Before You Book
Every cosmetic tattoo is a collaboration—between your skin, your schedule, and your artist.
Timing, prep, and healing matter. Before you book, please consider any upcoming life events, travel, or photography sessions. Most procedures involve a healing phase that includes temporary scabbing, flaking, or mild redness. You may need to apply ointment, avoid direct water contact, and follow specific aftercare protocols for several days. These steps are essential to preserve pigment, protect your skin, and ensure long-term results. If you're unsure about timing, a consultation is the perfect place to plan ahead.
📸 Photo Submissions
I always encourage clients to send clear, well-lit photos (1–2) of the area they’d like treated—whether it’s brows, lips, hairline, or scalp. This gives me insight into your unique features, skin tone, scarring, and any previous work that may affect your results. It helps me assess pigment compatibility, placement strategy, and whether correction or removal is needed before we begin. Photos save time, prevent surprises, and allow me to tailor your transformation with precision and care. You can text your photo to 775-420-7015 before or after booking—either way, it’s a valuable part of your pre-service experience.
❌ Booking Restrictions
These conditions are non-negotiable for your safety and results.
You cannot book if:
• You are under 18 years old (even with parental consent)
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You’ve taken Accutane (isotretinoin) in the past 12 months
> Accutane affects skin healing and pigment retention. If you’ve taken it—even at a low dose—you must wait until cleared by your provider. Cosmetic tattooing requires stable, resilient skin, and Accutane can compromise healing, increase sensitivity, and elevate the risk of scarring.
Recommended Waiting Periods:
• Standard dose: Wait 6–12 months after stopping
• Low dose: Wait at least 3 months, but always consult your
provider
Additional restrictions:
• You are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation (must be cleared by your oncologist)
• You have active eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis on or near the treatment area
• You are taking blood-thinning medications (unless cleared by your doctor)
• You have a bleeding disorder or autoimmune condition that affects healing (doctor’s note required)
• You’ve had recent surgery or transplant near the treatment area (must be fully healed and cleared)
• You are prone to keloid scarring
• You’ve had Botox, filler, or laser in the area within the past 2 weeks
• You have a sunburn, fresh tan, or recent UV exposure on the treatment area
• You are currently ill, feverish, or recovering from infection
• You are taking antibiotics (must wait 1–2 weeks after finishing your course)
⚠️ You may be eligible with clearance if:
• You have Type II diabetes (must be stable and controlled)
• You are taking thyroid medication (may affect pigment retention)
💋 Lip-Specific Prep
• If you’ve ever had a cold sore—even once—you must take a prescription antiviral medication before your lip tattoo appointment.
• The standard protocol is:
– 2 days before
– Day of appointment
– 2 days after
• Chapped lips are difficult to tattoo and more prone to cracking, bleeding, and poor pigment retention.
• Please keep your lips hydrated and damage-free in the days leading up to your appointment.
🧠 Scalp-Specific Prep
• Avoid coloring your hair within 7–10 days before your scalp tattoo appointment. Residual dye can stain the scalp and interfere with mapping.
• If you plan to cut, shave or buzz your head, do so before your appointment—not after.
• Avoid shaving or buzzing the area for at least 7–10 days post-procedure.
• Arrive with clean, freshly shampooed hair—you won’t be able to wash the area for several days after your appointment, and I cannot work on a scalp that’s greasy or dirty.
🧼 All Procedures: Pre-Care Checklist
This guide is here to help you feel confident, informed, and ready for your best results.
2–6 Weeks Before
• No chemical peels, microneedling, or laser resurfacing on the treatment area
• Discontinue Retin-A, retinol, retinal, and other vitamin A derivatives
• Avoid deep exfoliation (scrubs, acids, or physical exfoliants)
• Apply SPF 50+ daily to prevent sun damage and pigment disruption
• Moisturize consistently to support skin barrier and hydration
1–2 Weeks Before
• Stop using AHA/BHA products (glycolic, lactic, salicylic acid)
• No sunbeds, tanning, or self-tanner on or near the treatment zone
• Avoid waxing, shaving, or epilating the area
• Discontinue blood-thinning supplements (Vitamin E, fish oil, turmeric) unless medically necessary
• Stay well hydrated—hydrated skin retains pigment better
• Eat nourishing meals and prioritize sleep
48 Hours Before
• Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other anti-inflammatories unless prescribed
• Confirm appointment time, studio location, and allow extra time for your session
24 Hours Before
• No alcohol or caffeine
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid intense exercise or sweating
Day of Appointment
• No makeup, lotions, skincare, hair sprays, gels, or styling products on the treatment area
• No sunburn, open sores, or active breakouts
• No illness (cold, flu, fever)—your appointment will be rescheduled if you’re unwell
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Arrive on time and well-rested
• Eat before your appointment or bring a snack and drink—nourishment helps regulate blood sugar, reduce sensitivity, and keep you comfortable throughout your session
• Come in clean—freshly showered, shampooed, and free of product buildup if possible. You won’t be able to wash the tattooed area—whether it’s brows, lips, scalp, or hairline—for a few days post-procedure, so it’s best to arrive freshly washed if you can.
Final Note
Every detail in this guide is here to protect your skin, your investment, and your experience. Cosmetic tattooing is both art and science—and this is a pre-care guide, not a consultation. It’s designed to help you prepare, understand what to expect, and feel confident before booking. If you’re unsure whether you’re a candidate or want to explore your options, a formal consultation is the best next step. Consultations are always free, included with all procedures, and also available as a standalone option.