FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

To book an appointment, please go to the following link: 
https://josecontrerasart.com/booking-now-black-and-grey-realism-texas/

Jose assistant will review your request and respond via email to clarify any questions and confirm availability.

The minimum age to get a tattoo is 18 years old. Tattoos are not performed on minors, even with parental consent.

Tattoo sessions vary in length depending on the design’s complexity. Be prepared for a long session, as Jose focuses on detailed, high-quality work.

To ensure the best experience, follow these recommendations:
•Avoid tanning before your appointment. Sunburned or overly tanned skin can affect the tattooing process and healing.
•Do not use numbing creams. These can cause skin inflammation, making ink application more difficult and affecting ink absorption.
•Get a good night’s sleep.
•Eat a proper meal before your session.
•Stay well-hydrated.
•Avoid alcohol or drugs before your appointment.
•Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area.

Even though Jose specializes in pet portrait tattoos, pets are not allowed in the studio for hygiene reasons.

Jose will provide you with a PDF via email with detailed aftercare instructions. Some general guidelines include:
 
•Keep the tattooed area clean.
 
•Apply only a very thin layer of cream to prevent excessive moisture, which can slow healing and increase infection risk. Jose typically recommends Aquaphor ointment.
 
•Rest well to support your immune system during healing.
 
•Eat a healthy diet to aid recovery.
 
•Avoid sun exposure and do not tan your skin until the tattoo is fully healed.
 
•Do not submerge the tattoo in water (pools, lakes, rivers, ocean, hot tubs) until fully healed.
 
•Avoid saunas and intense workouts in the first few days to prevent irritation and infection.
 
•Do not scratch or rub the tattooed area.

To maintain a focused and calm environment, it is recommended that you come alone to your appointment. If you need to bring someone, please check with Jose in advance.

The price of a tattoo depends on several factors, including:
 
•Size and placement on the body.
•Level of detail and complexity.
•Number of sessions required.
 
Jose assistant will provide you with an estimated cost via email.
Pain levels vary depending on the individual and the tattoo’s location. Some areas of the body are more sensitive than others. Jose uses techniques to minimize discomfort and ensure the best experience possible.
 
•Size and placement on the body.
•Level of detail and complexity.
•Number of sessions required.
 
Jose assistant will provide you with an estimated cost via email.

Jose only uses high-quality materials. All needles are sterile, single-use, and disposable. Instead of grips, Jose uses high-end cartridges from brands like Cheyenne and Bishop.

Jose creates each tattoo based on the client’s idea and references. While he develops a concept beforehand, the final design is defined on the day of the session.

This ensures real-time adjustments and protects the exclusivity of the design, avoiding unnecessary email revisions.

Yes, a deposit is required to secure your appointment with Jose. This deposit is non-refundable and guarantees your spot in the schedule.
 
•If you attend your appointment and complete all necessary sessions, the deposit will be deducted from the total cost at the end of the final session.
 
•If you miss your appointment or cancel without prior notice, you will lose your deposit, and a new payment will be required to reschedule.

If you need to reschedule, you must notify Jose assistant at least 48 hours in advance. Otherwise, you will lose your deposit.

No, Jose does not do cover-ups or modifications on existing tattoos.

Most tattoos do not require touch-ups. However, if you believe yours does, send a photo of your tattoo once it is fully healed so Jose can evaluate whether a touch-up is necessary.

Jose accepts payments in cash, credit/debit cards, and bank transfers via Zelle and PayPal.

Jose frequently travels and works in major cities across the United States, including New York, Austin, Dallas, Miami, and Los Angeles. He also occasionally visits other cities. The exact studio location will be provided when your appointment is confirmed.

Unusual & Fun Questions

No. Not only is it illegal in most places, but alcohol thins your blood, making the tattoo process more complicated and affecting healing. Plus, you don’t want to wake up with a surprise tattoo you regret.

No. Jose only uses high-quality, professional-grade inks that meet safety standards. No DIY ink experiments here!

As much as we love animals, for hygiene and safety reasons, pets are not allowed in the studio.

Not at all! But your immune system does work hard during healing, so make sure you eat well, rest, and follow aftercare instructions.

Technically? No. Realistically? Definitely no. Large tattoos require multiple sessions for the best results, healing, and detail.

Unless you specifically get UV-reactive ink, no. But if you want a glowing effect, José can create an amazing design that looks like it does!

Regulations vary by country and blood bank, but many places require you to wait between 3-12 months after getting a tattoo before donating. Check with your local blood donation center for specific rules.

 

It’s best to avoid heavy workouts for at least a few days. Excessive sweating, stretching, and friction can affect healing. Take it as an excuse to relax!

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