Why limit happy hour to just drinks when you can get inked at a discount? At Solana Tattoo in Fort Collins , we don’t just have one happy hour—we have two happy hours, three days a week! Every Tuesday through Thursday from noon-2 p.m. , you can get tattooed by our talented artists for just $130/hour instead of $150/hour —that’s $20 in savings per hour  while still getting the same top-tier craftsmanship and service we’re known for. Quality Tattoos at a Discount – No Compromises We believe that affordability shouldn’t come at the expense of quality. Being located so close to the CSU campus, we want to be accessible to everyone. After all, this shop is run by a Colorado State University grad; we know how expensive college is, but we also know this is the time to begin to own your body and life. Our Happy Hour tattoo discount is designed to make tattoos more accessible while maintaining our high standards. Whether you're a first-timer looking for "budget-friendly tattoos near me " or a seasoned ink collector searching for the " best tattoo deals near me ," this is your chance to get inked for less without cutting corners on quality. Our artists are dedicated to delivering stunning, long-lasting tattoos, even when we run deals. As top-rated tattoo artists in Fort Collins , we ensure that every piece is crafted with precision, creativity, and care. Better Than Booze—Happy Hour That Lasts a Lifetime Unlike a bar tab, your happy hour with us leaves you with art you’ll love forever. No hangovers to worry about. Enjoy quality tattoos at a discount and walk away with something meaningful. Book Your Happy Hour Tattoo Today! Walk-ins are welcome, but planning ahead ensures you lock in your spot! Appointments during Solana Tattoo happy hour pricing fill up quickly, so don’t miss out on our new tattoo & piercing deal. We recommend calling or booking an appointment online . Need help? Shoot us a message at solanatattoo@gmail.com and we are happy to help. Follow Solana Tattoo on Instagram for more updates, promotions, and tattoo inspiration. Terms & Conditions: Some artists may not be included in the happy hour discount—check before booking if you want a specific artist. Not all artists are participating. Moe and Liv are excluded from this promotion. Available Tuesday-Thursday from 12 p.m.-2 p.m. only. Discount applies to hourly tattoo rates only. This year, affordable tattoo pricing in Fort Collins just got even better. Book your appointment today and celebrate with ink instead of drinks!

Getting a new piercing is exciting, and part of the fun is choosing beautiful, high-quality jewelry.  At Solana, we use only surgical-grade, internally threaded jewelry — among the safest and most secure in the industry — applied by some of the best piercers in the state (and beyond). So when someone comes back saying, “My jewelry fell out!” it’s rarely because of the jewelry or the piercing itself. The truth is, once you leave the studio, your piercing’s success depends heavily on how you care for it at home. Although it’s extremely rare, even the best jewelry can loosen or fall out if it’s handled incorrectly. That’s not something to be embarrassed about; it’s simply part of learning how to live with and care for a new piercing. The good news is that with the right habits, you can easily avoid these issues. And we are here to help! Let’s look at the most common reasons jewelry falls out, and how you can prevent it from happening. Biz prepping a piercing Common Reasons Piercing Jewelry Falls Out 1. Cleaning Too Aggressively Piercings need to be cleaned regularly, but if you scrub, twist, or move the jewelry too much during cleaning, it can cause the threaded ball or end to loosen. Remember: The goal is to keep the piercing clean, not to move the jewelry around. Gentle soaks and careful rinsing are best. 2. Over-Handling the Piercing It’s tempting to touch or play with new jewelry, especially when it feels unfamiliar. But constantly twisting, turning, or checking the ends can work them loose. Think of it like constantly fiddling with a screw; it eventually backs out. Or like a jar lid. Keep turning it back and forth and it eventually works loose.  