Care & Info
Aftercare & FAQ
Everything you need to know before and after your tattoo.
Healing
Tattoo Aftercare
Follow these steps to ensure your tattoo heals perfectly and looks vibrant for years to come.
Keep It Covered
Leave the bandage on for 2–6 hours after your session. Your artist will tell you exactly when to remove it based on the size and placement.
Wash Gently
After removing the bandage, wash the tattoo with unscented, antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean paper towel — do not rub.
Moisturize
Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free lotion or a tattoo-specific aftercare ointment 2–3 times daily. Do not over-saturate — a little goes a long way.
Avoid Sun & Water
Stay out of direct sunlight, swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas for at least 2 weeks. Submerging a fresh tattoo can cause infection and fading.
Don't Pick or Scratch
Peeling and itching are normal. Let scabs and flakes fall off naturally. Picking can pull out ink and cause scarring or patchy healing.
Healing Timeline
Most tattoos heal in 2–4 weeks. Larger pieces or color-packed areas may take longer. Continue light moisturizing until the skin feels fully restored.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common things our clients ask.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book through our contact form, by phone, or via Instagram DM. A deposit is required to secure your appointment, which goes toward the final cost of your tattoo.
How much does a tattoo cost?
Pricing varies based on size, detail, placement, and the artist. We offer estimates during consultations. Small pieces may have a shop minimum, while larger projects are priced by the session or as a flat project rate.
Does it hurt?
Pain levels depend on placement and your personal tolerance. Areas with more muscle and fat (like the upper arm or thigh) tend to be more manageable. Bony or sensitive areas (ribs, hands, feet) can be more intense. We do our best to make you comfortable.
Can I bring my own design?
Absolutely. Bring references, sketches, or ideas — our artists will work with you to refine the design so it translates beautifully to skin. Every tattoo we do is customized for the client.
How long does a tattoo take?
Small tattoos may take 30 minutes to an hour. Medium-sized pieces can take 2–4 hours. Large-scale work like sleeves or back pieces is usually broken into multiple sessions.
What should I do before my appointment?
Eat a full meal, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol the night before, and wear comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area being tattooed. Get a good night's sleep.
Policy
Touch-Up Policy
We stand behind our work. Here's how touch-ups work at Black Dahlia Tattoo.
Free Touch-Up
One complimentary touch-up is included within 3 months of your original session, provided you followed proper aftercare.
After 3 Months
Touch-ups requested after 3 months are subject to a fee based on the amount of work needed.
Neglected Aftercare
Damage caused by sun exposure, picking, swimming, or failure to follow aftercare instructions may not qualify for a free touch-up.
Scheduling
Touch-ups are scheduled during regular business hours. Contact us to book a short session with your original artist.
Rules
Tattoo Age Requirement
You Must Be 18 or Older
Black Dahlia Tattoo strictly tattoos clients aged 18 and over. No exceptions — even with parental consent. South Carolina law prohibits tattooing minors, and we adhere to this regulation without exception.
A valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) is required at the time of your appointment. Please come prepared.
Get Started
Ready for Your Next Tattoo?
Book a consultation and let our artists bring your vision to life.