TATTOOS FAQS
Interested in working with Emme but have some questions? Explore the FAQs below and feel free to shoot us a message if your question isn't answered here.
In order to ensure a safe, professional, and optimal tattooing experience, EMME Tattooing has established the following pre-appointment recommendations and conditions, which every client must take into account before attending their session.
1. Hydration and Skin Care
1.1. Clients are advised to maintain proper hydration in the days leading up to their appointment by drinking plenty of water to promote healthy and elastic skin. 1.2. The area to be tattooed should be kept well moisturised using a suitable hydrating cream, avoiding dryness or irritation. 1.3. Properly hydrated skin allows for cleaner linework, better pigment absorption, and more even healing.
2. Alcohol, Smoking, and Other Substances
2.1. Clients are advised to avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and any substances with anticoagulant effects for at least 24 hours before the appointment. 2.2. The use of such substances can thin the blood, potentially causing increased bleeding during the session and reduced pigment retention. 2.3. Additionally, arriving under the influence of alcohol or drugs may compromise the client’s physical or mental state; therefore, EMME Tattooing reserves the right to cancel or reschedule the session if it deems that the client is unfit to proceed.
3. Rest and Nutrition
3.1. Clients should arrive well-rested and having eaten a light, nutritious meal before the session. 3.2. Attending on an empty stomach or while physically exhausted may result in dizziness, fainting, or discomfortduring the tattooing process.
4. Punctuality and Studio Access
4.1. Clients are requested to arrive no more than 10 minutes before their scheduled appointment time. 4.2. This ensures smooth organisation and punctuality of all sessions, avoiding congestion or unnecessary waiting inside the studio. 4.3. If the client arrives more than 15 minutes late, the studio reserves the right to cancel the appointment and retain the deposit, in accordance with the general cancellation policy.
5. Client Responsibility and Compliance
5.1. By booking an appointment, the client confirms that they have read and understood these recommendations and agree to follow the preparation guidelines provided. 5.2. EMME Tattooing will not be held responsible for irregular results or healing issues resulting from failure to follow these instructions. 5.3. These recommendations form part of the studio’s Terms and Conditions of Service, and compliance with them is essential to guarantee both quality and safety.
At EMME Tattooing, we deeply value mutual respect, diversity, and professionalism within our studio environment. Our goal is to provide every client with a safe, welcoming, and high-quality experience, while ensuring that all our artists work in a dignified and respectful atmosphere.
1. Expected Client Conduct
1.1. Clients are expected to maintain a respectful, courteous, and cooperative attitude at all times towards our artists, studio staff, and other clients present. 1.2. EMME Tattooing is fully committed to delivering professional service and high-quality customer care, and likewise expects clients to behave with kindness and consideration throughout their visit.
2. Unacceptable Behaviour
2.1. The studio will not tolerate any form of disrespect, whether verbal, written, or physical, towards any member of our team. 2.2. Any act of discrimination, racism, xenophobia, homophobia, transphobia, sexism, harassment, intimidation, or rejection based on religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality, or physical appearance is strictly prohibited. 2.3. The use of offensive language, shouting, threats, or intimidating behaviour towards our staff or other clients will also be considered a serious breach of conduct.
3. Right of Refusal and Service Cancellation
3.1. Should the team determine that a client is behaving in an offensive, discriminatory, or inappropriate manner, EMME Tattooing reserves the absolute right to cancel the appointment immediately. 3.2. The studio may, if necessary, request the client to leave the premises immediately, without any right to a refundof the deposit paid. 3.3. This policy is enforced to protect the integrity, safety, and well-being of both our resident and guest artists, as well as other clients.
4. Professional and Safe Environment
4.1. Just as EMME Tattooing is dedicated to providing professional excellence and respectful customer service, we equally expect clients to demonstrate respect and courtesy towards our team. 4.2. We believe that an atmosphere grounded in kindness, empathy, and mutual respect is essential to ensure a positive experience and high-quality artistic results. 4.3. By booking an appointment, the client acknowledges and accepts that the studio reserves the right to discontinue any service if the values outlined in this policy are violated.
By making a booking with EMME Tattooing, the client acknowledges that they have read, understood, and fully accepted the following Cancellation and Deposit Policy, which forms an integral part of the studio’s Terms and Conditions of Service.
