibiotic ointment on it for about 3 weeks ...
  A: Jaime, Sorry to tell you but you have experienced what is known as "RED REACTION" very rare but it ...
tattooing7/29/2004
  Q: why is it that with some people it takes about four or five passes on one line before the ink ...
  A: Bill, Pigment not taking can be contributed to a lot of factors, improper needle depth, macine out ...
tattoos over scars7/28/2004
  Q: Hey The Gypsy I have a smilie(cigarette lighter) burn scar on my upper left arm and ive got a few ...
  A: Sammy M, 1. If the scar is over 1 year old, YES. 2. Depends on whether the scar is raised (keloid). ...
more red bumps..7/22/2004
  Q: I had a tattoo done about 3 weeks ago (on my forearm), during the first 2 weeks it scabbed and then ...
  A: Alan, Normally when the condition occurs that you have described it is a result of allergic ...
Spider web Tatoos7/21/2004
  Q: I am curious as to the meaning of the spider web tatoo on the elbow. It does have significance, ...
  A: Doug, The only meaning that a spider web tattoo has is the one YOU give it. The spider web is ...
Tattoo-allergic reaction.7/19/2004
  Q: ------ thank you once again. excsue the continuous questioning but, i am a runner, do you think i ...
  A: Josephine, Not a problem. You should not be washing it with soap at all! It sounds to me like you ...
Tattoo-allergic reaction.7/18/2004
  Q: but, i've asked many other tattoo artists and they say to continue using lotion lightly. i think ...
  A: Josephine, The tattoo will dry out.... that is what you want it to do. If you keep adding an ...
Tattoo-allergic reaction.7/18/2004
  Q: i got a tattoo on Tuesday on my mid back. just black,blue, and white. I used neosporin once , but ...
  A: Josephine, It sounds like you have experienced an allergic reaction to the Neosporin you were using ...
Bird/sparrow tattoos5/30/2004
  Q: Just a quick one. is there any special meaning to the sparrow or bird tattoos that so many people ...
  A: Mark, Generally any bird tattoo represents one of 2 things; Freedom or Love. A tattoo that ...
color over color5/28/2004
  Q: I just got my first tattoo. It's 75% done. When I got home I took a pic of it to be able to see it ...
  A: Reniet, I really hate it when I have to tell someone this but it sounds to me like you went to ...
Can give me some clues?5/27/2004
  Q: I was wanting to know if you could help me find a list of good tattoo and piercing schools. And i've ...
  A: Stan, You're absolutely incorrect, there are a lot of good online schools but you need investigate ...
star5/17/2004
  Q: I want to get a small star tattoo about 3 inches below my belly button, to the right (kind of near ...
  A: Lauren, The best way to answer your questions is to send you to my FAQ page at ...
nipple piercing5/14/2004
  Q: Well no obviously not the news I wanted, but thank you very much for replying so quickly. I just ...
  A: Nancy, Gypsy just called. I told him that basically, you wanted to know if you will have trouble ...
how do i get started5/13/2004
  Q: I will try and be quick, I am 24yrs old. I have been into art my whole life, drawing, painting, ...
  A: April, Hi, I am Debbie, Gypsy's wife. He is gone to Pawhuska, OK for a bike rally. I will answer ...
nipple piercing5/13/2004
  Q: Well my nipple piercing rejected and I waited too long to take it out so I have four holes in total ...
  A: Nancy, You really need to go see a doctor ASAP, in case you end up with further complications from ...
Effect of weight loss and pregnancy on a tattoo5/13/2004
  Q: I want to get a tattoo, but I am in the process of losing 70-80 total pounds (I've already lost 20.) ...
  A: Kristina, YES!!! Definitely wait until after you lose the desired weight. Your skin will be altered ...
appreticship5/5/2004
  Q: I was wondering if you know of any reputible parlors in the inland empire Cailfornia (Riverside, ...
  A: Diane, The best thing to do is footwork. Go door to door in person and visit with the different ...
Tattoo on Scars5/4/2004
  Q: I read your response to a previous question about tattooing on scars mainly on Skin Graphs and ...
  A: Aseem, We will take your questions one at a time. 1. If you can incoporate the scar to become part ...
partly pink and raised tattoo5/1/2004
  Q: There is no raised or pinkish colour outside the tattoo just solely on the tattoo itself. ...
  A: Lisa, First off let me apologize for taking a couple of extra days to get back to you. I was out of ...
Hello, Is it possible...4/23/2004
  Q: Is it possible to get a band tattooed around your toe? Thanks!
  A: Denise, It is possible, but the design will need to be very simple as the area is too small to fit ...
Tattoo Scarring4/21/2004
  Q: I have two tattoos on my body. One is on my shoulder blade, and the other is on my lower back (the ...
  A: Anna, WOW, what a question! A tattoo done properly does not scar and heals within 7 to 10 days. I ...
nose piercing4/18/2004
  Q: I had my nose pierced 4 days ago, and it bleeds everyday. It doesn't bleed a lot, but I was ...
  A: Claire, When a nose piercing is first done there will be light to moderate bleeding for the first ...
2nd question (Care for rash/weeping tattoo)4/16/2004
  Q: First of all, thank you for your rapid response. I've used a mild, hypoallergenic soap and cool ...
  A: EJC, Once a tattoo has broken out in a rash you should put nothing else on it. It needs to dry out ...
Ink allergy?4/16/2004
  Q: I just had an arm tattoo done yesterday (4/15) and the artist recommended that I saran-wrap the ...
