Faq's

Client Questions

Questions & Answers

We believe in complete transparency. Select a category below to find answers to our most common inquiries regarding bookings, safety, and the tattooing process.

Do you take walk-ins or is it appointment only?

To give every client our undivided attention, Inkova operates strictly by appointment. This ensures a private, unhurried experience focused entirely on creating custom art without the interruptions of a standard street shop.

Do you require a deposit to secure a booking?

Yes. We require a $100 to $300 non-refundable deposit (depending on the scale of the piece) to secure your appointment date. This entire amount is applied directly to the final cost of your tattoo. This ensures our artists’ custom drafting time is protected.

What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?

We require exactly 48 hours’ notice to reschedule an appointment without losing your deposit. If you cancel or reschedule within the 48-hour window, your deposit is forfeited and a new deposit will be required to book again.

How do I get an accurate quote for my idea?

Because custom tattoos vary drastically based on size, detail, and anatomical placement, we cannot give exact quotes over the phone or email. We highly recommend booking a free 30-minute consultation so our artist can assess your canvas and give you a perfectly accurate estimate.

How should I prepare physically for my session?

Get a full night of sleep, eat a solid, nutrient-rich meal 1-2 hours beforehand, and drink plenty of water. Please shower and arrive with clean skin. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed.

Are there things I should avoid before getting tattooed?

Absolutely. Avoid alcohol and heavy caffeine for 24 hours prior, as they thin your blood and can cause heavy bleeding, which pushes ink out of the skin. Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen. Also, avoid excessive sun exposure or sunburns on the area to be tattooed.

When do I get to see my final design?

Due to our high volume of custom work and to prevent art theft, designs are not emailed in advance. You will view the finalized design in person on the day of your session. Minor adjustments can easily be made on the spot before any stenciling begins.

Do you offer numbing creams?

We do offer a clinical-grade secondary numbing protocol that can be applied once the skin is open (during the session). However, we strongly advise against clients applying their own pre-numbing creams, as some brands severely alter skin texture and compromise the quality of the tattoo.

How long does a tattoo take to heal?

The surface layers of the skin usually heal within 2 to 3 weeks. However, it takes about 2 to 3 months for the deeper layers of skin to completely regenerate and for the ink to fully settle into its final appearance.

Can I swim or go to the gym after my session?

No. You must avoid completely submerging your new tattoo in water (pools, oceans, baths, hot tubs) for at least 3 weeks to prevent severe bacterial infections. Heavy sweating at the gym should also be avoided for the first 5-7 days.

Are touch-ups free?

We guarantee our work. Every custom piece includes one complimentary touch-up session, provided it is booked within 6 months of the original appointment and you have strictly followed our aftercare instructions.