Instead, trust your jewelry and only check it occasionally. The less you handle your piercing, the more secure it will stay. 3. Sleeping and Snagging Pillows, blankets, hair, towels, and clothing can all catch on your jewelry while you’re sleeping or moving around. Even small snags can loosen the threading. If you’re a side sleeper, consider using a travel pillow (with your ear in the middle) to reduce pressure on ear piercings while they heal. 4. Natural Movement Your body is in constant motion. Oral piercings move as you eat or talk, nose piercings shift when you smile or blow your nose, and navel piercings bend with every movement of your torso. All of that motion puts stress on the jewelry, and over time, it could loosen if you’re not checking it occasionally. 5. Over-Tightening or Improper Tightening Sometimes people try to “fix” loose jewelry by twisting the ball tighter than necessary. But forcing it or turning it back and forth can actually strip the threads or make it easier to unscrew. Piercing jewelry doesn’t need to be wrenched down — just snug enough to stay put. How to Prevent Jewelry From Falling Out Clean gently. Use the aftercare solution recommended by your piercer. Avoid alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or anything harsh. Never twist the jewelry while cleaning. Handle with care. Wash your hands before touching your piercing, and avoid unnecessary fiddling. Check occasionally. Once or twice a week, with clean hands, gently make sure the threaded ball or end is still snug. That’s enough. You don’t need to do it constantly. Be mindful of sleeping and clothing. Use a travel pillow, avoid tight clothing around body piercings, and take extra care when drying off with a towel. Ask your piercer for help. If you ever feel unsure about your jewelry’s fit, stop by the studio. Your piercer can check it for you and re-tighten it properly. Adam doing an ear piercing A Shared Responsibility It’s important to understand that once you leave the piercing studio, it is extremely rare for quality jewelry to just fall out. We’ve taken every step to set you up for success with safe, professional piercing techniques and top-of-the-line jewelry. What happens next is all about aftercare and awareness in your day-to-day life. If you keep your aftercare routine gentle, avoid unnecessary handling, and check your jewelry once in a while, you’ll drastically reduce the chances of losing it. Your piercing deserves patience, and with the right attention, it will heal beautifully, and your jewelry will stay secure right where it belongs.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to get that next (or first) tattoo, this is it. Every month, Solana Tattoo and Piercing Shop in Fort Collins, Colorado, hosts Flash Friday — a one-day event with exclusive, ready-to-go flash tattoo designs  at limited-time prices. It’s first come, first served — and worth showing up early. Here’s what you can expect at the Flash Friday Tattoo Sale 🎯 Tattoos starting at just $60 🔥 Brand-new Flash Friday tattoo designs are $50 (or more) off 💥 All previously released flash is 10% off ✨ Piercings start at $25 per hole — internally threaded jewelry included Our Flash Friday tattoo sale features hand-drawn flash by our in-house artists, released the week of the event. The flash changes monthly, so there’s always something new on the wall. Think fine line tattoos, bold traditionals, quirky symbols, small tattoo ideas with personality, celestial pieces, nature motifs, vintage inspo, and a few unexpected or surprising designs that always get attention. It’s walk-in only on Flash Friday, so here’s how it works: Show up early  – lines form before we open Get on the list  – first come, first served Pick your flash  – choose from current or past designs Get inked  – and leave happy Wondering if you can book a Flash Friday tattoo appointment? You can’t — all tattoos on the day are walk-in only. But you can  book any Flash Friday design (current month's or past) for another day. Just note: the Flash Friday tattoo sale pricing only applies on the day of the event. To schedule a future appointment for one of the flash designs, visit solanatattoo.com , email solanatattoo@gmail.com , or call the shop. Whether you’re a tattoo enthusiast chasing your next piece, a local looking for "tattoo deals near me," or a first-timer ready to dip a toe in, Flash Friday is the perfect mix of spontaneity, skill, and savings. Come check out the new flash, bring a friend, and grab a piercing while you're here, too. The energy is fun, welcoming, and a little addictive. But remember: It only happens the first Friday of each month — not every Friday. Spots are limited. Don’t miss out.

