What Does Getting a Tattoo Feel Like?

Michael Hollman
It's the ultimate mystery for the non-tattooed. You've seen the incredible art, you've chosen a design, and you've found the perfect artist, but one huge, intimidating question remains: "What does...

How Badly Does an Ankle Tattoo Hurt? A Pain-Level Guide

Michael Hollman
Delicate, discreet, and perfectly placed to peek out from a pair of shoes or sandals, ankle tattoos have a timeless charm. They're a popular choice for a first tattoo or...

Is It Normal for a New Tattoo to Crack While Healing?

Michael Hollman
You’re about a week into healing your new tattoo. The initial swelling and tenderness have subsided, and your skin is starting to peel and flake off in colored specks, like...

How Long Do Watercolor Tattoos Last and How Do They Fade?

Michael Hollman
Flowing colors, soft edges, and vibrant splashes that look like they were painted directly onto the skin—it's easy to see why watercolor tattoos have become one of the most requested...

When Do Tattoos Typically Start Scabbing?

Michael Hollman
Your new tattoo has made it through the initial 48 hours of swelling and weeping. The redness is starting to calm down, and it's beginning to feel like a part...

How Long Should You Wait to Get a Tattoo Touched Up?

Michael Hollman
Your new tattoo is a few weeks old. The peeling is mostly done, the itch has finally subsided, and you're starting to see what looks like the final result. As...

What Should You Wash a New Tattoo With?

Michael Hollman
The tattoo session is over, the artist has done their incredible work, and you've made it home. You remove the initial wrap, and your new tattoo is a beautiful but...

Is Vanicream a Good Moisturizer for New Tattoos?

Michael Hollman
You’re standing in the skincare aisle, trying to make the right choice for your new tattoo. Your artist gave you the golden rule: find something gentle, effective, and completely free...

What Should You Bring to a Long Tattoo Appointment? Your Ultimate Survival Kit Checklist

Michael Hollman
You’ve booked a full-day session for your new sleeve, back piece, or other large-scale tattoo. You’ve prepared mentally for the commitment, but have you thought about the practical challenges of...

How to Find a Tattoo Artist That Matches Your Style

Michael Hollman
Let's start with the single most important truth in the world of tattoos: the most critical decision you'll make isn't the design—it's the artist. Think of it this way: you wouldn't...

How Long Should You Wait Between Tattoo Sessions?

Michael Hollman
You've just completed the first session of your new sleeve or back piece. The outline is done, it already looks amazing, and you're fired up and ready to get back...

How Long Should You Leave the Initial Bandage on Your Tattoo?

Michael Hollman
The tattoo session is over, the artist wipes down your incredible new art, and the very last thing they do is apply a clean bandage. You walk out of the...