Straight answers to the things that stop people booking a tattoo — from the first idea to a healed tattoo. Each guide points you at real, credited work in the catalogue, and health guides quote dermatologists who specialise in tattoos.
Outer forearm
After a new tattoo, when can I shower, swim, go to the gym, sunbathe, use sunscreen, shave, drink alcohol or wear tight clothes? A simple timeline with sources.
Very stable Moderately stable Most affected by body changes Forearm, calf, upper back, shoulder blade, lower leg Upper arm, shoulder, outer thigh Stomach, hips, chest/breasts, inner thighs See…
Large — up to about 30 cm Detailed compositions across a forearm, calf or thigh.
Easy, flat areas like the outer forearm or upper arm are faster.
Moderate: forearm, shoulder, upper back, stomach — some nerve or movement involved, but generally well tolerated.
Larger, more detailed pieces need a canvas that can actually hold the detail — a forearm, thigh, back or full sleeve gives an artist the room to add…
Nine stages from a vague idea to a healed tattoo. Every guide ends with a link to the next step, so you can read them in order — or jump straight to where you are.
The worries people mention most — and where the honest answer is.
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Health guides quote dermatologists who specialise in tattoos word for word. New to the words? See the tattoo glossary. How guides are written and corrected: editorial policy.