Tattoos are a timeless form of self-expression, but ensuring your ink stays vibrant for years requires careful consideration of placement, design, and aftercare . While tattoos are designed to be permanent, they’re still subject to the effects of time and the elements—and some placements are more prone to fading than others. Where Do Tattoos Fade the Most? Tattoos can fade over time due to factors like sun exposure, friction, and the natural aging of skin. Areas of the body that experience frequent movement and rubbing, such as the hands, fingers, feet, and elbows, are more likely to show wear over time. Additionally, tattoos on body parts that are regularly exposed to sunlight—like the forearms and shoulders—are particularly vulnerable to fading without proper sun protection. If you’re considering a tattoo in one of these areas, it’s essential to discuss placement and long-term care with your tattoo artist. Inspiring Tattoo Ideas for Men, Women, and More Tattoo designs are as varied as the people who wear them, with styles and themes evolving to match personal tastes and cultural trends. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned tattoo enthusiast, there are endless possibilities to explore. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next piece: For Men: Nature-Inspired Designs:  Mountain ranges, wolves, or trees are popular for those looking to showcase a love of the outdoors. Geometric Patterns:  Clean lines and intricate symmetry create striking visuals and pair well with larger areas like the chest or upper arm. Traditional Tattoos:  Bold, timeless designs like anchors, eagles, or daggers make a strong statement and are known for their longevity. As the saying goes, "bold will hold," making traditional tattoos an excellent choice for those who want their ink to stand the test of time. For Women: Floral Artwork:  Roses, lotus flowers, and wildflowers are perennial favorites that can be adapted to suit any size or style. Timeless Ideas:  Designs that have remained popular for decades, like swallows, hearts, or script tattoos featuring names or meaningful phrases, tend to age gracefully and stay visually appealing. Symbolic Tattoos:  Designs like crescent moons, feathers, or mandalas can hold deep personal meaning. Traditional tattoo styles can also be incorporated into these designs for added durability. Timeless Tattoo Ideas for Everyone: Classic Blackwork Designs:  Bold black tattoos, including tribal or Celtic patterns, age gracefully and resist fading. Portraits and Realism:  High-quality portrait tattoos of loved ones or icons have been a favorite for decades. Moe -- who has been tattooing for more than two decades -- is our expert on realistic tattoos. Mythical Creatures:  Dragons, phoenixes, or koi fish carry timeless symbolism and enduring appeal. Traditional American Designs:  Swallows, anchors, and nautical stars have been staples for generations. JD, Matt, and Sabrina specialize in traditional-style tattoos.  The Allure of Tiny Tattoos In recent years, tiny tattoos have captured the hearts of tattoo enthusiasts everywhere. Their subtle and minimalist nature makes them ideal for those seeking a more subtle tattoo design. Tiny tattoos often feature delicate line work, allowing for intricate details despite their small size. From meaningful symbols to short quotes or initials, these petite designs can hold significant personal value while being easily concealed. At Solana Tattoo in Fort Collins , we specialize in bringing small designs to life with precision and care. Whether you want a tiny star on your wrist or a meaningful phrase tucked behind your ear, our artists are skilled in creating designs that pack a significant impact in a small space. Fort Collins: A Creative Tattooing Destination Fort Collins has gained a reputation as a vibrant hub for tattoo artistry. The city’s tattoo community is as diverse as it is talented, offering everything from traditional styles to bold, experimental designs. With so many skilled artists and studios, it’s no wonder Fort Collins has become a go-to destination for creative tattoo work. At the heart of this thriving community is Solana Tattoo Company, a standout studio known for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional artistry. Located in the heart of Fort Collins right across from the Colorado State University campus, Solana Tattoo is a women-owned small business (run by a CSU grad) that offers a unique, high-quality, and inclusive tattoo experience. Aimee, the co-owner of Solana Tattoo Company Why Choose Solana Tattoo? As a women-owned tattoo studio, Solana Tattoo embodies the spirit of community and creativity that Fort Collins is known for. We’re proud to be part of a city that celebrates individuality and artistic expression, and we strive to provide an environment where clients feel valued and inspired. Our studio is home to a talented team that includes various skilled female tattoo artists (Alyssa, Liv, and Sabrina) and a dedicated female piercer (Biz), making Solana Tattoo a safe and welcoming space for everyone. With hundreds of five-star reviews, our reputation speaks for itself—but our passion for the craft and our connection to the community truly set us apart. Make Your Mark in Fort Collins Whether you’re drawn to tiny tattoos, bold custom pieces, or anything in between, Solana Tattoo is here to help you make your mark.  Let’s create something beautiful together.

