Q: Does it hurt?
A:
There is always some degree of pain when getting a tattoo done. After the first tattoo most people don't think it was as painful as they though. Some people even claim to have a ephoric feeling. This is caused by endorphines being released during the process. The area of your body will also have some influence on the degree of pain involved. In general areas with more bone exposed (ankles, wrists, etc.) tend to more painful than areas with more muscle and fat (arms, thighs, etc.). In any case the pain is temproray but the result is amazing.
Q: How do you care for a tattoo?
A:
Your new tattoo has been bandaged, and it should be removed after at least four hours. It is very important that your new tattoo be protected from the sun and dirty environments, as it is a rather large open wound at this time. You should wait to remove the bandage until you can properly clean it with mild soap and warm water. Rinse it well, and pat it dry, then allow it to air-dry before applying ointment. You should apply ointment, either A&D or Bacitracin, regularly throughout the day, keeping the tattoo slightly moist, but NOT smothered. Use just enough ointment to make the tattoo slightly shiny, and blot off any excess. For the first day or two, your tattoo will require more cleaning, as it will lose fluid at first--this is normal. You want to make sure that moisture doesn't get trapped under the ointment (hence the air-drying), and that he tattoo doesn't stay submerged in water either. We recommend washing your tattoo a couple times throughout the day, using only mild soap, and rinsing and drying well. Frequency of cleaning depends on your lifestyle--use your best judgement, but don't overdo it. You should only apply ointment for as many days as it takes for your tattoo to peel, this process will take anywhere from three days to 1 week, depending on your body and the area of skin. It will begin to flake like sunburn--just let this happen on its own, and don't pick at it. When the tattoo has fully entered the peeling phase, you need not, and should not, apply any more ointment. The area will become dry and itchy, and a good hand lotion should help with this. Here's what you should look out for with this method. Should any "bubbling" of your tattoo occur, you should consider method 2. This bubbling is caused from moisture (usually too much ointment!) getting trapped in your tattoo, and could lead to scabbing. If scabs develop, they can remove the color beneath them. It is very important that they are allowed to dry out completely, and not at any time get water-logged. The scab will eventually fall off on its own, and your tattoo should be fine if you keep the scabs dry. Also, some people develop a small allergic reaction to Bacitracin, which shows up as a red rash around the tattoo, and disappears once the ointment is no longer used. A small percentage of people may develop a more serious reaction, and may require medical attention, so we suggest the use of Aquaphor unless you've not had problems with Bacitracin in the past.
Q: Is a tattoo permanent?
A:
Yes and No. Tattoos should be considered as something that is you and will be with you forever. However there are modern laser surgery techniques to remove them but are very costly and painful.
Q: Is there a health risk involved with tattooing?
A:
Here at SayOw!Tattoo and Body Piercings we maintain high standards of cleanliness to insure the safety of clients and artist alike. All pre-sterilized needles and tubes are for single use only and are discarded after use. All machines and equipment are protected from cross contamination with barriers, while hand washing and gloves round out the remaining precautions used.
Q: where does the word tattoo originate from?
A:
it comes from the Samoan term, "ta tau"(ta)meaning to strike,(tau)"appropriate, harvest,war (tatau) to reach a desired point;to make whole; the act of straining.
Q: How do I set an appointment?
A:
you can call (865)224-0425 and see about availability, if you want a specific date it is best to come by and make a deposit to guarantee your time and date.
Q: Can I have a drink before I get tattooed?
A:
No. It is illegal and ill-advised to get tattooed while you are under the influence. It will not make your experience any better. It actually makes the process more difficult for you and the artist and raises the risk of complications
I reserve the right to refuse service to anyone, for any reason. Especially mean, nasty, rude people, or people with bad attitudes. Feel free to take your attitude elsewhere.
©AdamPhillips
