FAQ & Studio Policies | Manthrika Tattoo Studio

Studio

At Manthrika Tattoo, we treat skin with years of study and intention. Trained at the London Tattoo Academy and refined across respected studios, Sachin Karmaran leads the craft. He channels the wisdom of art worldwide into calm, considered practice.

Preparation

Preparation is key to a flawless tattoo experience. We take the time to plan every detail with you, ensuring a seamless process and a result that reflects your vision. A tattoo is a lifelong commitment, and we approach it with the care it deserves.

Execution

We bring your vision to life, crafting a tattoo that tells your story forever. Our collaborative process ensures you feel comfortable, valued, and free to express yourself fully, making each moment of the experience unforgettable.

An additional fee applies for a tattoo or piercing photo mock-up. We can share edited images to preview how it will look on you and confirm the correct placement if you're unsure before proceeding.

Tattoo Styles

Diverse Artistry for Every Vision.

From traditional and neo-traditional to realism, blackwork, and fine line tattoos, we specialize in a wide range of styles to bring your unique vision to life. Every piece begins as a conversation, so we take time to match technique to story before a single line is drawn.

Traditional Tattoos

Bold lines, vibrant colors, and classic icons like anchors, roses, and eagles. A timeless look rooted in early Western tattoo culture.

Neo-Traditional Tattoos

Builds on Traditional with richer palettes and intricate details. Often features ornate animals, florals, and mythic motifs with modern flair.

Japanese Tattoos

Symbolic, detailed compositions with dragons, koi, and cherry blossoms. Designed as flowing, large-scale pieces that map the body.

Blackwork Tattoos

Solid black ink creates striking geometric or patterned designs. Minimal to complex, celebrated for impact and versatility.

Watercolor Tattoos

Soft, painterly hues that mimic watercolor without heavy outlines. Great for abstract forms, nature scenes, and expressive animals.

Finding Your Style

Explore these styles to match your story and aesthetics. Collaborate with us to bring your ideas to life.

Realism Tattoos

Lifelike portraits, objects, and landscapes with nuanced shading. Demands high skill to capture accurate depth and perspective.

Minimalist Tattoos

Clean lines and pared-back forms with subtle symbolism. Small, refined pieces that speak quietly but meaningfully.

Tribal Tattoos

Bold black patterns rooted in indigenous traditions and meanings. Modern takes exist, but approach with cultural respect.

New School Tattoos

Cartoonish exaggeration, bold outlines, and saturated color. Playful, imaginative themes with dynamic, 3D-like energy.

Dotwork Tattoos

Images and shading built from precise dots. Ideal for mandalas, geometry, and intricate, textured pieces.

Tattoo Aftercare Guide

Essential Steps for Proper Healing

Proper aftercare is crucial for your tattoo's healing and long-term appearance. Follow these guidelines to ensure the best results.

01. Consult your artist before the session

If you have HIV, diabetes, skin infections, or allergies, inform your artist beforehand to ensure safety and proper precautions.

02. Keep the bandage on for a few hours

Your artist covers the tattoo to protect it from bacteria — leave it on for 2–4 hours before gently removing it.

03. Wash your hands first

Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo to avoid introducing germs.

04. Clean gently with mild soap

Use lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, antibacterial soap to clean the area — avoid scrubbing.

05. Pat dry with a clean towel

Gently tap the area dry with a soft towel or tissue. Don't rub or use anything rough.

06. Apply a thin layer of aftercare ointment

Use the recommended tattoo balm or unscented moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and promote healing.

07. Avoid over-moisturizing

Too much ointment can suffocate the skin and slow healing — apply just a light layer.

08. Don't scratch or peel

As your tattoo heals, it will itch and flake — never pick at scabs or peel off dry skin.

09. Avoid tight clothing

Wear loose, breathable clothes to prevent friction and irritation on the fresh tattoo.

10. Keep it out of direct sunlight

Fresh tattoos are highly sensitive — sun exposure can cause fading and irritation.

11. No swimming or soaking

Avoid pools, hot tubs, and long baths until the tattoo is fully healed to prevent infection.

12. Avoid gym or heavy sweating for a few days

Excess sweat and friction can delay healing and cause irritation on fresh skin.

13. Don't re-bandage unless advised

Let your tattoo breathe — covering it again traps moisture and slows healing unless your artist instructs otherwise.

14. Expect light peeling and itching

This is a natural part of healing. Keep moisturizing and resist the urge to touch it.

15. Keep the tattoo clean and dry at night

Use clean bedsheets and avoid sleeping directly on the tattooed area to prevent infection.

16. Protect your tattoo long-term

Once healed, apply sunscreen regularly and moisturize to keep the colors vibrant and skin healthy.

Tattoo Policy

Clear Terms, No Surprises.

A quick rundown of pricing, booking, and what to expect before, during, and after your appointment.

01. How much will my tattoo cost?

Pricing depends on size, placement, detail, and time. Share references, size (in cm), and placement for a tailored quote.

02. Who can get tattooed?

We tattoo clients aged 18+ with valid photo ID. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have medical conditions, please wait or consult your GP first.

03. Do you do walk-ins?

When the schedule allows — first come, first served. Message or call ahead to check availability on the day.

04. How can I prepare for my appointment?

Sleep well, eat a solid meal, hydrate, and avoid alcohol or blood thinners. Wear comfy clothing that exposes the area.