At Solana Tattoo Company, Fort Collins, Colorado , we want to bring the heritage of flash tattoos back into the mainstream. Flash tattoos are a major part of tattoo history, so in addition to custom body art of all kinds, we think it's important to preserve this part of the art's tradition. That's why we offer Flash Fridays the first Friday of every month. But what is a flash tattoo? Simply put, flash is pre-drawn tattoo designs. Back in Sailor Jerry's days (the tattoo artist, not the rum), sailors would dock at the shore, pop into a tattoo shop, and pick a design off the wall. The designs were often maritime-themed and done in what is today known as the "traditional" style of tattooing. In Solana Tattoo Company, we hang our flash on the walls, and we also proudly display Sailor Jerry's original flash in books. Anyone can choose a flash design off the walls or from the books. On the walls, we carry a variety of famous and respected tattoo artists' work, as well as our own in-house artists' flash. Our artists release new flash sheets every month -- something you just don't see anywhere else anymore. These are tattoo designs our artists want to do but might not otherwise get to do, so it's a win-win. Our artists get to flex their creativity, and you get gorgeous designs you don't have to come up with on your own. Because let's be honest: Sometimes you don't know what you want until you see it. Not sure if flash is for you? When you browse tattoos on Pinterest and bring a design to an artist, you are essentially looking through tattoo flash; these are pre-drawn designs and ideas, just digitally. So in that, flash is far from dead. It just looks different today than it did for Sailor Jerry. We love to provide new ideas and inspiration for you, which is why our artists are constantly coming up with something new. And we work to make it affordable for you one day a month on Flash Friday, when those new designs are massively discounted and all other flash on the walls and books is 10% off. Every month. Legacy matters. And traditional tattoo flash is timeless. When you wear a piece of flash from our walls, you are wearing a part of tattoo history, as well as what it means to you personally. You are a part of something bigger.

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to start thinking about gifts that go beyond the ordinary – like our first-ever holiday tattoo and piercing gift discount. No more stockings filled with candy, socks, and maybe a bottle of wine that they’ll drink and forget about. This year, stuff your loved one’s stockings with a truly unforgettable present that will last a lifetime: a tattoo or piercing.  Solana Tattoo Company in Fort Collins, Colorado, has an incredible holiday offer for 2024 that you don’t want to miss: a special deal on gift deposits with a 10% bonus.  This is the first time we’ve ever offered a promotion like this, making it an amazing opportunity to give the gift of art and self-expression while also saving money. The catch? This is a limited-time offer. It starts in November 2024 and ends on December 20, 2024.  Tattoo Gift Deposit Promotion Here’s how it works: For every dollar you put on a deposit toward a tattoo gift, the recipient will get an extra 10% in value. For example, deposit $100, and they’ll get $110 in tattoo credit. Or get an extra $50 on a $500 tattoo. The bigger the deposit, the bigger the amount of money saved.  It’s a simple yet powerful way to add a little extra to your holiday gift, while giving your loved ones something truly personal. (And hey, who are we to say you can’t give a gift to yourself? Santa told us you can.)  Solana’s skilled tattoo artists are well-known for their expertise in creating designs that bring your vision to life. From intricate fine-line tattoos to bold, vibrant pieces, our team is dedicated to delivering top-quality art in a welcoming environment.  This holiday season, why not give the gift of creativity and self-expression? Our Fort Collins tattoo shop holiday special makes it easier than ever to snag a meaningful, one-of-a-kind present from November through December 20. Piercing Shop Holiday Deals In addition to our tattoo gift deposit promotion, we’re also offering fantastic deals on piercings.  If you’re searching for a unique gift that’s outside the box, a gift deposit for piercings will add a little sparkle under the tree. Piercings make for a fun and thoughtful holiday surprise. Don’t miss our huge selection of high-quality, internally threaded jewelry to add to the package. We are also happy to place custom orders if you want to gift a specific style.  