We got all the answers!

Does it hurt?

Of course it does. But its not like getting an injection from a needle that goes deep into your skin - its like getting scratched kind of hard on the surface of your skin with a pin. There is some pressure, but its more annoying than anything else.

How much does a tattoo cost?

We have a minimum charge of $50, and it goes up from there. As an example, a tattoo about the size of the palm of your hand can run anywhere from $150 to $250, depending on the amount of detail, etc. We do charge more for different areas on the body, depending on how hard it is for the tattooer to reach that area.

Why do you charge more for different areas of the body?

The arm or an easy to reach spot like the leg would be the standard charge. We do charge more if the area is hard to get to ( like the chest or hip area) or where it might be more sensitive for the customer. The more moving around you do, the harder it is for us to apply the tattoo, hence the extra charge (which is usually only $10 to $20 more, sometimes higher in certain cases).

Do I need to make an appointment to get tattooed/pierced?

We usually have between 2 to 6 tattooers on staff on different days of the week, so not necessarily. If you need a large scale/custom piece drawn up, you need to come into the shop and leave a deposit to make an appointment. If you only want to get something small on a walk-in basis, chances are you can get it on the spot. Piercing is always on a walk-in basis. We do not take any appointments over the phone, sorry.

Should I eat before I get tattooed?

Absolutely! You need to keep your blood sugar up to absorb the shock of the tattoo (which isn't really that bad). Bring a soda along with you just in case, or a candy bar would be fine.

Do you take credit cards?

Yes, Visa and Mastercard but cash is always preferred.

Should I tip the tattooer?

If you feel like they did a good job for you, please feel free to do so. It will make the next tattoo you get from them hurt allot less...

Do you sterilize your needles?

Of course we do... All needles are sealed in sterile bags and used only once. They are then disposed of and never used again. All ink used for the tattoo is dispensed into small disposable ink caps and thrown away after each tattoo. Jinx Proof uses a Ritter M7 Speedclave autoclave, and all tattooing and piercing equipment is sterilized on the premises.

Can I get AIDS from a tattoo?

Not from us you wont! See above statement...
There has never been one reported case of AIDS from a tattoo. Hepatitis is a different story and is just as deadly. But again, if all needles are single use from a reputable shop, the risk of you contracting anything is impossible. You are only at risk of infection if you come in contact with HIV infected blood. Since it is only your skin that is being pierced by the tattoo needle, only your blood is being exposed. This means that the only person at greater risk is the tattoo artist. This is because they are the only ones that are coming in contact with (your) possibly infected blood. And since everything is single use and sterilized, and all artists and piercers wear surgical gloves, there is no chance of bodily fluids being transferred.

How do I take care of my tattoo?

Each tattooer will give you a business card with their name on it, with full care instructions on the back. If you don't have this card, just follow these simple instructions:
1. Leave the bandage on for a few hours. When you take the bandage off, wash the tattoo mildly with soap and water, do not scrub. Wash it once a day in the shower in the morning when you get up.
2. Apply a thin coat of antibacterial ointment, such as Neosporin, and do that 3 times a day for a few days.
3. In a few days you will notice the tattoo peeling or getting a slight scab. Do not pick at it! That means its healing fine. Switch to a fragrance free hand lotion like Lubriderm to keep it moist.
4. Keep it out of direct sunlight and do not soak it under water for at least 2 weeks, until completely healed.

Why do I have a red rash around my tattoo?

If you just got it and a few days have passed, you are probably putting too much ointment on it. You are clogging your skin and you need to clean it off and let it dry out for a day. If you have further concerns, feel free to call us. 202-337-5469.

Where are you located?

See the "directions" tab on the menu bar above.

How much are your piercings?

See the "piercings" tab on the menu bar above.

Can I get tattooed if I'm not 18?

Nope!

Even if I have my parents sign for me?

We will not tattoo or pierce anyone who is a minor, that means under the age of 18. That is our policy, and we do not bend.

Can my friend come back with me?

Sorry but no. We know it helps to have a friend along for moral support, but sometimes there just is not enough room in the tattooing area for everyone to hang out. More times than not having an extra person present can be too distracting for the client getting tattooed, and while it's nice to have someones hand to hold, it's better if they are able to concentrate and be focused with no extra added distractions. Too many cooks in the kitchen you know...the whole expierence will go a whole lot smoother for all if you just let the artist do their job the best way they can. And please keep all small children in the lobby, they are too much of a distraction for the artists who are working.

Can I get drunk before I get tattooed/pierced?

Nope! We need you in the right state of mind, and besides, you have to sign a consent form stating so. Feel free to get drunk when you're done.

What should I bring with me to get tattooed or pierced?

Bring your wallet, your deposit receipt if applicable, and your I.D.! You need to have proper I.D. to get anything done at Jinx Proof, If you don't have it you are SOL.

We hope this helps! We want your tattoo and piercing experience from us to be a good one, because happy customers are our best advertisement.