1. Deposit Requirement
1.1. To confirm any appointment, a deposit payment is strictly required. 1.2. The deposit amount may vary depending on the type of booking or design requested and will be deducted from the total cost of the tattoo on the day of the session. 1.3. Deposits must be paid through the studio’s official payment channels. No appointment will be considered confirmed until the corresponding payment has been received and verified.
2. Appointment Cancellations or Changes
2.1. Clients may cancel or reschedule their appointment provided that they give at least 48 hours (2 full days) notice prior to the scheduled date and time. 2.2. Such notice must be provided in writing, via WhatsApp or email, using the official communication channels of the studio. 2.3. Notice provided within the required timeframe allows the client to either reschedule their session or request a refund of the deposit, in accordance with Section 4 of this document. 2.4. Any cancellations or changes made outside of the required notice period will be deemed a breach of the cancellation policy, and the deposit will be automatically forfeited without the right to refund.
3. No-Show Policy
3.1. If the client fails to attend their appointment without prior notice, or arrives more than 15 minutes late without communication, the studio reserves the right to cancel the appointment and retain the full deposit. 3.2. This measure is necessary to maintain the studio’s internal scheduling and to respect the artist’s working time.
4. Approved Refunds
4.1. Refunds of deposits will only be issued when the client has notified the studio of the cancellation within the timeframe stated in Section 2. 4.2. Once the refund request has been approved, the refund will be processed within a maximum of 15 working daysfrom confirmation. 4.3. Refunds will be issued using the same payment method originally used to make the booking. 4.4. EMME Tattooing operates as a small independent team; while every effort will be made to process refunds promptly, the timeframe may vary depending on workload or external banking processes.
5. Cancellations Initiated by the Studio
5.1. Should EMME Tattooing need to reschedule or cancel an appointment due to circumstances beyond the client’s control (such as illness, force majeure, or technical issues), the client will be entitled to choose between:
a) Rescheduling their appointment to a mutually agreed date, or
b) Receiving a full refund of the deposit amount. 5.2. In such cases, the studio commits to notifying the client as early as possible and to acting with complete transparency and professionalism.
6. Acceptance of Terms
6.1. The confirmation of an appointment and payment of the deposit constitute the client’s full and unconditional acceptance of this policy. 6.2. Any breach of the terms outlined herein authorises the studio to retain the deposit and, where applicable, decline future bookings.
By engaging the services of EMME Tattooing, the client acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to the following Tattoo Retouch Policy, which forms an integral part of the studio’s Terms and Conditions of Service.
1. Mandatory Evaluation Prior to Retouch
1.1. Any retouching will be subject to prior evaluation by the artist, who will determine the state of healing and the actual need for a touch-up. 1.2. Retouches will only be performed once the tattoo is fully healed, according to the professional judgement of the tattoo artist. 1.3. Clients must provide clear photographs of the tattoo or attend an in-person evaluation before a retouch appointment can be scheduled.
2. Complimentary Retouches
2.1. EMME Tattooing offers complimentary touch-ups only when, after professional assessment, it is determined that the tattoo requires minor corrections or small pigment adjustments. 2.2. Complimentary retouches must be requested within 3 months of the original tattoo session, unless otherwise specified by the artist. 2.3. Complimentary retouches are subject to the artist’s availability and must be carried out by the same artist who completed the original tattoo.
3. Retouches Subject to an Additional Fee
3.1. If the tattoo shows significant pigment loss, extensive fading, or damage caused by poor healing, a minimum retouch fee will apply. The amount will depend on the design, size, and complexity of the tattoo. 3.2. The studio cannot guarantee 100% of the healing outcome, as the final result depends on each client’s individual physiology and aftercare practices. 3.3. If the artist determines that the damage or fading is due to improper aftercare, scratching, exposure to sunlight, use of unsuitable products, or interference during healing, the client shall be required to cover the full cost of the additional work.
4. Delicate Body Areas
4.1. Tattoos located on hands, fingers, neck, feet, or other high-friction or sensitive areas are considered unstable healing zones. 4.2. In such cases, retouches will not be free of charge, and a minimum retouch fee will apply, due to the natural fragility and ink loss tendency of these skin areas. 4.3. The client understands that tattoos placed in these zones may require ongoing maintenance or future retouches, which do not represent a fault or error on the artist’s part.