At Solana Tattoo Company, we pride ourselves on maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and safety. Our professional piercers ensure that every procedure is done with precision and care, providing a comfortable experience for all of our clients.  Whether it’s a new ear piercing, a septum, or something a bit more adventurous, our Fort Collins piercing shop makes it easy to give the gift of self-expression in a safe and welcoming environment. There’s a reason we’re rated 4.9 stars out of 5 on Google.  Don’t Miss Out on These Holiday Specials Here’s how to get the hook-up:   Stop by Solana Tattoo Company at 1119 W. Elizabeth St. in Fort Collins, Colorado — right across the street from Colorado State University at the corner of Elizabeth and Shields.  Give us a call at (970) 666-4842 Fill out an online form at www.solanatattoo.com/contact  and we will get back to you quickly. Pro tip: You can also sign up at the bottom of this page for more exclusive deals and discounts. Email us at solanatattoo@gmail.com . Message us on Instagram at @solanatattoo . You can message us on Facebook at Solana Tattoo too, but our response times are slower there. Procrastinators, remember: These promotions are only available for a limited time— from November through December 20.  (We don’t know if we can convince the boss to do this again next year.) Make sure to follow us on Instagram at  @solanatattoo  and like us on Facebook at  Solana Tattoo  to stay up to date on all of our latest deals and offers. Don’t miss out on this chance to save money while giving a unique and memorable holiday gift.  Celebrate the season of giving with Solana Tattoo Company’s tattoo holiday special and piercing holiday deals – whether you’re on the Nice List or the naughty one. We don’t judge.

By J.D. Markwardt I have been in tattoo shops for more than 14 years at this point. I get to meet people from all walks of life. Many of you are bold and confident, some of you are shy and unsure of whether they should be in this place to begin with. But not many of you know how to ask for what you want. One of the most repeated questions I get is "How much for a tattoo?" One of my mentors always liked to follow that question up with "How much is a bag of groceries?" Then he would stare blankly at the client and most often, they would get it. Without the sarcasm, this is actually a pretty good answer. I know I have walked out of the grocery store with a single bag containing an item or two, wondering how I spent $200. I have also walked out with a cart packed full, able to use the change I found between the seats of my car. The same logic can be applied to tattoos. It really depends on what you put into them. So how much does a tattoo cost? Let's talk about the variables. First and foremost, you have the tattoo artist. They are probably going to be the biggest variable. You may wonder why one artist costs a little more than the next, or why one artist charges by the piece while another is charging by the hour. Typically this is going to be broken down into: experience speed and, of course, demand. A more experienced tattoo artist will likely have a much better system in place to get you in and out of the door quickly and hopefully with as little pain as possible. Experience will also likely enhance the next category. But keep in mind, you don't want an artist who is in a rush -- not if you are looking for the highest quality. Some artists do just move a little faster. With proper technique, tattooers with a faster hand speed can get the saturation they want. The specific variables here would take a novel to explain in depth. But just like with any other job, we all have our own movements and systems that will affect how fast a job can get done properly. Your tattoo design Now that you have your artist picked out, you gotta tell them what you want. Your design is going to be the next biggest variable. With an endless possibility of designs, a tattoo can cost as little as that shop's minimum (typically around $100) up to 10s of thousands. After all, it is art. You wouldn't expect to walk into a downtown art gallery and pay the same for an original piece of work from a master artist as you would to get a stamped print from the guy selling his stuff on the beach. Once an artist has an idea of what style you are looking for, they can help you navigate the different options and ways to fit a design into a certain price point. Your tattoo's size Size matters. That and placement. If you are trying to cover your upper back in all black tribal, the larger it is, the longer it will take. Makes sense right? "But my buddy got a back tattoo that was half the size! And he paid just as much as I did. What's that about?" This gets