Our Process
From idea to reality and everything in between.
Reserve your spot
Step 1: Eligibility & Booking
- Must be 18 or older and present a valid photo ID
- Must be 16-18 with on-site parental consent and a valid ID or birth certificate
- Check artist portfolios to find the right style match
- Book online, call, or stop in—a non-refundable deposit secures your slot
- A $50 non-refundable deposit is required upon scheduling.
- We require a minimum 48-hour cancellation notice to retain your deposit
- Ensure your skin is well-hydrated and free of sunburn to avoid rescheduling
Get ready for your session
Step 2: Prepare for Your Visit
- Gather any reference images or sketches to share with your artist
- Eat a solid meal, stay hydrated and dress comfortably for sitting
- Avoid alcohol or recreational drugs for 24 hours beforehand
- Have your payment ready (cash, card, digital wallets accepted)
- Consider the placement of the tattoo and dress accordingly
What to expect in the chair
Step 3: During Your Session
- We’ll review your design, placement, and size before inking
- A stencil goes on first, so you can approve the positioning
- Expect some discomfort—just let us know if you need a quick break
- Feel free to bring headphones, a pillow, or snacks to stay comfy
- Wear loose and lightweight clothing over the tattoo to reduce friction and allow airflow.
- Ask questions at any time; communication keeps things smooth
Protect your fresh ink
Step 4: Immediate Aftercare
- Keep your bandage on for 1 to 2 hours after your tattoo is finished.
- Remove the bandage gently and wash your tattoo thoroughly using warm water and a mild, fragrance-free, and dye-free antibacterial soap.
- Use your hands, not a cloth or sponge, to wash the area.
- Pat the area dry using a clean paper towel or towel. Do not rub the skin to avoid irritation.
- With clean hands, apply a thin coat of ointment. Do not use alcohol-based products.
- Blot away any excess ointment using a clean paper towel. Your skin must be able to breathe, so avoid applying ointment too heavily.
- Do not re-bandage your tattoo unless you are specifically instructed to do so.
- Wear loose and lightweight clothing over the tattoo to reduce friction and allow airflow.
- Avoid contact with dust, dirt, grease, pet hair, and other contaminants that could increase the risk of infection.
- Treat your new tattoo as a controlled abrasion. Keep it clean and dry for the best possible healing outcome.
Keep your tattoo vibrant
Step 5: Ongoing Aftercare
- Starting on day three, discontinue use of the ointment and apply a fragrance-free, unscented lotion to keep the area moisturized.
- Use lotion sparingly and reapply as needed if the area becomes dry.
- Avoid soaking the tattoo. Do not take baths, use hot tubs, saunas, or pools, or go into the ocean for at least 14 days. Chlorine, saltwater, and prolonged exposure to moisture can bleach or damage the tattoo.
- Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight and away from tanning beds for the first two weeks.
- Do not pick, scratch, or rub your tattoo. As it heals, you may notice light flaking or peeling. This is normal. Let any scabs or flakes fall off naturally.
- Wear clean, loose-fitting clothing over the tattoo, especially when you are in environments with dirt, grease, or chemicals.
- Be sure that anything that touches your tattoo, including towels, bed sheets, and hands, is clean.
- Once your tattoo has finished peeling, it may appear shiny and smooth. This is new skin and part of the natural healing process. Continue using mild lotion to keep it hydrated.
- After your tattoo is fully healed, apply sunscreen when exposed to sunlight to prevent fading and protect your art for years to come.
- Healing usually takes about 14 days, but it can vary based on the size, location, and your skin type.
Have questions or concerns? Contact us today and let us bring your tattoo vision.
FAQs
Have questions? Find the answers below.
How do I get to the shop?
Lady May Tattoo LLC is in Mays Landing Square, 800 Route 50, Mays Landing, NJ 08330. There’s free parking behind the plaza, and we’re just off the Garden State Parkway (exit 20B).
How old do I have to be to get tattooed?
You must be 18 or older and show a valid government-issued photo ID at your appointment.
Must be 16-18 with on-site parental consent and a valid ID or birth certificate
Do I have to leave a deposit?
All appointments require a non-refundable deposit to secure your spot. That deposit will be applied toward your final tattoo cost.
What if I want to book a specific artist?
Book online, stop in, message us on Instagram, reach out on Facebook, or call us to schedule your appointment. Walk-ins are welcome when artists have availability; openings are announced on our social media stories and served on a first-come, first-served basis. We’ll do our best to match you, but popular artists book up fast, so early scheduling is recommended.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Please give us at least 48 hours’ notice by phone or email. Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance result in the loss of the deposit.
What do you recommend for aftercare?
Wash gently with mild, fragrance-free soap and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of ointment for two days, then switch to unscented lotion until healed. Avoid the sun, pools, and hot tubs, and do not pick any scabs.
Can I bring a friend?
Absolutely! One guest is welcome to provide support. Please keep them close by and be considerate of other clients and artists.
Ready to Book Your Session?