05. How do I book a tattoo?

Send us your idea, references, placement, rough size, and availability via our form/DM/email. We'll confirm details and offer dates.

06. Will I see my design before my appointment?

Yes — either ahead of time or on the day with room for tweaks. Major changes may require extra time or a new booking.

07. Do I need to leave a deposit to secure an appointment?

Yes — a non-refundable deposit secures your slot and goes toward the final price. The deposit amount depends on the project and time booked.

08. Can I have a consultation before booking a tattoo?

Absolutely — short consults (in-person or video) are available. We'll refine ideas, sizing, placement, and budget.

09. What should I expect in a consultation?

We'll discuss your concept, style, and longevity, then advise on size and placement. You'll get a clear plan, quote, and next steps.

10. Should I shave before my tattoo?

Not necessary — we'll prep and shave the area safely in-studio. If you do shave, do it gently 24 hours prior to avoid irritation.

11. How do I look after my tattoo?

Follow our aftercare: wash with unscented soap, pat dry, apply a thin moisturiser, and avoid soaking/sun until healed. Expect 2–4 weeks for surface healing.

12. Can I bring friends to my appointment?

One guest is usually fine if space allows; we may ask guests to wait outside to maintain focus and hygiene.

13. What is your minimum charge?

A minimum applies to cover setup, materials, and sterile procedure. Ask for our current minimum when you enquire.

14. Why is there a minimum size for tattoos?

Tiny details can blur as skin heals and ages. Minimum sizes protect readability and longevity.

15. Can I reschedule my appointment?

Yes — give at least 48 hours notice to move your slot and keep your deposit. Late changes or no-shows may forfeit the deposit at 50%.

Piercing Precare & Aftercare Guide

Essential Steps for Safe Healing

Proper preparation and aftercare are vital for successful piercing healing. Follow these guidelines to ensure the best results and avoid complications.

01. Disclose any health conditions before your piercing

Inform your piercer if you have HIV, diabetes, skin infections, allergies, or blood disorders to ensure a safe and hygienic procedure.

02. Eat and hydrate before your appointment

A light meal and plenty of water before your appointment help stabilize your body and prevent dizziness during or after the piercing.

03. Choose comfortable clothing

Wear clothes that give easy access to the area being pierced and won't rub against the new piercing.

04. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and blood thinners

These can increase bleeding and sensitivity, so skip them for at least 24 hours before your appointment.

05. Keep your hands clean

Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your new piercing to avoid infection.

06. Clean the piercing twice daily

Use a sterile saline solution or piercing aftercare spray — never use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh soaps.

07. Gently pat dry

Use a clean tissue or paper towel to gently dry the area. Avoid towels that can carry bacteria.

08. Don't twist or rotate jewelry

Let the piercing heal naturally — twisting can damage healing tissue and cause irritation.

09. Avoid makeup, lotions, or creams near the area

Keep skincare products, perfumes, and cosmetics away from the piercing site until fully healed.

10. Stay out of pools and hot tubs

Chlorinated or dirty water can cause infection. Avoid swimming until the piercing has healed completely.

11. Don't remove jewelry too early

Keep the jewelry in place for the entire healing period; removing it can close the hole or trap bacteria inside.

12. Sleep carefully

Try not to sleep on the pierced area — use clean pillowcases and avoid pressure or friction while sleeping.

13. Expect mild swelling or redness

Some soreness or redness is normal for a few days. If you notice pus, extreme pain, or prolonged swelling, contact your piercer.

14. Maintain hygiene and long-term care

Even after healing, clean your jewelry regularly and avoid changing it too frequently to keep the healing healthy.

15. If swelling or pain lasts more than two weeks

Contact your piercer immediately if the swelling increases or the pain worsens — it may indicate an infection or reaction.

16. If yellow pus or fluid is present

If you notice yellow discharge, a foul odor, or severe redness, seek professional medical attention promptly.

Before You Book

Piercing Policy

Clear Terms, No Surprises.

A quick rundown of pricing, aftercare, and age requirements before your piercing appointment.

01. How much will my piercing cost?

Pricing varies by placement, jewellery material, and setup time. Book your placement and jewellery preference for a tailored quote.

02. Talk to me about piercing aftercare

Clean with sterile saline daily and avoid touching or twisting. Skip swimming, makeup, and sleeping on the area until swelling settles; follow our guide.

03. What can I get pierced?

Ears (lobe, helix, conch, rook, tragus, daith, industrial), nose, navel, eyebrow, and nipple (18+). Availability depends on anatomy; we'll advise what's safest.

04. How quickly will my piercing heal?

Initial settling takes weeks; full healing often takes months. Typical timelines: lobes ~6–8 weeks; cartilage 6–12 months; nostril 3–6 months; navel 6–9+ months (varies by body).

05. What metal jewellery do you use?

Implant-grade titanium or surgical steel; body-safe 14k/18k nickel-safe gold and genuine gemstones on request. We avoid plated or sterling silver for fresh piercings.

06. How do I book my piercing?

Book via our DM, call, or direct booking form; select your jewellery choice and dates. Please bring valid photo ID and arrive hydrated and well-fed.

07. How old do I have to be to get a piercing?

Earlobes: 13+ with parent/guardian present and ID. Most facial/body piercings: 16+ with valid photo ID. Intimate piercings: 18+ only.

Now that you're clear,
we can proceed :)