Thinking about getting a tattoo but not sure where to start? Whether you’re planning your first tattoo or adding to your collection, it’s important to know what to expect. From legal age requirements and aftercare tips to pain levels and potential health concerns, we’ve got you covered. Our Mantra Tattoo guide answers the most common questions people have about getting a tattoo so you can feel confident before booking your appointment.

Mantra Tattoo and Piercing Contact Information

📍 Address: 1695 Wadsworth Blvd, Lakewood, CO 80214

📞 Phone: 303.239.8282

🕒 Hours:

Monday – Saturday: 11 AM – 9 PM

Sunday: 12 PM – 8 PM

💳 Payment Methods: Cash and Credit Cards

📲 Instagram: @mantratattoo | @mantratattoodenver

What Should I do Before Getting a Tattoo?

To prepare for your tattoo, make sure to:

• Stay hydrated
• Eat a healthy meal
• Avoid alcohol and blood thinners for 24 hours
• Moisturize your skin but don’t shave the area (your artist will do it)

Who Can Get a Tattoo? Age and Legal Requirements

What Age Can You Get a Tattoo?

In Colorado, you must be 18 years old to get a tattoo without parental consent. Minors who are 16 or 17 can get a tattoo with written parental consent and a parent or legal guardian present. However, some tattoo studios, may choose not to tattoo minors, even with parental approval.

At Mantra Tattoo, we follow Colorado state laws regarding tattoo age requirements. In Colorado, individuals must be 18 or older to get a tattoo without parental consent. Minors who are 16 or 17 may be eligible for a tattoo with written parental consent and a parent or legal guardian present, as long as both have valid state-issued IDs with matching last names.

If you’re wondering how old do you have to be to get a tattoo, the answer depends on state laws. Here’s how tattoo age requirements vary across the U.S.:

• California – Must be 18+; no exceptions for minors.
• Texas – Minors (under 18) can get a tattoo with parental consent, but only for medical or cosmetic reasons (like covering a scar).
• New York – Must be 18+; parental consent is not accepted under any circumstances.
• Florida – Minors must be at least 16 and have notarized parental consent.
• Illinois – Minors under 18 can only get tattooed by a physician.
• Nevada – No state law; age limits depend on local ordinances and studio policies.

If you’re under 18 and thinking about getting a tattoo, check your local regulations and visit a licensed tattoo studio that follows strict health and safety guidelines. If you’re a parent considering whether your teenager should be allowed to get a tattoo at 15 with parental consent, be aware that most reputable shops—including Mantra Tattoo—have policies against tattooing minors, even if it’s legally permitted.

Can You Donate Blood After Getting a Tattoo?

Yes, but there may be a waiting period. If your tattoo was done at a licensed studio that follows health regulations, you can usually donate blood immediately. However, if it was done at an unregulated or unlicensed facility, you may need to wait three to six months before donating.

For plasma donation, many centers require a four to six-month waiting period to reduce infection risks. Always check with your local blood bank or plasma center for their specific rules.

Health Concerns and Who Should Avoid Tattoos

Can You Get a Tattoo While Pregnant?

It’s not recommended to get a tattoo while pregnant due to the risk of infection and the added stress on your immune system. Your body is already working hard to support your baby, and healing a fresh tattoo could take longer than usual. Additionally, while the risk of ink affecting your baby is extremely low, any potential complications—such as allergic reactions or infections—are best avoided during pregnancy.

If you’re expecting, most reputable tattoo studios, including Mantra Tattoo, will advise you to wait until after your baby is born before getting a tattoo. If you’re wondering how long after giving birth can you get a tattoo, it’s best to wait at least a few months to allow your body time to fully heal.

Can You Get a Tattoo While Breastfeeding?

If you’re breastfeeding, there’s no official law against getting a tattoo, but it’s still something to approach with caution. The primary concern is infection, which, if severe, could impact your overall health. While tattoo ink doesn’t enter the bloodstream in a way that would affect breast milk, ensuring proper aftercare and going to a licensed, sterile tattoo studio is essential.

If you’re nursing and thinking about getting a tattoo, consider waiting until your baby is a little older and your body has fully recovered from childbirth.

Can Diabetics Get a Tattoo?