  A: Firstly, NEVER use saran-wrap on a tattoo. You have been cooking your new design. Also, the saran ...
tattoos and spider veins4/13/2004
  Q: I have a few tattoos which I'm very happy with. Now, at 35, I've developed spider (varicose) veins ...
  A: Raf, Generally tattooing over varicose veins is not a problem. What is a problem is if the veins ...
Hi, I was wondering how much...4/10/2004
  Q: I was wondering how much tattoos normally cost. I know some places differ, but I was wondering how ...
  A: BethE, I cannot give you a going rate for tattoos as there is no such thing. As you stated it ...
Muscle Gain4/6/2004
  Q: About a year ago a got a tattoo of a scorpian on my right arm. Well, I've recently started working ...
  A: Maurice, Muscle gain will effect the tattoo slightly however, since the skin is elastic it should ...
piercing4/1/2004
  Q: I pierced my daughters belly button after researching the procedure. I am a licenced nurse. Now I ...
  A: CC, As I stated, I do not know what the shops in your area are like except for what you just told ...
piercing4/1/2004
  Q: I pierced my daughters belly button after researching the procedure. I am a licenced nurse. Now I ...
  A: CC, First off, I must be truthful with you before I answer your question, and tell you that I was ...
education3/31/2004
  Q: if i were to become a body piercer, what education and skills would i need to do and learn to get a ...
  A: Felisha, Let me apologize that it took so long to answer your question - my computer was down, and ...
TATTOO3/29/2004
  Q: -THANKS FOR THE RESPONSE........I HAVE A FOLLOW UP. I HAVE TO AT LEAST COVER THIS UP FROM TIME TO ...
  A: Phil, There is a theatrical make-up made by "Max Factor" that is used in the movie industry for ...
TATTOO3/29/2004
  Q: I have a half dollar size tattoo on my ankle that id like removed. It has some blue, red, green, ...
  A: Phil, Sorry to tell you but you cannot use flesh toned pigment to cover a tattoo. Because the ...
how to start?3/24/2004
  Q: I was wondering if you could tell me what the very first step to becoming an apprentice is. I have ...
  A: Courtney, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist ...
Milk chocolate colored skin3/24/2004
  Q: in advance, for your time. FACTS: I am a black girl with skin that is aproximately the color of a ...
  A: Cayenne, Chocolate Brown skin is not as diffulcult as some people think to tattoo. There are just a ...
infection3/19/2004
  Q: I have had my navel pierced for over 10 years. 8 mos. ago, I got my nipple pierced. Weirdest thing, ...
  A: Heather, Are you sure it's surgical steel? Have you changed the jewelry in your navel recently? ...
licence3/16/2004
  Q: how can I get my tattoo licence?
  A: Lucas, Licensing requirements vary from state to state. While one state requires only $50 and a ...
SELF-GIVEN TATTOO3/14/2004
  Q: Okay so i've been wanting to get a tattoo for a while now but my mom said i was too young,15, so the ...
  A: Vanessa, I am going to tell you some things that you will not want to hear. (1) Your Mom was ...
Tattoing near a scar3/5/2004
  Q: Two months ago, I underwent back surgery that left me with a 2 foot scar on my back, and a smaller ...
  A: Blair, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a diffulcult and tedious process. Also, if the scar is ...
fading color2/25/2004
  Q: my artist put the wrong color into my tattoo and its far too dark now. is there anything i can do to ...
  A: NIK, There are a couple of things that can be done to resolve your problem..... Unfortunately all ...
apprenticeship2/9/2004
  Q: Ok, I want to be a tattoo artist...not just on a whim, but I want to make it my life's work. How do ...
  A: Megan, What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist in ...
Piercing1/31/2004
  Q: I was just wondering if it is possible to have some form on anaesthetic used when getting a piercing ...
  A: Michelle, Numbing is unneccessary and I recomeend strongly (as do most pros who know their ...
red bumps around tattoo1/16/2004
  Q: I got another tattoo about a week ago on my upper arm, I have these little red bumps that itch ...
  A: Kevin, You have developed an allergy to the ointment that you are using on your tattoo. This is ...
Tattoos over heels1/8/2004
  Q: I have remaining scars from what looks to be a callus on the middle of my heels From constantly ...
  A: Suzy, Sorry, but those are the types of scars that cannot be covered. Plus being that it is a high ...
Designing my Tat1/5/2004
  Q: I plan on designing my own tattoo since I have (not to sound conceited) considerable art ability- ...
  A: Alana, First off it will be good for you to understand that the detail and subject matter of the ...
HI. I was having a fairly...12/21/2003
  Q: I was having a fairly detailed piece done on my calf, and after about three hours of working on me, ...
  A: Natalie, If your skin was rejecting the pigment then your artist did the right thing. Sometimes ...
Hi. I have two questions....11/8/2003
  Q: I have two questions. I would like to get some darker tattoo art(I have a vampire in mind) but I ...
  A: Dianne, Ever hear of the expression, "opposites attract?" Clashing designs in tattoos make for some ...
dark skin10/5/2003
  Q: I have dark tan skin and have two tattoos, one is black the other deep brown. I wanted to get a ...
  A: David, Bright colors should work fine on you. Gypsy usually advises African-American people to go ...
Tattoo over Scarring?9/12/2003
  Q: I have a large scar on my upper arm that I would like to cover with a dark tattoo. The scar is from ...
  A: Laeta, Yes, scars can be covered but it is a difficult and tedious process. Also, if the scar is ...
After care - raised tattoo8/22/2003
  Q: I got my first tattoo on July 20th of this year. It is placed at the small of my back. I have since ...
  A: Karine, In order to give you a definitive cause, I will need a little more information. Is ...

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