FAQ – Painted Lotus Tattoo – award winning & experienced custom tattooing since 2009 | Voted Victoria's Best Tattoo Shop! Walk-ins always welcome by availability.

How do I book an appointment at Painted Lotus Studios?

What is your recommended aftercare routine?

What are your shop policies?

Find our shop policies here: Painted Lotus Shop Policies
To ensure a happy and healthy artist-client relationship we will keep conversations free of triggering topics (or ask consent beforehand).
- Since these topics differ for everyone, know that we will respect your boundaries should you ask not to talk about something. We ask that you do the same for us. Many people feel safe to be open while getting tattooed, and that’s great, but know that we may not always be emotionally equipped to take on heavy topics while at work.

How much do you charge?

Our shop rates are as follows:
- $190 per hour (plus tax, plus a once-per-session set up fee of $20)
- Minimum charge = $180 (all in)

What payment methods do you accept?

What is the weight limit on the client massage tables?

Are tattoos safe?

Yes- if done properly by the right people. Painted Lotus Studios goes beyond expectations and is dedicated to providing each and every client with a personalized experience in a clean and safe environment. We practice the highest standards in Principles of Infection Control and Sterilization, with certification to prove it.
- We have had no health board violations since opening, and we maintain a great relationship with our health inspector and health board, VIHA

How can I tell if my tattoo is infected?

If you think your tattoo might be infected, don’t sit around waiting for it to get worse! Signs of infection are pain, hot redness, swelling and/or a pus discharge (with or without the presence of blood), or a foul odor emanating from the area. Email us if you have any questions at all! We’re here to help.

Can I use some kind of numbing cream?

Not only do numbing creams dull the pain for only 30 minutes or so, when the sensation returns it is a shock to the system and the discomfort felt from being tattooed becomes more painful. Without the cream it would have been annoying and possibly even a discomfort at best, whereas with the cream the returning sensation is ten-fold what would have been felt without the use! Numbing creams also cause unresponsive skin which can result in a shallow tattoo. Therefore, we don’t recommend it and if you’ve applied it before your session, we won’t tattoo you!

What if I have a pigment allergy?

If you have any preexisting pigment allergies, or have had pigment-related food allergies in the past, please consult your physician and artist before getting your tattoo. If you’re in doubt, always speak with your physician first. These conditions are extremely rare but MUST be addressed before the tattoo process starts.

Is it true you can’t have an epidural if you have a lower back tattoo?

Some people believe that pigment (especially older ink) can contain materials that would infect or cause damage to the inside of the spine (which will be injected with a small bit of tattooed skin when administering the drugs). Some people also believe that it is too risky to do the procedure if they cannot properly find the lumbar because of ink obscuration. All in all though, this is generally considered an urban legend.

Can I donate blood if I have a tattoo?

Depending on the location you’re in, some clinics will make you wait 6 months to a year after having a tattoo done. This is to allow any possible blood borne pathogens that you can get (from unclean tattoo shops- do your research!) to incubate enough that they are visible on blood tests. Call your local donation clinic to ask about their policy.

Does a tattoo restrict physical activity?

It shouldn’t. Some people find the tattoo is a little sore for a few days afterwards which may cause some restrictions but other than that you should be perfectly normal. Be aware that rubbing clothes from physical activity can damage the tattoo while it’s healing.

Why is my tattoo peeling and flaking off?

Peeling and flaking of a new tattoo is perfectly normal. Before it actually begins to peel, the tattoo will look like it’s covered with a whitish, cracking film. Then you’ll see white or translucent flakes of old, dead skin start to peel off and some of the flakes may even contain some ink. Do not pick or scratch!

Can a mole be tattooed over?

Although moles are usually benign and we go through life ignoring them, there is always the possibility that a mole could serve as an indicator of cancer. This makes the preservation of a mole important. One of the ways a mole can indicate a problem is by changing color. If it has been tattooed over with pigment, it may hinder your ability to spot any color differences. For your safety, it is best that a mole not be tattooed over.

Can I still get a tattoo if I’m sick?

You’re going to need your strength and your white blood cells to heal your tattoo- something your body won’t be able to do if it’s already doing battle against virus and bacteria. Not to mention the fact that it’s very inconsiderate to bring your illness into the tattoo studio and risk passing the germs onto others, particularly your artist. If you have an appointment, please email your artist and reschedule for when you’re feeling well again.

Can I still get a tattoo if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

You must wait until you are 100% finished breastfeeding before getting a tattoo at our studio. You are busy making and giving a new person their start on life! If you were to get an infection it can compromise your breast milk (and possibly cause other complications) therefore it is our policy that we do not tattoo anyone who is currently pregnant or breastfeeding. No tattoo is worth the risk of your child’s health.