Tattoo Kiss

Can I bring my own design or idea?

Yes, absolutely. You must certify that you have the artist’s permission to use it, unless you certify that you are the artist.

Do you offer custom tattoo designs?

Yes, up to 5 drafts are free. Additional revisions are charged at $25 per revision, up to $50 of which is credited towards your tattoo at the time of payment.

How much input can I have in the design process?

As much as you want! Just make sure you’re as specific as possible in the initial description, so you don’t have to pay additional fees for additional drafts.

What measures do you take to ensure a safe and sterile environment?

Oregon enforces heavy regulations for sterile and clean procedures that are all completely adhered to. Examples include: covering any reusable instruments that will be used, disposable cartridges/needles, single-use products, gloves, sterile set-up, etc.

Are your tattoo artists licensed and certified?

Yes, all of the licenses are clearly posted in the shop.

Do you have any policies regarding hygiene and sanitation?

Yes, you MUST shower before your tattoo appointment. Washing your hands and wearing clean clothes are also important for your safety, tattoo, and the tattoo artist. See more here.

Can I get a tattoo if I have sensitive or reactive skin?

Yes, but your skin needs to be calm and stable. Avoid tattooing over active flare-ups, irritation, or broken skin. Consistent hydration and gentle care in the weeks leading up to your appointment will help your skin handle the process better. Learn about prepping your skin for your appointment here.

What products are safe for sensitive skin before a tattoo?

Gentle, fragrance-free, and barrier-supporting products work best. Examples include BioDerma Shower Oil for cleansing, Magic Molecule Hypochlorous Acid Spray for calming inflammation, and a mineral sunscreen like Native Unscented Mineral Spray to protect skin from UV damage. Always patch test new products first. Learn why I recommend these products here.

What are the best aftercare products for sensitive skin?

For sensitive or reactive skin, gentle and soothing products are key. After your tattoo, wash the area with Dial’s fragrance-free, antibacterial soap to keep it clean without irritation. Then, apply Mad Rabbit Repair Soothing Gel, which is vegan, gentle, and formulated to calm and support tattoo healing. These steps help reduce redness, irritation, and promote optimal healing. Read my aftercare instructions for sensitive skin here.

How long should I prep sensitive skin before a tattoo?

Start at least 2 weeks before your appointment. For best results, aim for 3–4 weeks. If your skin is prone to flare-ups or is currently irritated, give yourself 4–8 weeks or more. Consistency is more important than intensity. Learn more about it here.

Can sensitive skin still get color tattoos?

Yes, but some reactive skin may experience more swelling or slight pigment variation during healing. Stick to areas that are stable and avoid active inflammation. Your tattoo artist can help you choose placement and ink strategies.

Do I need to avoid certain products before my appointment?

Yes. Avoid harsh exfoliants, strong acids, retinoids (unless prescribed and stable), and new skincare products that could trigger a reaction. Keep your routine simple and predictable.

How can I tell if my sensitive skin is ready for a tattoo?

Your skin is ready when it is calm, hydrated, fully intact, and stable for at least 1–2 weeks. No redness, flaking, or irritation should be present. If you are unsure, consult your tattoo artist or doctor.

What if my skin is always sensitive?

That’s okay. Focus on consistent care, hydration, and avoiding triggers. Even highly reactive skin can be prepared for a tattoo with patience and proper support.

Do you have experience working with darker skin tones?

Yes! My first tattoo was on a Fitzpatrick 6 (very dark skin). I love tattooing all skin tones. One key factor when tattooing darker skin is using more negative space between lines. This helps the design stay clear and readable, prevents the tattoo from looking too dense, and allows the ink to heal evenly. I also adjust shading, contrast, and color choices to ensure the tattoo pops beautifully while respecting the natural undertones of the skin. Proper spacing and technique make a big difference in both how the tattoo looks right after it’s done and how it heals over time. Learn more here.

Can I get a tattoo over stretch marks?

Yes, you can tattoo over stretch marks, but results may vary. Make sure the skin is fully healed, at least one year old, and free of redness or purple tones. Hydrate and gently massage the area with Vitamin E oil leading up to your appointment to help improve skin flexibility. Keep in mind that ink may settle differently on stretch-marked skin compared with smooth skin. Learn about inkless treatments here.

Can you tattoo over scars or existing tattoos?

Yes, but scars are on a case-by-case basis since there are so many factors that go into determining if it is safe. Scars should be treated similarly to stretch marks. Cover-ups aren’t my specialty, so I review your existing tattoo before booking to make sure I can create a cover-up you’ll be happy with.

Can I get a tattoo if I form keloids?