Yes, but diabetics should take extra precautions. Getting a tattoo can take longer to heal if your blood sugar levels are not well controlled. Slow healing increases the risk of infection, so consult your doctor before booking an appointment and let your tattoo artist know about your condition.

Can You Get a Tattoo While on Blood Thinners?

If you’re taking blood thinners, consult your doctor before getting a tattoo. Blood thinners can lead to excessive bleeding during the tattooing process, making it harder for the ink to settle and increasing healing time. Your doctor may recommend temporarily pausing your medication, but never stop taking a prescribed drug without medical approval.

Can You Get a Tattoo on Accutane?

If you’re taking Accutane, you should wait at least six months after stopping the medication before getting a tattoo. Accutane makes your skin more sensitive, increasing the risk of scarring, excessive irritation, and slow healing. If you’ve recently finished Accutane and want a tattoo, check with your doctor to ensure your skin is ready.

Can You Get a Tattoo While on Antibiotics or Sick?

If you’re taking antibiotics, wait until your prescription is finished and your body has recovered before getting a tattoo. Since antibiotics treat infections, adding the stress of healing new ink could slow recovery and increase the risk of complications.

Similarly, getting a tattoo while sick isn’t a good idea. Your immune system needs to focus on healing, and feeling unwell during a session could make the experience uncomfortable. Plus, if you’re contagious, you risk spreading germs to your tattoo artist and others in the studio.

Can I Get a Tattoo Before Surgery?

It’s best to avoid getting a tattoo right before surgery. Your immune system will be focused on healing the tattoo, which could impact your body’s ability to recover from the procedure. Most doctors recommend waiting until after you’ve fully healed from surgery before getting inked.

Can You Get a Tattoo While on Your Period?

Yes, but you may experience more sensitivity to pain. Some people report that their pain tolerance is lower during their period, so if you’re worried about discomfort, consider scheduling your tattoo appointment for a different time in your cycle.

Can Getting a Tattoo Make You Sick?

While rare, some people experience mild flu-like symptoms after getting a tattoo due to their immune system responding to the healing process. If you feel excessively unwell or notice signs of infection, consult a doctor.

Tattoo Pain and Placement

How Long Does It Take to Get a Tattoo?

Tattoo time depends on the size, detail, and placement of the design. Small tattoos can take 30 minutes to an hour, while larger or more intricate pieces may require multiple sessions over several hours.

Can You Get a Tattoo Over a Scar?

Yes, but it depends on the type and age of the scar. Some scars may hold ink well, while others, especially raised or deep scars, may not take ink evenly. If you have a scar and are considering getting a tattoo over it, consult with an experienced tattoo artist to see if it’s a good option for your skin.

What Does Getting a Tattoo Feel Like?

The sensation of getting a tattoo varies depending on the location, your pain tolerance, and the artist’s technique. Most people describe the feeling as a scratching or burning sensation. Some areas are more painful due to nerve endings and thinner skin.

Most Painful and Worst Places to Get a Tattoo

If you’re worried about tattoo pain, avoid these areas:

1. Ribs and spine – The ribs and spine are considered some of the most painful places to get a tattoo due to thin skin and a lack of muscle cushioning.
2. Hands and feet – High nerve concentration makes these areas particularly sensitive, and tattoos here tend to fade faster due to constant movement and friction.
3. Elbows and knees – Bony areas that can be uncomfortable during the process and may take longer to heal.
4. Neck and throat – While popular, neck tattoos are highly sensitive due to thin skin and high nerve endings.

If you’re looking for a less painful tattoo experience, consider areas like the upper arm, calf, forearm, or thigh—these areas have more muscle and fat, making them more tolerable. If you’re unsure, ask your tattoo artist for placement advice based on your pain tolerance and design preference.

Where Do I Go to Get a Tattoo Removed?

For safe and effective tattoo removal, go to a licensed laser removal clinic or dermatologist. Avoid at-home tattoo removal creams, as they are often ineffective and can cause skin damage.

If you’re looking to fix or cover an old tattoo, Mantra Tattoo in Denver offers professional tattoo cover-ups. Whether you need a fresh start or want to improve an old design, our experienced artists can work with you to create a new piece that fits your vision. Not all tattoos can be fully covered without a laser removal session first, so book a consultation with our artists to discuss your options.

