What to know

Before you book, how deposits and cancellations work, and how to look after a fresh tattoo. This is the shop's own policy.

Before you book

Thank you for considering getting a tattoo at Local Roots Ink studio. Before booking your appointment, please carefully review the details below to ensure a smooth experience and optimal results.

Check out our artists and their work

View our gallery with work from each artist here, or meet the crew.

Think about design and placement

Have a clear idea of the design you want and where you would like it placed on your body. If you are unsure, our artists are happy to help you brainstorm and finalize your concept during the consultation.

Schedule a consultation

Please schedule a consultation with your chosen artist before booking. This allows you to discuss your ideas, get expert advice, and ensure you and the artist are on the same page. While it’s important to know what you want and communicate your ideas, having an open mind to suggestions from your artist who will provide insight on what will work best, will bring forth the optimal result of your vision.

You will also be given a cost estimate during your consultation.

Confirm availability and commitment

Before booking, ensure you’re available on the scheduled date and time. Tattoo sessions can take several hours, so plan accordingly. A deposit may be required to secure your appointment, and it is non-refundable.

Communicate openly

Clear communication is key. If you have questions or concerns at any stage, don’t hesitate to talk to your tattoo artist. We want to make sure you have the best possible tattoo experience at Local Roots Ink!

The day before your tattoo
  • Get a good nights’ sleep. A well-rested body and mind will make your appointment go smoothly.
  • Avoid consuming alcohol or recreational drugs as they can thin your blood and affect how your body responds to the ink.
  • Stay hydrated and eat well. Some tattoo appointments may take a couple of hours. Consume a well-balanced meal a few hours before your appointment to maintain a stable blood sugar level.
  • Dress comfortably and appropriately. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed.

Deposits & cancellation

These policies will be enforced as it does take time to design your personalized tattoo and prep for your appointment. Any rescheduling will be at the discretion of each artists.

Deposit policy

A non-refundable deposit of $100 is required to secure your tattoo appointment. This deposit is deducted from the total cost of your tattoo session.

Cancellation and rescheduling

To cancel or reschedule your appointment, we require at least 48 hours notice. This allows us to accommodate other clients and adjust our schedule accordingly.

Clients can reschedule their appointments without penalty if the request is made at least 48 before the scheduled appointment.

Same day cancellations and no call/no shows will forfeit their deposit fee and a new retainer will be required to secure a new spot on the artists’ calendar. It will be at the discretion of each artist if rebooking will be allowed.

Emergencies and exceptions

We understand that emergencies happen. In case of unforeseen circumstances, please contact your artist as soon as possible to discuss your situation. We will do our best to accommodate you while being fair to other clients and our artists.

Late arrivals

Please contact your artist if you will be more than 15 minutes late to your appointment. If you arrive late for your appointment, your session may be shortened to ensure that our artists can accommodate their other scheduled clients. The full session fee will still apply.

Refunds

Deposits are non-refundable but are transferable to a rescheduled appointment at the discretion of each artists. Refunds for completed tattoo sessions will not be provided.

How do I cancel or reschedule?

To cancel or reschedule your appointment, or if you have any questions about our cancellation policy, please contact your tattoo artist or email us at hello@localrootsink.com.

By booking your tattoo appointment with us, you acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined in this cancellation policy. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Tattoo aftercare

How to look after it from the moment you leave the chair.

The first days
  • Once the tattoo is done, the artist will cover the area completely with plastic wrap or a bandage. Do not remove the protective wrap as it protects the tattoo from bacteria, sunlight and from rubbing against clothing.
  • After 2 hours, it is safe to remove the bandage and wash the tattoo.
  • After thorough hand-washing, you can gently wash the tattoo with antibacterial soap and warm water using your fingers (do not use a washcloth). After washing, pat the skin dry.
  • On day three, after washing and waiting for skin to completely dry, you can start applying a small, thin amount of ointment (aquaphor or A+D ointment) onto the tattoo, but leave it uncovered to allow the skin to breathe.
Water and washing
  • Please avoid submerging the tattoo in water or getting the tattoo wet during the first 3–6 weeks, except for when washing it.
  • You can continue using the washing technique above throughout the first week when needed.

The shop's current site gives two soaking windows — 3–6 weeks here, “the first two weeks” in the tips below. Which one should it say?

Week two

Around the beginning of the second week, the scabs will start to flake off. It is important to be especially gentle with washing and moisturizing during this week, as it is easy to tear away scabs and damage the tattoo.

The skin is likely to feel very itchy during this week. However, do not scratch. Additional unscented, alcohol free moisturizer may help relieve the itch.

Additional tips
  • Avoid sun exposure: Protect your tattoo from direct sunlight and tanning beds during the healing process. UV rays can fade and damage the tattoo. Apply a high SPF sunscreen after the tattoo is fully healed.
  • Don’t scratch or pick: It’s normal for your tattoo to itch as it heals, but resist the urge to scratch or pick at it. Scratching can cause scarring and infection.
  • Avoid soaking: For the first two weeks, avoid soaking your tattoo in water. Showers are recommended over baths, and when showering, keep the water lukewarm. Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or the ocean during this time.
  • Wear loose clothing: Choose loose, breathable clothing that won’t rub against your tattoo. Tight or abrasive clothing can irritate the healing skin.
  • Watch for signs of infection: Keep an eye out for redness, swelling, excessive pain, or unusual discharge. If you notice any signs of infection, contact your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional promptly.

Everything else

Braids, jewelry, walk-ins and paperwork.

Do you take walk-ins?

The studio is by appointment only.

The current About page also says walk-ins are welcome “based on artist availability”. Keep that line or drop it?

Braids and permanent jewelry — what do I need to know?

Braids are with To'a and take a non-refundable deposit. Permanent jewelry and PMU are with Julia. DM them direct, or text the shop.

Prep and aftercare for braids, jewelry and PMU

Is there a consent form?

The current site links a consent form. Keep it as a download, or fill it in at the shop?

Nothing sends until you press send in your own messages.