Should I tip my artist or piercer?

Well, that is something completely up to you. If you have a good experience and your artist goes way above and beyond your expectations, a tip is a very nice gesture. You tip your waitress, barber, and bartender. While those are honorable professions, few are performing serious, (potentially dangerous) procedures on your body. If you tip for an adult beverage, haircut, or coffee, then tipping excellent service of a tattoo artist should be a fairly reasonable consideration. Tipping also lets your artist know that what they have done is appreciated. Your tattoo artist usually does tattoos for the love of the art and a tip is about the best way to say thank you. Tips are always appreciated, never expected.

Is there an age limit to get tattooed or pierced in Iowa?

Yes, you must be 18 to get tattooed or pierced in the State of Iowa. There is an exception for piercing: a minor over the age of 14 can get pierced in the presence of their parent or guardian. Both minor and parent must have a photo ID with them and sign a release form the day of the piercing. No nipple or genital piercing will be performed on minors.

What should I do during the procedure?

Sit back and try to relax, the more you relax the better experience you and your artist will have. Remember, your artist is drawing on your skin permanently, so try to hold as still as you possibly can. Any sudden or jerky move you make may show up badly in your tattoo. If you start to feel nauseous of light headed in any way, tell your artist, they have been in this situation before and will know what to do. For the most part, just grin and bare it. For some, getting a tattoo is the only relaxation they get in our busy day to day lives!

How do I care for my new tattoo?

You must not only be aware of safeguards used by your artist, you must also understand that ultimately YOU are responsible for the care of your new tattoo. These are our recommendations for your new tattoo. For 2 weeks after your new tattoo Wash Tattooed area by hand (no wash cloths, loofahs, etc) FOUR times daily. Rinse well. Pat dry and apply VERY THIN layer of Bacitracin or Tattoo Goo. Do not soak the tattoo in ANY KIND OF WATER. Absolutely no Swimming for two weeks. Do not expose to excessive sun. Use sterile bandage if tattoo is at risk of exposure to dust, chemicals, glass, or ultraviolet rays. Do not scratch or pick scabs. Itching can be relived by slapping lightly. Do NOT do this if there is any scabbing present. Keep Tattoo covered with loose clean clothing. Try not to sleep directly on your new tattoo for at least one week.

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