Frequently Asked Questions

General Shop Questions

1) Do you accept walk-ins or appointments only?

Of course appointments are always preferred and receive priority over walk-ins. We DO accept walk-in based off of artist(s) availability.

2) How do I book an appointment?

You can book an appointment through our website on the main home page. Just scroll down and choose your preferred artist.

3) Is a deposit required?

Yes, we do require a deposit for booked appointments. Deposits range from $25 to $100 depending on which artist you choose and which service.

4) Are deposits refundable?

It depends. If you cancel or try to reschedule your appointment within 24 hours of your appointment, you forfeit your deposit per shop policy. We send you a confirmation text around lunch 1 day prior to your appointment which is your last chance to cancel or reschedule. If you cancel or reschedule by or prior to your appointment date, your deposit can be refunded.

5) How much do tattoos cost?

Prices vary greatly depending on the size, amount of detail, color, shading, location and which artist you choose. Shop minimum is $75 and prices go up from there. Its always best to stop in the shop and consult an artist for the most accurate pricing for your desired piece. You can also reach out to artists directly through their Instagram and get an estimate under the Services and Tattoos section of this site.

6) How much do piercings cost?

All piercings we provide and pricing is available under the Services and Piercing section of this website.

7) Do you offer consultations?

Absolutely! Anyone can schedule a consultation with their preferred artist online or simply stop by the shop. You can also go to the Services > Tattoos section and click on the indivdual artist's Instagram page and consult with them directly.

8) Are your artists licensed?

All artists at Elite Ink Studio are licensed through the state of Georgia Department of Health.

9) Is your shop inspected by the health department?

Yes! Elite Ink Studio is inspected twice annually by Georgia DPH. Inspection results are clearly displayed in our front lobby.

10) What are your shop hours?

Shop hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 12pm to 7pm. Sundays 12pm-5pm. Closed Mondays. Before or after hours appointments are definately available if you coordinate with your individual artist of choice.

11) Where are you located?

We are located at 7306 GA-21, Suite 206, Port Wentworth, GA 31407. We're in the Food Lion shopping plaza off exit 109 from I-95.

12) Is online booking available?

Yes, Online Booking is available through multiple areas throughout our website.

Tattoo Questions

1) How much does a tattoo cost?

Tattoo pricing depends on several factors, including the size, placement, level of detail, and the time required to complete the design. Smaller tattoos typically start at our shop minimum, while larger or more detailed pieces are priced based on the time and complexity involved. During your consultation, our artists will discuss your design ideas and provide an accurate estimate so you know exactly what to expect before your session begins.

2) What is your minimum tattoo price?

Our shop minimum, $75, is the starting price for any tattoo, regardless of size. This covers the time needed to set up a sterile workstation, prepare equipment, and create your design. Even small tattoos require the same level of safety, professionalism, and high-quality materials. For an exact price or quote for your idea, feel free to contact us or stop by the studio for a quick consultation.

3) How long will my tattoo take?

The time needed for a tattoo depends on the size, detail, placement, and complexity of the design. Small tattoos may take less than an hour, while larger or more detailed pieces can take several hours or multiple sessions to complete. During your consultation, your artist will discuss your design and give you a time estimate so you know what to expect for your appointment.

4) Does getting a tattoo hurt?

Some level of discomfort is normal when getting a tattoo, but most people describe the sensation as manageable. It often feels like a constant scratching or vibrating sensation on the skin. Pain levels can vary depending on the placement of the tattoo, your personal tolerance, and the length of the session. Areas with thinner skin or closer to bone may feel more sensitive, while fleshier areas tend to be more comfortable. Our artists work carefully to make the experience as comfortable as possible and will guide you through the process.

5) How should I prepare for my tattoo appointment?

To ensure the best experience and healing results, we recommend a few simple steps before your appointment. Get a good night’s sleep, eat a full meal beforehand, and stay well hydrated. Avoid alcohol or blood-thinning medications for at least 24 hours prior to your session, as they can increase bleeding. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed. It’s also helpful to bring reference images and be ready to discuss your design with your artist. Arriving relaxed and prepared helps make your tattoo session smooth and enjoyable.

6)Can I bring my own design?

Absolutely! We welcome clients to bring their own design ideas or reference images. Your artist will review the design with you and may make adjustments to ensure it works well as a tattoo and fits the placement you have in mind. Whether you have a fully finished design or just inspiration, our artists can help refine the concept and create a custom tattoo that’s uniquely yours.