5. Tattoos by Other Artists
5.1. EMME Tattooing does not offer complimentary retouches on tattoos performed by other studios or external artists. 5.2. Any intervention on a tattoo created by another artist will be treated as a new tattoo service, with a minimum charge based on the studio’s current pricing.
6. Price Variation by Location
6.1. Fees and minimum retouch rates may vary depending on the city or location where the retouch is performed, particularly in the case of guest spots, collaborations, or temporary residencies. 6.2. EMME Tattooing reserves the right to adjust its pricing according to local operational costs, such as studio rent, materials, taxes, or local currency differences.
7. Acceptance of Terms
7.1. Requesting or attending a retouch session implies the client’s explicit acceptance of all the conditions set forth in this policy. 7.2. EMME Tattooing reserves the right to deny a complimentary retouch or apply the appropriate fee if the condition of the tattoo does not meet the requirements described herein.
Gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase.
They are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for cash or other payment methods.
Vouchers are single-use only. If the total amount is not redeemed in one session, the remaining balance cannot be carried forward.
Vouchers may be transferred to another person, provided the studio is notified in advance.
To confirm a booking, a bank transfer or online payment is required. The gift voucher will then be applied towards the final tattoo balance.
Vouchers are valid exclusively for fine line tattoos in the studio.
Only clients aged 18+ with valid identification will be tattooed.
In case of loss or theft, vouchers cannot be replaced.
A fine line tattoo is a style characterised by thin, delicate lines, often with minimalist details or intricate designs without heavy shading.
Fine line tattoos may not last as long as traditional bold or heavily shaded tattoos, as they use thinner lines and less ink. Their longevity depends on factors such as skin type, placement, sun exposure, and long-term aftercare. Some tattoos may fade slightly over time, but this is a natural and can be easily refreshed with a touch-up. While some people find their fine-line tattoos remain crisp for years, others may notice gradual fading, especially in high-friction areas. A touch-up is usually recommended around the three-year mark to maintain the tattoos sharpness and detail, though this timeframe can vary depending on individual skin characteristics and care routines.
The best areas to get tattooed are typically those with thicker skin and less exposure to constant friction, as this helps the tattoo to last longer. Areas such as the arms, legs, torso, ribs, and back are ideal because they provide a larger surface area for detailed designs, and the ink tends to stay more defined. These areas are less exposed to the sun, moisture, or friction, allowing the tattoo to heal more effectively with a lower risk of fading quickly. Additionally, these areas tend to have less movement and skin regeneration compared to spots like the hands or feet, contributing to better ink retention.
Hands, fingers, and feet are areas where tattoos tend to fade more quickly due to the nature of the skin in these areas. The skin is thinner, and these parts of the body experience constant friction and faster skin regeneration compared to other areas. Additionally, factors such as frequent hand washing, wearing closed shoes, sweating, and sun exposure can significantly impact how well the ink is retained.
It is essential for the client to understand that, due to these conditions, the tattoo in these areas may start to fade even during the healing process. Each person’s skin is different, so it cannot be guaranteed how the tattoo will heal or how well it will hold the ink in the long term.
The artist is not responsible for the healing process or the final result in these specific areas, as these factors are entirely dependent on each person’s body and daily habits. For this reason, the client assumes 100% responsibility when getting a tattoo in these areas and must sign a special consent form acknowledging these risks.
If the tattoo fades or loses definition over time, touch-ups can be done as necessary to restore the original design. However, the client should understand that even with touch-ups, the tattoo may not maintain the same crispness as tattoos in other parts of the body.
The sensation of getting a fine-line tattoo varies depending on each person’s pain tolerance, but many of my clients describe it as feeling similar to a cat gently scratching the skin. Generally, because fine lines use less ink and are more delicate, the pain is less intense compared to tattoos with shading or heavy filling. While it can be uncomfortable in certain areas, the sensation isn’t as sharp or intense as with other tattoo techniques. However, since everyone has a different pain threshold, it’s important to be prepared for any level of discomfort.
Aftercare is essential to ensure that your tattoo heals properly and maintains its quality over time. It’s important to understand that while the tattoo artist contributes 50% of the effort by creating quality work during the session, the other 50% depends on you, as proper post-care is crucial to achieve the best possible result. Good aftercare not only helps the tattoo heal well but also ensures that the design stays sharp and defined.
