Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most common questions I get about tattoo cover-ups, scar work, booking, and healing. If you don’t see your question here, you can always reach out through my contact form — I’m happy to help!

General / About the Process

A cover-up is when a new tattoo is designed to conceal or transform an existing one. The new artwork is carefully planned so it looks intentional, balanced, and uniquely you — not like something that’s “hiding” an old piece.

Sometimes, yes. If the existing tattoo is very dark, heavily saturated, or placed in a tricky area, it might need to be lightened first with laser before I can create something that truly looks great. I’ll always be honest and recommend the best approach for your skin and goals.

Not always! Many tattoos can be covered beautifully without any laser treatment. But if your old tattoo is very dense or dark, a few lightening sessions can open up more creative design options.

In some cases, a faint trace of the old tattoo might remain visible under certain light or as your skin heals — especially if the original tattoo was extremely bold. My goal is to design your new piece so it naturally draws the eye to the new artwork, not what’s underneath.

Usually, the new design needs to be a bit larger or include deeper shading to fully mask the old one. This helps everything flow and look cohesive rather than forced.

Scar & Camouflage Work

Yes, often! It depends on how old and healed the scar is, and the type of scar tissue. Some areas take ink beautifully, others may require a bit of testing first. Every situation is unique, and I’ll walk you through what’s possible during your consultation.

It’s best to wait until the scar has fully matured — usually 6 to 12 months, sometimes up to 18. This gives your skin time to settle so the tattoo heals evenly and looks smooth.

It varies from person to person. Some scar tissue is less sensitive, while other areas can feel more tender. I always go at your pace and make sure you’re as comfortable as possible throughout the process.

The goal is for your tattoo to flow naturally with the rest of your skin. With careful color blending, shading, and placement, the result can look beautifully balanced and empowering.

Scar work sometimes takes more than one session — usually two or three — to build even color and texture. We’ll plan it together based on how your skin responds.

Booking, Payment & Logistics

You can fill out the quote form on my website and include clear photos of the area you want done. Tell me a bit about your ideas, and I’ll get back to you with thoughts, an estimate, and next steps.

Yes! Deposits secure your spot and go toward your final total. Once your deposit is received, we’ll confirm your date and start designing your piece together.

That just means my booking list is temporarily full. You can still reach out — I keep a waitlist and often open new slots soon. I’ll make sure you know when availability returns!

Aftercare & Healing

I’ll give you detailed aftercare instructions specific to your piece, but generally: keep the area clean and lightly moisturized, avoid soaking, sun exposure, or scratching, and let it heal naturally. Following aftercare closely helps your tattoo heal vibrant and smooth.

Most tattoos take 4–6 weeks to fully heal. During that time, the skin may flake or look slightly dull — that’s totally normal. Once healed, the colors will settle beautifully, and we’ll review if a touch-up is needed.

Sometimes, yes. Especially for cover-ups or scar work, a follow-up session helps make everything blend perfectly. We’ll plan that once your skin has fully healed.

Miscellaneous / Practical

Occasionally! If you’re outside my main studio area and want to work together, send me a message — I sometimes accept guest sessions or travel bookings depending on timing.

I completely understand that life happens. Just let me know as soon as possible so we can adjust your date. My cancellation and reschedule policy is listed when you book — and I’m always happy to work with you when you communicate early.

Absolutely — when done properly! I follow strict hygiene standards and use only professional, sterile equipment and pigments. If you have allergies, sensitivities, or medical concerns, please let me know before your appointment so we can take the right precautions together.

Still have questions? No problem! You can contact me anytime to Contact@ChristinaTattooMe.com — I’m here to support you and make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way.