a little complicated, but to keep it short, there were probably more small and detailed areas in your design that eat up time. It's kind of like painting a house. You can use a big roller or sprayer and get a lot of paint on the walls really fast, but when you switch to cutting in the edges with a 2" paint brush, you aren't spreading as much paint, but it takes you longer. What else affects the cost of a tattoo? Okay, maybe the artist isn't the biggest variable. If we are being honest, it's the other human that really affects things. It's really all about the person getting the tattoo. Yeah, you. Skin health and type are a major factor in the cost of your tattoo. And most importantly, whether you can sit still and handle the pain. If the client is healthy and comes in and can sit still and stand the pain, the artist can focus on the task at hand and get you in and out. Some skin types and conditions are out of our control, but they do dictate how well the body takes the ink. Coming to your appointment in the healthiest state you can will only help. The bottom line: What does a tattoo cost? Once you add all the variables, divide twice and multiply by the x factor, you finally get a price. In the Fort Collins and Northern Colorado area, most tattoo places base pricing off of a median $150 per hour price point. Some charge more or less. Ultimately, don't be afraid to ask more, in-depth questions to better help you understand what you are paying for. If the price seems outrageous compared to what other people are paying, chances are one of the humans in the interaction are being a dick. Reassess and make sure it's not you. If it's not, find yourself a new tattoo artist, and you will probably find a new price. If the price doesn't change, reassess again.

So, you want a tattoo . You've thought about it for a while. Let's do this thing. What now? Getting your first tattoo may seem intimidating if you don't know what to expect. So let's remove the mystery for you. Here's the process of getting a first tattoo. Book a consultation. If you know what you want or have a pretty good idea, book a consultation online , call to book a consultation (720-209-6238), or just come in: 1119 W. Elizabeth St., Fort Collins. We welcome walk-ins and should always have someone to help you at the front desk. If you're not sure what tattoo you want, here's an article to help you decide: " How to Pick a Tattoo ." Talk to an artist at the consultation. At your consultation, you will chat with a tattoo artist about your design ideas, where you want it, and other details. You can request a specific artist, if you vibe with someone's style, or you can talk with whoever is available. Note: All of our artists are trained and certified in safe and proper blood-borne pathogen handling (this is above and beyond the enforced requirements), as well as experienced and passionate artists, so you can't go wrong. At your consultation, you will also get a price quote. The price of the tattoo has a ton of variables. Our shop minimum is $80. Here's more about how much a tattoo costs . You will also book your appointment at the consultation. You may be able to get your tattoo that day, depending on the complexity of your tattoo design and the artists' schedule. The artist will design you a custom tattoo. If you want a custom tattoo and it requires a little time to prepare, the artist will work on your design and send you a draft for your approval. This specific process depends on the artist, but it is generally good etiquette to tell your artist all specific details you want up front before they spend hours drawing your piece. The artist does not get paid for the drawing time, although there may be a charge for excessive redraw requests and extra complex designs that demand a lot of back and forth and drafts. The day of your appointment. At your appointment, the artist will make a stencil (sort of like a temporary tattoo) of your design and put it on your body, so you will get an idea of what it will look like before you actually get tattooed. You may want to make it bigger, smaller, or move it a little. You generally do not make design changes/choices at the point; this is more about the placement of the completed design. For more information on how to prepare for your tattoo appointment, check out this story . Sit back and relax. Or try to relax. That's it! The rest is the artist's job. All you gotta do is hold still and relax. The more relaxed you are, the less it hurts, swear. Bring a good binge-worthy Netflix show to watch with headphones or bring a friend to keep your mind busy. You did it. Easy as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.