Tattoo Aftercare and Healing

Can You Sweat After Getting a Tattoo?

Sweating itself won’t ruin your tattoo, but excessive moisture, friction, and bacteria from workouts can cause irritation. It’s best to avoid intense exercise for the first 48 hours after getting a tattoo to allow proper healing. If your tattoo is in a high-friction area (like the ribs, thighs, or underarms), consider waiting longer before engaging in strenuous activities.

Can You Get a New Tattoo Wet?

Your tattoo will be covered with a protective layer, but submerging it in water (like pools, hot tubs, or baths) can increase the risk of infection. It’s safe to lightly rinse your tattoo in the shower, but avoid soaking it for at least two weeks. If your tattoo gets wet accidentally, pat it dry gently—never rub.

Can You Tan After Getting a Tattoo?

Direct sunlight can cause fading, irritation, and prolonged healing for a fresh tattoo. UV rays break down ink particles, which can lead to premature fading, especially in color tattoos. Avoid tanning beds and direct sun exposure for at least two to four weeks. After healing, always use high-SPF sunscreen on your tattoo to keep it vibrant.

What Happens If You Get a Cut on a Tattoo?

Accidentally cutting or scraping a healing tattoo can damage the design and cause ink loss or scarring. If you get a cut, wash it gently with fragrance-free antibacterial soap, apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer, and keep it clean. If the wound is deep or shows signs of infection (redness, pus, swelling), consult a doctor.

What To Do After Getting a Tattoo?

After your tattoo session with one of our amazing Denver tattoos artists, your artist will clean and bandage your tattoo. Here’s what you should do next:

1. Remove the bandage after the recommended time (usually a few hours, unless advised otherwise).
2. Wash your tattoo gently with warm water and fragrance-free antibacterial soap.
3. Apply a thin layer of tattoo ointment (like Aquaphor or a tattoo-specific healing balm).
4. Avoid picking or scratching as your tattoo heals.
5. Wear loose, breathable clothing to prevent irritation.
6. Follow aftercare instructions carefully to prevent infection and ensure the best healing outcome.

How Long Does It Take for a Tattoo to Heal?

A tattoo typically heals in 2-4 weeks, but full healing (where the skin is completely regenerated) can take up to three months. Healing times vary based on tattoo size, placement, and individual skin type. The first week is when most peeling and itching occur—this is normal, so don’t scratch or pick at your tattoo.

FAQs About Mantra Tattoo & Piercing Studio

Where is Mantra Tattoo Located?

1. Mantra Tattoo West: 1695 Wadsworth Blvd, Lakewood, CO
2. Mantra Tattoo Denver: 1428 S Broadway, Denver, CO

Do I Need an Appointment?

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are recommended for custom designs, larger pieces, or specific artists.

What Tattoo Styles Do You Offer?

We specialize in blackwork, Japanese, fineline, traditional, neo-traditional, anime, watercolor, black and grey, and cover-ups.

Is Your Equipment Sterile?

Yes! We follow strict hygiene protocols and only use single-use needles and sterilized equipment to ensure a safe and clean experience for every client.

Do You Offer Piercings?

Yes! In addition to tattoos, we provide professional body piercings and face piercings with expert piercers and a large variety of high-quality jewelry.

Check out our getting a piercing FAQs page to learn more.

Do you offer custom tattoo designs?

=Absolutely! Our talented tattoo artists specialize in custom tattoos, including black and grey tattoos, realism, traditional tattoos, neo-traditional, watercolor tattoos, and fine line tattoos.

How Do I Book an Appointment?

To book a tattoo or piercing appointment, visit our studio, call us, or fill out a booking form online. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments ensure you get the artist and time slot you prefer.

Check out this guide on making a tatto appointment.

Book Your Tattoo at Mantra Tattoo

Ready to get inked? Our team at Mantra Tattoo is here to help you create a piece you’ll love forever. Whether you’re looking for a new tattoo, a tattoo cover-up, or a professional piercing, we’ve got you covered. Book your tattoo appointment today at Mantra Tattoo and let’s make your tattoo vision a reality.