Getting a tattoo is not recommended if you are prone to keloids. Tattoos can trigger raised, thickened scars that may be difficult to treat. Always consult your doctor or dermatologist before considering a tattoo. If you proceed, your tattoo artist may recommend smaller designs, lighter needle pressure, or test spots. Proper skin prep, hydration, and gentle aftercare are essential, but keloid-prone skin may still respond unpredictably.

How long does it take for a tattoo to heal?

Typically 2 to 4 weeks, although individual experiences may vary based on factors such as tattoo size, location, and personal health. I recommend waiting 6 weeks to make sure the tattoo is fully healed. This also changes if you have more sensitive skin.

What should I do if my tattoo becomes infected or doesn’t heal properly?

To prevent this, make sure you use proper aftercare. You will be provided with instructions. But if something unlikely does happen, call your tattoo artist immediately, stop your aftercare, and remove your second skin if wearing, you may be reacting to one of them. If you have excessive redness/drainage, swelling, or red streaks going out from the tattooed area, contact a physician immediately; you may need medical attention. This is extremely rare since proper tattooing techniques will be used, as long as you use proper aftercare.

Can I go swimming or expose my tattoo to sunlight during the healing process?

Avoid swimming or soaking the area for at least 2 weeks after the procedure. Avoid salt water or chlorine pools for 4-6 weeks. Generally, your tattoo should never be exposed to the sun without sunscreen, but be especially careful during the healing process. Be especially careful and wait the full 6 weeks if you have sensitive skin.

What aftercare products do you recommend?

After your tattoo, wash the area with Dial’s fragrance-free, antibacterial soap to keep it clean without irritation. Then, apply Mad Rabbit Repair Soothing Gel, which is vegan, gentle, and formulated to calm and support tattoo healing. These steps help reduce redness, irritation, and promote optimal healing. Read more about the aftercare process here. Read aftercare instructions for sensitive skin here.

How can I keep my tattoo looking fresh?

Once your tattoo has healed, continue to care for it with Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm Brightener. This product helps maintain color vibrancy, keeps skin moisturized, and is gentle enough for sensitive or reactive skin too! Consistent hydration and gentle care are key to keeping your tattoo looking its best over time.

Why is aftercare so important?

Following aftercare instructions helps your tattoo heal properly, retain color, and avoid infection or irritation. Good aftercare is especially important for sensitive or reactive skin, as it supports both your skin’s health and the longevity of your tattoo. Read more about it here!

How painful is getting a tattoo?

It depends on your pain tolerance, but a tattoo will hurt no matter who you are. I would recommend numbing, but if you choose not to use any, you should expect intense, but manageable pain. You can buy the numbing cream I recommend here.

Are there any ways to minimize discomfort during the tattooing process?

Yes, see more information before your appointment here for tips on helping with discomfort. Numbing is also recommended.

Do you offer numbing options or pain management techniques?

Yes, I offer my own numbing cream for a small additional charge, but you are also welcome to bring your own. Just make sure you are not allergic to any of the ingredients and that you buy it from a safe and reputable brand. The brand I use is called Mad Rabbit. You can use my code “TATMELISSA” for 20% off your order.

Do you offer touch-ups?

The first touch-up is free and can be done at any time after your appointment (assuming the 6-week healing window has passed)! After that, the rate is a flat rate of $100. Message me in our chat on Venue Ink and request a touch-up. I’ll send you a link to schedule.

How soon after getting a tattoo can I schedule a touch-up?

You must wait at least 6 weeks for the tattoo to fully heal before we can book a touch-up to avoid damaging the skin too much.

Can I bring a friend or family member with me to my appointment?

One person is allowed in the room with you, however they must be 18 or older.

Are pets/ESA animals allowed?

No. For health and safety reasons, animals are not allowed in the studio, as it needs to remain as sterile as possible. Trained service animals are welcome in accordance with the ADA.

I have an appointment, and I can’t find you! What do I do?

Make sure you have the right appointment time. I am only open when I have appointments and do not take walk-ins. If you have the right date and time, I wrote this article to explain everything you need to know about finding me and parking nearby. But if you still have issues, call me at 5098282408.

What accommodations do you offer at Tattoo Kiss?

I make every effort to create an accessible and comfortable environment for all clients. I accommodate wheelchairs, anxious clients, neurodiverse individuals, people with chronic illnesses, and I am size-inclusive. My goal is to ensure everyone feels safe, supported, and respected throughout their tattoo experience.

For more details on how I accommodate different needs, check out this article.

Anything I didn’t answer?

Read more about questions beginners want answered but might be too scared to ask.