Yes, as long as you go to a reputable artist who follows all recommended safety precautions. The artist must wear gloves and face mask, must use fresh, sterile, disposable needles, and MUST sterilize non-disposable equipment in an autoclave. Ask for a tour of the premises, and personally check needles for expiry dates.

Yes it hurts, but not as much as you imagine. My clients describe the sensation as strong discomfort, rather than actual pain. That said, pain also varies depending upon the body area. The pain is comparable to the discomfort you feel when you have a scratch wound, but it lessens dramatically once the tattooing is complete. Remember, if tattooing hurts as badly as you think it does, people wouldn't keep coming back for more!

These kinds of products are really not recommended. The numbing lasts only for a short while, and when sensation returns to the area, the pain will hit you all at once, making it intensely uncomfortable. On the other hand, tattooing without numbing creams allows you to gradually get used to the pain.

When it comes to tattoos, you get what you pay for. Permanent body art is like jewellery, only more valuable because you will wear your art for life. Rather than getting poor quality work for cheap (and then paying another artist to cover it up!), choose a tattoo artist that does high quality work, and who runs a studio that is properly invested in hygiene and safety equipment.

This is completely up to you, although your artist can help you decide. You can choose a picture from the artist's collection, or you can have her create a custom piece just for you. Your only limit is your own imagination. I personally advise my clients to have a custom tattoo created just for them - tell me your story, and I will design a tattoo just for you.

Although you can get a tattoo any time of the year, your skin gets a lot more abuse during the summer with swimming, sweat and just from being exposed to the sun more. Remember that the first few weeks after getting your tattoo, it must be protected from direct sun, dust, excessive sweat etc. Therefore, choose a time when you know you can care for your tattoo properly. Also, don't get your tattoo done when you are sick, or on heavy medication.