By Adam Lopez Body piercing, which is a form of body modification, is the practice of puncturing or cutting a part of the human body, creating an opening in which jewelry may be worn, or where an implant could be inserted. The word "piercing "can refer to the act or practice of body piercing, or to an opening in the body created by this act or practice. It can also, by metonymy, refer to the resulting decoration, or to the decorative jewelry used. Piercing implants alter body and/or skin profile and appearance (e.g. golden threads installed subdermal, platinum, titanium, or medical-grade steel subdermal implants). Although the history of body piercing is obscured by popular misinformation and by a lack of scholarly reference, ample evidence exists to document that it has been practiced in various forms by multiple sexes since ancient times throughout the world. Body piercing can be performed on people of all ages -- controversial, particularly when applied to youth. The display or placement of piercings have been restricted by schools, employers, and religious groups. In spite of the controversy, some people have practiced extreme forms of body piercing, with Guinness bestowing World Records on individuals with hundreds and even thousands of permanent and temporary piercings. Contemporary body piercing practices emphasize the use of safe body piercing materials, frequently utilizing specialized tools developed for the purpose. Body piercing is an invasive procedure with some risks, including allergic reaction, infection, excessive scarring, and unanticipated physical injuries, but such precautions as sanitary piercing procedures and careful aftercare are emphasized to minimize the likelihood of encountering serious problems. The healing time required for a body piercing may vary widely according to placement, from as little as a month for some genital piercings.

Summer is a time for fun, adventure, and self-expression. For many, this includes getting a new tattoo. However, the warm weather and increased sun exposure require extra care and attention to ensure your new ink heals properly and stays vibrant. Here’s a guide to getting a tattoo in the summer, covering everything from pre-tattoo considerations to aftercare and protection for new and old tattoos . Pre-Tattoo Considerations in the Summer 1. Sunburn: A No-Go for Tattoos Before heading to your tattoo appointment, it's crucial to avoid sunburn. Tattooing over sunburned skin is extremely painful and can lead to poor healing and potential damage to the skin and the tattoo. If you're planning on getting inked, keep your skin protected from the sun in the days leading up to your appointment. Use high-SPF sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade to keep your skin in optimal condition for tattooing. 2. Hydration: Key to a Better Experience Staying hydrated is essential for your overall health and plays a significant role in how well your skin handles the tattoo process. Well-hydrated skin is more resilient and can handle the stress of tattooing better than dry, dehydrated skin. Make sure to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment and on the day itself. 3. Dressing for Comfort On the day of your tattoo, wear cool, breathable clothing. Not only will this help you stay comfortable during the process, but it will also be easier to remove or adjust clothing to give your tattoo artist access to the area being tattooed. Loose clothing will also prevent rubbing against the fresh tattoo afterward, reducing the risk of irritation and infection. During and Tattoo Aftercare Tips 1. Sun Exposure: The Enemy of Fresh Tattoos Sun exposure can be incredibly harmful to a fresh tattoo. UV rays can cause the ink to fade and increase the risk of complications such as infections and prolonged healing times. After getting your tattoo, keep it covered with clothing or sterile derm when you’re outside. Even after you remove the derm, continue to protect your tattoo from direct sunlight. 2. Keeping Cool and Comfortable After getting a tattoo, it’s important to keep the area cool and dry. Avoid activities that will cause excessive sweating, as this can irritate the tattoo and introduce bacteria. Choose breathable fabrics that won’t stick to your skin and aggravate the tattooed area. 3. The Importance of Aftercare Proper aftercare is crucial for the healing process of a new tattoo. Follow your tattoo artist’s instructions carefully, which usually include gently washing the tattoo with mild soap and water, applying a thin layer of moisturizing lotion or a specific aftercare product, and avoiding scratching or picking at the tattoo. Consistent aftercare helps prevent infections and ensures your tattoo heals beautifully. 