David Strods Tattoo FAQs

Tattoo FAQ: Tattoo removal and design – Honest Answers, General Tattoo Info & Tips for Staying Safe

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start?

Use the contact form and send your idea through.

Include placement, size, and references if you have them.
From there, I’ll guide you on what’s possible and how to move forward.

or just proceed to my calendar read through and secure closest comfortable date

Can you cover up any tattoo?

Yes — absolutely. But let’s be honest: not every old tattoo can be saved without the right attitude and a bit of flexibility.

It depends on the existing pigment, size, and condition of the skin.
Sometimes we go straight into a cover-up, sometimes laser is necessary first.

I’ll always tell you what actually works, not what sounds good.

Is laser tattoo removal painful?

There’s some discomfort, yes — it’s often compared to fast, hot snaps against the skin. But sessions are short, and I use a high-performance skin cooling system designed to reduce pain and prevent surface damage. It’s a noticeable upgrade from what most local places use, and clients regularly say it’s much more tolerable than expected.

Will I see the design before the session?

Yes — but not weeks in advance, and it won’t be sent out to you.

Designs are finalised in person prior to the session to keep them fresh and avoid endless revisions.
If needed, we adjust together on the day.

If you’d prefer to review and develop the design in advance, that can be arranged as a separate, fully dedicated design session.

Can I reschedule or cancel my appointment? What’s the policy?

I understand my policy isn’t for everyone, and that’s completely fine. I don’t build my business around cancellations, last-minute changes, or constant diary management. The reason I can give every client my full attention is because once a session is booked, that time is protected. If you’re unsure whether you’ll be able to attend, I’d genuinely recommend waiting until you’re certain before booking. I don’t take responsibility for managing other people’s calendars, work schedules, holidays, or personal commitments. That’s why all payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If that doesn’t feel right for you, there’s absolutely no hard feelings—I’m probably not the right artist for your project, and it’s better we find that out now than after you’ve booked. If, however, you’re ready to commit, you’ll get exactly the same commitment from me. Tattooing became my life, I put everything into every project, and having clear, non-negotiable booking policies is what allows me to meet great passionate people to share tattoos with and to do that consistently.

What styles do you work in?

I work in illustrative realism — a mix of structure, depth, and painterly approach.

That includes colour work, black and grey, and larger compositions built to flow with the body.

How do you ensure the tattoo will heal properly?

I don’t heal the tattoo — you do.

My job is to apply it with the right technique, saturation, and care so your skin gets the best possible start. Your job is to follow the aftercare properly — keep it clean, don’t pick at it, and give it the time it needs.

It’s a simple bit of teamwork. I set it up right, and you make sure it heals the way it should.

Can I bring someone with me?

Your friend are welcome to come in with you for a quick hello, but they can’t stay for the session. Our studio isn’t a walk-in shop—it’s a private space where multiple artists work with their own clients. To keep the environment safe, discreet, and focused, only those getting tattooed stay in the studio.

Can I get a copy of the tattoo aftercare instructions?

Yes. I’ve created a free downloadable aftercare guide that covers the essentials.
You can download it here:
The Complete Tattoo Aftercare Handbook

If you want the full version with my full prep protocol, product breakdowns, and healing advice,
you can join my fill out the form on my website to join the private newsletter.

I want to book on a specific day (like Sunday or Tuesday), but it’s not available — what should I do?

The booking system is simple and designed for direct use — if a date isn’t visible, it means:

  • It’s already booked
  • Or it falls on one of my personal days off

That said — if you’re travelling from afar, I do occasionally offer private sessions on off-days.
These require a high rate and significant advance notice.

If your request is less than two weeks away, chances are we simply won’t be able to make it happen logistically — especially for large projects.

If you’re still interested despite the above, feel free to reach out by email with your situation.

Will my tattoo be completely gone?

Some tattoos vanish entirely, others fade to the point where they’re barely visible — but full removal isn’t guaranteed for everyone. It depends on pigment type, how deep it was packed in, how your skin responds, and how well your body clears out the broken-down particles. We won’t know the outcome upfront, and anyone who says otherwise is guessing. I’ll guide you through the process honestly, based on visible progress.

When do results start showing?

You’ll usually see changes within a few sessions, especially with black or older tattoos. But fading happens gradually — the laser does its job instantly, but your body needs weeks to flush out the pigment. That’s why sessions are spaced apart. Trying to speed it up only slows your healing. Real progress takes consistency and time, not shortcuts.

Do you tattoo 16-year-olds with parental consent?

No — and legally, no one in the UK should.
Under the Tattooing of Minors Act 1969 (and the Northern Ireland Order 1979), it’s illegal to tattoo anyone under 18, even with a parent’s consent.
That “with parents’ permission” idea is just a myth, likely borrowed from body piercing rules, which are completely different. Piercings (non intimate) can sometimes be done on minors with parental consent — tattoos cannot.

If a studio agrees to tattoo someone under 18, it’s a strong sign they’re either lacking knowledge in general, are unaware of the law or ignoring it entirely, which raises serious questions about hygiene, safety, and ethics of said studio.

Once you turn 18, I’ll be happy to help you plan something properly and safely.


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