7)Can you cover up an old tattoo?

Yes, many tattoos can be successfully covered up with a new design. The process depends on factors such as the size, color, age, and darkness of the existing tattoo. During a consultation, your artist will evaluate the current tattoo and discuss design options that will effectively cover or incorporate it into a new piece. In some cases, lightening the old tattoo with laser removal sessions may be recommended to achieve the best possible result.

8) Do you do custom tattoo designs?

Yes! Over 90% of the tattoos we create are fully custom designs. Our artists work closely with each client to develop a unique piece based on your ideas, references, and personal style. Whether you come in with a clear concept or just an inspiration, we’ll collaborate with you to design a tattoo that is completely original and tailored specifically for you.

9) What tattoo styles do you specialize in? (fine line, realism, traditional, black & grey, color, etc.)

Our artists are experienced in a wide range of tattoo styles and designs. We specialize in everything from fine line, realism, traditional, black & grey, and color work to fully custom pieces. Whether you’re looking for something bold and classic or highly detailed and realistic, our team can create a design that fits your vision and style. During your consultation, we’ll help guide you toward the best approach to bring your idea to life.

10) How do I take care of my new tattoo?

Proper aftercare is essential for your tattoo to heal well and look its best. Keep the bandage on for the time recommended by your artist, then gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Pat the area dry and apply a thin layer of the recommended aftercare ointment or lotion. Avoid soaking the tattoo in water, direct sun exposure, and tight clothing on the area while it heals. Do not pick or scratch the tattoo as it heals. Following the aftercare instructions provided by your artist will help ensure proper healing and long-lasting results.

11) How long does a tattoo take to heal?

Most tattoos take about 2–3 weeks for the outer skin to heal, while the deeper layers of skin can take 4–6 weeks to fully heal. During the first few days, the tattoo may feel tender and slightly swollen. As it heals, you may notice light peeling or itching, which is a normal part of the process. Following proper aftercare instructions and keeping the area clean and moisturized will help ensure your tattoo heals properly and maintains its color and detail.

12) Can I work out after getting tattooed?

It’s best to avoid intense workouts for at least 24–48 hours after getting a tattoo. Exercise can cause excessive sweating, friction, and stretching of the skin, which may irritate the fresh tattoo and affect the healing process. If you do return to the gym, try to avoid exercises that put direct pressure or friction on the tattooed area. Keeping the tattoo clean, dry, and protected while it heals will help ensure the best results.

13)Can I swim after getting a tattoo?

It’s best to avoid swimming until your tattoo is fully healed. Fresh tattoos are essentially open wounds, and soaking them in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or the ocean can expose the area to bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Most tattoos take 2–3 weeks for the outer layer of skin to heal, but it’s safest to wait 3–4 weeks before swimming or fully submerging the tattoo in water. Keeping the tattoo clean and dry during the healing process will help ensure the best results.

14) Do you tattoo minors with parental consent?

No. In the state of Georgia, the legal minimum age to receive a tattoo is 18 years old, regardless of parental consent. For this reason, we only tattoo clients who are 18 or older and require a valid government-issued ID at the time of your appointment.

15) What should I wear to my appointment?

Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed. For example, if you’re getting a leg tattoo, shorts or loose pants work best; for arm tattoos, a short-sleeve or sleeveless shirt is ideal. Keep in mind that tattoo ink can sometimes stain fabrics, so it’s a good idea to wear clothing you don’t mind getting a little messy.

Piercing Questions

1) How much does a piercing cost?

Piercing prices can vary depending on the type of piercing and the jewelry selected. All of our current piercing services and pricing are listed on our website under the Services → Piercings section. If you have any questions about a specific piercing, feel free to contact us or stop by the studio and our team will be happy to help.

2) All of our piercings include high-quality starter jewelry that is safe and appropriate for the healing process. We use professional-grade materials designed to promote proper healing and comfort. Depending on the piercing, jewelry options may vary, and upgraded jewelry styles may also be available. Our piercers will help you choose the best option for your piercing during your appointment.

3) Do you use needles or piercing guns?

We perform all piercings using sterile, single-use piercing needles. Professional piercing needles are the safest and most precise method, allowing for a cleaner piercing and better healing. We do not use piercing guns, as they can cause unnecessary trauma to the tissue and are not suitable for professional body piercings.