4. Hot Tubs, Pools, and Lakes: No-Go Zones During the healing process, typically the first two to four weeks, avoid submerging your tattoo in water. This means no swimming in pools, lakes, or the ocean, and no soaking in hot tubs or baths. Immersing a new tattoo in water can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Stick to quick showers to keep the area clean without soaking it. 5. Sunbathing and Traveling with a New Tattoo Sunbathing with a new tattoo is not recommended. The sun can cause severe damage to a fresh tattoo, leading to fading and increased healing time. If you’re traveling, plan your tattoo appointment accordingly. If you must travel with a fresh tattoo, make sure you have all the necessary aftercare supplies with you and continue to protect the tattoo from sun exposure and dirty environments. Long-Term Tattoo Care and Protection 1. The Role of SPF Even after your tattoo has fully healed, protecting it from the sun is essential to maintain its appearance. UV rays can cause tattoos to fade over time, so apply a high-SPF sunscreen to your tattoos whenever they’re exposed to the sun. Make this a daily habit, especially in the summer when sun exposure is more intense. 2. Seeking Shade Whenever possible, seek shade to protect your tattoos from direct sunlight. Whether you’re at the beach, park, or just out and about, try to stay in the shade to minimize sun exposure. This not only protects your tattoos but also helps prevent sunburn and skin damage. 3. Moisturizing Regularly Keeping your skin moisturized is key to maintaining the vibrancy of your tattoos. Use a high-quality, fragrance-free moisturizing lotion daily to keep your skin hydrated and your tattoos looking their best. Hydrated skin helps keep the tattoo’s colors sharp and reduces the appearance of aging. 4. Protective Clothing Wearing protective clothing can also help shield your tattoos from the sun. Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and other protective gear can provide an extra layer of protection against UV rays. Bottom Line Getting a tattoo in the summer requires some extra precautions, but with the right care and attention, you can ensure your new ink heals properly and stays vibrant. Remember to avoid sunburn before your appointment, stay hydrated, and wear comfortable clothing. After getting your tattoo, protect it from sun exposure, keep it cool and dry, and follow your aftercare instructions diligently. Avoid swimming and sunbathing until it’s fully healed, and take extra care when traveling. For both new and old tattoos, regular use of SPF, seeking shade, moisturizing, and wearing protective clothing will help maintain their beauty for years to come. With these tips, you can confidently get a tattoo in the summer and enjoy your new art with pride.

Here is a look at some common health and safety questions about Solana Tattoo Company . We aim to be the cleanest and safest shop in Colorado. What is the training/experience of your artists? All of our tattoo artists have different levels of experience and come from different backgrounds but all are well trained and up to date on blood-borne pathogen training and certifications. Requiring all artists are certified in blood-borne pathogen handling is beyond the requirements from the state and not something every shop offers. Are your artists required to wear gloves? For your safety as well as our own, gloves are worn during all procedures.  Are all the needles from sealed containers and are pigment trays new? All needles are single use and come pre-sterilized from the manufacturer. Pigment trays and ink caps are all single use, as well.  Do you have a sterilization machine to clean reusable equipment? We utilize a medical grade Tuttnauer autoclave that is spore-tested quarterly. Where do your inks come from?   Each artist uses their own selection of inks, but they all come from major, well-known brands such as Eternal , Solid , and Dynamic , as well as others. Which brand depends on the pigment selection and use.

This ain't your grandma's single earlobe piercing. There are so many creative and expressive ways to pierce your body. You may have heard some of these terms but didn't know what they meant. Or maybe you didn't realize all of the different options for adding a little bling to your life. Here's a look at some of the many different types of piercings. With our highly experienced and precise piercers, we can do anything and everything you can dream up at Solana Tattoo Company . Types of Ear Piercings Here are some of the different types of ear piercings . Types of Face Piercings Here's a look at some common face piercings (graphic by Barberdts.com). Types of Oral Piercings Mouth and tongue piercings get their own shout-out. This graphic also comes from Barberdts.com. Types of Nose Piercings Not only are there many different placements for nose piercings, but there are a ton of creative jewelry options. (Some of these repeat from the face piercings list.) Types of Body Piercings Below the neck, there are a ton of piercing options. Here are just a few of them. This image comes from Pierced.com. There are many more piercing options than just these -- if you have an idea, let's chat!