Tattoos 101: Everything you need to know before getting inked

Getting a tattoo is a decision not to be taken lightly — after all, it is next to permanent, and removing it might end up becoming more expensive than getting it.

Tattoo artists and staff from FiftyFive Tinta Pilipinas spoke with GMA News Online to answer some frequently asked questions when it comes to inking your skin.

Is the process painful?

Since getting a tattoo involves needles puncturing the skin, the process generally involves some pain.

However, Jeff Agao, who has been a tattoo artist for 15 years, said that the tattoo's location and the client's personal pain tolerance will affect how much it hurts.

"Generally speaking, the most painful body parts to ink are bony areas, or areas with thin skin or that have a lot of nerve endings such as the ribs, spine, head, hands, and feet," he said.

How much is a tattoo?

If you want to know how much you have to save for a tattoo, it is yet another thing that varies. Prices depend on the designs, and different shops and artists have different ranges.

"Placement, actual size and coverage, colors and style, and the design's intricacy of details are factors that affect pricing. It will also be decided by our respective artists," said Karl Andrei Castillo, manager of FiftyFive Tinta's Maginhawa branch.

"Our minimum rate starts at P3,000 for a 2-inch design, either black or colored," he added.

How long does healing take?

If you're getting inked, prepare to take it easy for some time afterwards to make room for healing.

FiftyFive Tinta artists said it usually takes two weeks to a month for fresh tattoos to heal, depending on how well clients do post-care.

Some tips from resident tattoo artists Andrew Desilva, Alvin Gantioque, Maan Simbajon, and CJ Dupitas:

• Always keep your fresh tattoo clean. You may wash it two to three times daily with mild soap.
• Avoid scratching and plucking the scabs as it is part of the healing process. You may apply a small amount of ointment or hypoallergenic lotion to moisturize your tattoo. Ask your artist for recommendations on which products should be used.
• Avoid exposing your tattoo to dirt, direct exposure to sunlight, and soaking it for too long.
• Always ask for your artist's assistance if you are not certain what to do.

How should people prepare for their first tattoo?

If you are fully committed and ready to get your first tattoo, FiftyFive Tinta shared advice on how to prepare for it.

First things first, look for design references that you may share with your artist for them to better understand your idea. On that note — make sure you do a quick research about your preferred artist or studio to learn more about the quality of their work.

Once done, all that's left is to make sure your body is ready for the procedure.

"Get a good night's sleep," Jeff said. "The last thing you want is to come in and be completely exhausted for your tattoo session. Make sure you are well rested and have eaten before your tattoo session. Avoid drinking at least a day or two, and make sure you are hydrated."

And make sure you're dressed accordingly based on the placement of your tattoo as well!

Can a tattoo be removed?

If all is said and done and you find that you regret your tattoo, don't worry — all is not lost.

Tattoo removals are already available at some skin clinics and tattoo parlors.

However, it may take a couple of sessions and may be more expensive in the long run. —GMA Integrated News