4) How long does a piercing take to heal?

Healing time varies depending on the type of piercing and how well aftercare instructions are followed. Most piercings take anywhere from 6 weeks to several months to fully heal. Earlobe piercings typically heal faster, while cartilage or body piercings may take longer. Our piercers will provide detailed aftercare instructions and let you know the expected healing time for your specific piercing.

5) How do I clean my piercing?

Clean your piercing 2–3 times a day using a sterile saline solution or a piercing aftercare spray recommended by your piercer. Gently spray or soak the area and allow it to air dry or pat it dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid touching the piercing with unwashed hands, twisting the jewelry, or using alcohol, peroxide, or harsh soaps, as these can irritate the piercing and slow the healing process. Following proper aftercare will help your piercing heal safely and reduce the risk of infection.

6) Do you pierce minors?

Yes, we do offer piercings for minors with certain requirements. Earlobe piercings are available for ages 5 and up. For any piercings other than earlobes, minors must have a notarized Minor Piercing Consent Form completed by a parent or legal guardian.The consent form can be found on our website in the Piercing section, or you can pick up a physical copy at the shop. If you need a notary, there is a UPS Store in our plaza that offers notary services, but we recommend calling ahead to confirm that a notary is available before your visit.

7) What ID is required?

A valid government-issued photo ID is required for all tattoo, piercing and PMU services. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license, state ID, passport, gun permit, or military ID. For minors receiving a piercing, parent or legal guardian must provide valid identification, along with any required consent documentation. This helps us comply with state regulations and ensure a safe, professional experience for all clients.

8) Can I bring my own jewelry?

For health and safety reasons, we generally do not allow outside jewelry for initial piercings. We use high-quality, sterile jewelry that is specifically designed for safe healing and proper sizing. This helps reduce the risk of irritation, infection, or improper fit. If you already have jewelry you’d like to use for a jewelry change or healed piercing, feel free to bring it in and our piercers can take a look to determine if it is safe and appropriate to use.

9) What type of jewelry is best for new piercings?

The best jewelry for new piercings is high-quality, implant-grade materials that are safe for the body and promote proper healing. Professional piercers typically use materials such as implant-grade titanium or surgical-grade stainless steel that are designed to minimize irritation and allergic reactions. The jewelry should also be properly sized to allow room for swelling during the healing process. Our piercers will help you select the safest and most appropriate starter jewelry for your specific piercing.

10) Due to Georgia state regulations, dermal piercings have not been legal in Georgia since 2023, so we do not perform dermal anchors. However, we do offer surface piercings, depending on the placement and anatomy. If you’re interested in a surface piercing, our piercers will be happy to discuss placement options and determine if it’s a good fit for you during a consultation.

11) What if my piercing gets infected?

Mild irritation during the healing process can be normal, but if you believe your piercing may be infected, it’s important to address it as soon as possible. Signs of infection can include excessive redness, swelling, warmth, unusual discharge, or increasing pain. In many cases, continuing proper cleaning with sterile saline and avoiding unnecessary touching can help calm irritation.

If you have concerns, we recommend stopping by the studio so one of our piercers can take a look and offer guidance. If symptoms are severe or do not improve, you should seek advice from a medical professional to ensure proper treatment.

12) When can I change my jewelry?

You should wait until your piercing is fully healed before changing the jewelry. Healing times vary depending on the type of piercing, but most piercings take several weeks to a few months to heal completely. Changing jewelry too early can irritate the piercing and delay healing.

If you’re unsure whether your piercing is ready, feel free to stop by the studio and our piercers can check it for you and safely change the jewelry if needed.

13) Do cartilage piercings hurt?

Cartilage piercings can be slightly more uncomfortable than earlobe piercings because the cartilage tissue is firmer. Most people describe the sensation as a quick pinch followed by some pressure that lasts only a few seconds. After the piercing, the area may feel tender or sore for a short time, which is a normal part of the healing process. Our professional piercers work quickly and carefully to make the experience as comfortable as possible.

14) Do you do nose, septum, navel, or industrial piercings?

Yes, we offer a wide variety of professional body piercings, including nose, septum, navel (belly button), and industrial piercings. Our experienced piercers use sterile, single-use needles and high-quality jewelry to ensure a safe and precise procedure. If you’re unsure which piercing is right for you, feel free to stop by the studio or contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

Permanent Make-up Questions

1) Coming soon.