Faq’s
Does it hurt?
The simple answer is, yes it can. However, not as much as some people might like you to think as usually your body’s natural endorphins come into effect. How long these endorphins last usually determines your natural ‘limit’ as to how long a tattoo session you can handle (usually between 2-3 hours), after this time you might feel some uncomfortableness.
The pain of a tattoo is often likened to a mild burning sensation or a cat scratch. Different areas of the body tend to be more sensitive then others and can depend on your own pain threshold
What is the after care process?
Once you have received your tattoo, leave it covered for at least an hour. Once the cling wrap cover is removed, wash your tattoo with soapy water to remove all residue and pat it dry with a clean cloth and apply a thin layer of your aftercare cream to cover the tattoo without leaving excess on the surface. We recommend Bepanthen antiseptic after care cream which we sell in the studio for your aftercare. Showering is ok, but do not soak or submerge your tattoo in water. No swimming or direct sunlight for 10-14 days depending on how your skin heals. When drying, gently pat, do not rub. NEVER apply after care cream when your tattoo is wet and wait for the tattoo to completely dry before doing so.
A tattoo is like a graze, so when the dry layer forms in the first few days, let it heal – do not scratch or pick at it; Let the scab fall away by itself.
After 10-14 days your tattoo should be fully healed.
Can I use numbing cream?
Bondi Ink does not recommend any numbing cream except our very own made by our own compound chemist which is heat activated and needs to be applied prior to your tattoo session for optimum results.
What do I do on the day of my tattoo?
On the day of the tattoo, it is important you have something to eat and you are nice and full. Not eating will lower your blood sugar levels and can bring on dizziness and possibly fainting. Having a meal and consuming natural sugars, such as orange juice can help to prevent this. If you feel faint during your tattoo, let your artist know immediately, and they will help you through it! We also have complimentary Monster energy drinks which are free of charge and packed with sugar to help you through the tattoo. Secondly, think about what you are going to wear. You know where you are likely to get your tattoo, so make sure you dress so that the artist can tattoo the area while at the same time maintaining modesty. Bondi Ink also has a private area that you can request if you feel like you need a little more privacy.
Other things you may want to consider bringing might include an ipod, ipad book or something to pass the time.
How do I decide on a design?
There are a few ways. Having an idea of what you were after assists our artists in designing a custom, unique piece for you. Artists also have “flash art” that you can choose from that they have pre designed and drawn showcasing their style and artistic flair. In addition to this, your artist will be able to work with you to generate a tattoo that is personal, has more meaning and is less likely to go out of favour with you in a few years.
Bondi Ink is open seven days a week and we always suggest that you begin your tattoo journey with an initial free consultation with your artist to discuss your design. If you can bring your tattoo artist any image references you think maybe of interest, this will help you both understand the direction of the tattoo better. Examples and ideas image references are fine, they don’t have to be exact ideas! Our artists will discuss everything from size and placement, to time and cost. Once your tattoo idea has been determined, the artist will give you an idea of the time it will take to complete your tattoo and a quote of how much the tattoo will cost. Booking your tattoo will require a deposit which comes off your total balance on the day. Should you not show up to the day of appointment for any reason, please note your deposit will be lost. We will confirm your appointment 48 hours prior to the day.
Do you have vegan ink?
Yes, our artists have vegan ink. Please ask them during your consultation so they can have it ready when you come in for your tattoo.
Do you have Afterpay?
Afterpay is accessed in store on our POS system - enquire about it when you come in for your tattoo!