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Tattoo tips: What should I consider before getting a tattoo in Wellington?

Full disclosure: I may or may not have a questionable tattoo of a pūkeko on my ankle. But hey, who am I to judge? Everyone makes mistakes, especially when they’re fueled by a late-night kebab and a dare. (Let’s just say it seemed like a good idea at the time…it wasn’t.)

But that experience taught me a thing or two (or ten) about getting tattooed in Wellington. So, whether you’re a seasoned ink enthusiast or a nervous newbie, join me as I spill the tea about what you should really consider before going under the needle in the coolest little capital.

Tattoo artists and studios

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Researching the top tattoo studios and artists is your golden ticket to an ink you’ll love for a lifetime. This ensures that the final artwork will meet your expectations and be something you’ll be proud to display permanently. 

Artists often specialise in different types of tattoos, such as realism, traditional, or abstract designs. Choosing one whose portfolio aligns with your desired style is essential. 

Our article on the top tattoo studios in Wellington highlights these styles and the perks of choosing each specific studio over others. After all, you wouldn’t want to have a tattoo that you’ll desperately try to hide under a sweater.

Tattoo design and placement

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Ever heard the saying, “Location, location, location?” It applies to tattoos too, especially in the windy city of Wellington. Your tattoo’s design and placement need to be in perfect harmony. 

Consider spots like the inner arm, upper thigh, or back if you need to cover your tattoo for work. The thighs and upper arms are less painful, while ribs and ankles can be more intense. 

Think about future changes – areas prone to weight fluctuations, like the stomach and thighs, might alter over time. Tattoos on hands and feet fade faster and need more touch-ups.

Cost and budget

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Let’s face it, tattoos aren’t free. Unless you’ve got a generous artist friend with a penchant for bartering, you’ll need to fork over some cash for that masterpiece on your skin.

So, how much do tattoos cost in Wellington? On average, you can expect to pay around $150 for a small, simple design, while larger, more intricate pieces can cost five hundred to several thousand dollars. The price depends on factors like the size and complexity of the design, the experience of the artist, and more.

For a detailed breakdown of tattoo costs and what influences them, check out our article here. Trust me, a little financial planning goes a long way in avoiding the dreaded “tattoo remorse”. Remember, a good tattoo is an investment, but even investments need a budget.

Health and safety

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Remember that a tattoo needle pierces your skin, which can create a direct pathway for germs and bacteria. As such, hygiene first!

A less-than-sterile environment can lead to nasty infections, turning your dream tattoo into a painful nightmare. Think swollen skin, oozing wounds, and trips to the doctor – not exactly the Instagram-worthy experience you were hoping for. 

So, look for spotless tattoo studios in Wellington, autoclaves for sterilising equipment, and artists who follow strict hygiene protocols. Your skin will thank you, and so will your peace of mind.

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Before you storm into a tattoo parlour, remember that there’s a little thing called the law.  

How old do you have to be to get a tattoo in Wellington? While New Zealand might not have a national legal age limit for tattoos, some studios might have their own rules. They might require parental consent if you’re under 18 or even refuse to ink anyone younger than 16. 

It’s their way of keeping things legal and avoiding any unsavoury situations. So, before you start planning your ink masterpiece, do your research and find a studio that aligns with your age and legal status.

Lifestyle considerations

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Your lifestyle plays a big role in how your tattoo heals and ages. If you’re a sun worshipper, prolonged sun exposure can fade your tattoo and delay healing. So, consider tattoos on areas like your upper thighs, back, or chest, and use sunscreen once healed.

For gym rats, excessive sweating can irritate a fresh tattoo. So maybe choose spots less prone to heavy friction and sweat, like the upper arm or calf, and avoid the lower back.

High-contact areas like hands and feet heal slower and fade faster due to constant movement and rubbing. For a low-key lifestyle, places usually covered by office attire, like the inner arm or upper back, are ideal.

Pain management 

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Pain is part of the tattoo experience, but how much pain you endure depends on factors like your pain tolerance, the tattoo’s size and location, and your chosen artist’s technique. Before you brave the needle, consider your pain threshold. 

Are you a tough cookie who scoffs at discomfort or someone who winces at the thought of a paper cut? Be honest with yourself and your artist. 

They can guide you towards less sensitive areas like your outer arms or thighs and away from bony spots like your ribs or ankles. Besides, a tattoo should be a memorable experience, not a traumatic one.