The first step is to keep the “Second Skin” layer on for 2 to 3 days after the session. This layer helps protect the tattoo as it begins the healing process. After that time, carefully remove the layer using warm water to avoid damaging the skin. Then, clean the tattoo with water and a pH-balanced, neutral soap to remove any excess ink, blood, or impurities. Make sure to dry the tattoo by gently patting it with clean paper towels or a fresh towel, avoiding any rubbing.
It’s important to leave the tattoo uncovered for 24 hours without any creams or coverings, allowing the skin to breathe and continue its natural healing process. After this time, start applying a tattoo-specific cream twice a day for 10 days. The layer of cream should be very thin to avoid suffocating the skin and preventing it from breathing properly.
Additionally, it’s vital to keep the skin moisturized during the healing process. Apply a moisturizing cream daily, and when exposed to the sun, use sunscreen to protect the tattoo from direct sunlight, especially during summer. This will help prevent the tattoo from fading and ensure it stays in excellent condition for years to come. Remember, good aftercare is key to keeping your tattoo looking beautiful and properly healed.
The outer skin typically heals in about 7-14 days, but full healing can take up to a month.
Yes, it is possible to do a touch-up on your tattoo if necessary, but it is essential that you send a photo of the tattoo to the tattoo artist within 30 days after the session. This will allow her to assess the tattoo’s condition and determine if a touch-up is truly needed. Often, clients think their tattoo needs a touch-up, but it’s important to note that if it isn’t necessary and extra ink is added, there’s a risk that the tattoo could expand, potentially affecting the quality of the fine line design. Fine lines require a specific healing process, and if unnecessary ink is added, the tattoo may lose the definition and sharpness expected. Additionally, it’s important to remember that fine line tattoos should always heal with a light grey tone due to the lower concentration of ink used. For this reason, it is crucial to follow the tattoo artist’s recommendations, as their experience and judgment are key to ensuring the tattoo heals optimally.
If the tattoo artist determines that no touch-up is necessary, it’s best to follow her advice to allow the tattoo to heal correctly. However, if you choose not to proceed with the recommended touch-up, a charge will apply for a minimum touch-up, depending on the tattoo size, and you will need to consult with the tattoo artist.
If the touch-up is done after six months, it will be charged at the minimum price for a tattoo. If two to three years have passed, the touch-up will be charged as a new tattoo, as changes in the skin over time can make the process more complex and may require additional details or adjustments. This is because skin ages, stretches, and changes over time, which can affect both the appearance and healing of the original tattoo.
Taking care of your skin is essential for achieving good tattoo results and maintaining them in excellent condition over time. Well-hydrated skin is crucial, so it’s important to drink enough water daily to keep your skin flexible and healthy. Additionally, using sunscreen regularly is vital to protect your skin from the damage caused by sun exposure, as UV rays can fade tattoos over time. Keeping your skin hydrated and protected helps preserve the health of your tattoos, ensuring the design stays sharp and vibrant for many years.
Before getting a tattoo, it is important that the skin is in good condition to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. If a person has conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, or other skin diseases that cause irritation, redness, or inflammation, it is not recommended to get tattooed until the skin has fully healed. These conditions can affect the quality of the tattoo, cause infections, or hinder the healing process. The optimal skin for tattooing is healthy, free from wounds, irritations, or infections, and does not have any active skin conditions. If you have concerns about the condition of your skin, it’s best to consult a dermatologist before getting a tattoo. This will ensure that the procedure is safe and that the tattoo heals properly.
The minimum recommended time to wait before tattooing over a scar is two years. This ensures that the scar is fully healed and that the skin has regained its normal elasticity and texture. Getting a tattoo before this time can increase the risk of complications, such as improper healing or alterations in the tattoo’s design. Additionally, scars can react differently to ink, so it’s important to give the skin enough time to heal before subjecting it to a tattoo. It’s advised to consult with a professional tattoo artist to assess the condition of the scar before proceeding.
Since we primarily work with very fine lines, we unfortunately find it impossible to cover up existing tattoos. With an old-school style, it's almost impossible to cover even dark tattoos, as you can use different colors and gradients to distract from the old underlying outline. However, in many cases, this also requires a lot of ink.
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