Are you getting a tattoo or piercing for the first time? We understand that you have some questions about this. That is why we have listed the most frequently asked questions for you. Is your question not listed? Please contact us. We will be happy to explain the process to you.
How much does it cost to get a tattoo?
We can’t just indicate the prices of tattoos on the website. The price depends on the size, the place on the body and the design. Would you like a price indication? Then send an email to info@amsterdam-tattooing.com or visit our studio.
Can I get tattooed on the day of arrival in Amsterdam?
Yes, you are most welcome for a walk-in tattoo. There is an artist present every day to make a spontaneous (small) tattoo. Please note: you can only pay cash with us.
Does getting a tattoo hurt?
This is a difficult question to answer. Everyone’s pain threshold is different and the location of the tattoo also determines the sensitivity of tattooing. The thinner the skin and the closer we tattoo to the bone, the more sensitive it will be.
Where does getting a tattoo hurt the most?
Getting a tattoo in the arm crease, armpits, ribs, pubic area and the back of the knee hurts the most. The upper chest, arms and legs hurt the least. Some people experience pain faster and more than others.
How would you describe the feeling of getting a tattoo?
We describe it as a scratchy feeling. This can be annoying, but not necessarily very painful. Some people have a different experience of pain than others.
How long does it take for a tattoo to heal?
The healing process of a tattoo takes about 2 to 3 weeks.
How can I prepare for the appointment?
How do I choose a design?
The design you want to have done is entirely up to you. Looking for inspiration? Check out our artists’ portfolios and their available designs or visit our studio at Nieuwezijds Armsteeg 4 and browse through our tattoo books. When you contact us, please keep the following in mind:
How big should a tattoo be?
That is entirely up to you. For large, complicated tattoos, make an appointment in advance.
How long does it take to get a tattoo?
The length of the appointment depends on the size and complexity of the tattoo. If you would like to know how long it will take for you, please contact us.
How does getting a tattoo work?
How old do you have to be to get a tattoo?
We do not tattoo people under the age of 16. We do not make any exceptions, even if you have permission from your parents or guardian. From the age of 16 and older, a parent or guardian no longer needs to give permission. You can then make an appointment with us to get a tattoo.
How do I care for a new tattoo?
A new tattoo is comparable to a graze. If you take poor and unhygienic care of the tattoo, it will cause wound infections and scar tissue, which will make your tattoo look less attractive.
It is important to clean the tattoo thoroughly 3 to 4 times a day in the first 2 weeks. Do this with cold or lukewarm water and antibacterial soap. Dry the tattoo carefully with a paper towel or clean towel (dab, do not rub) or let it dry naturally. Then massage the tattoo with Bepanthen ointment or Calendula cream. If you have any questions during the healing process, you can always contact us by calling 020 620 6932 or by visiting us.
Can I swim after getting a tattoo?
At Amsterdam Tattooing we advise to wait at least 3 weeks before swimming.
Can I sunbathe after getting a tattoo?
It is not advisable to sunbathe with a new tattoo. We strongly recommend covering the tattoo for the first 4 weeks. Afterwards, always apply a sunscreen with a high SPF to the tattoo to prevent damage.
Can I go to the sauna after getting a tattoo?
We recommend waiting at least 3 weeks before going to the sauna. The tattooed area is vulnerable and when you soften the skin (by moisturizing it), bacteria will have free rein and will damage the tattoo.
Do not go to the sauna again until the skin is completely smooth and no longer sensitive.
When can I exercise again?
When you can exercise again depends on the type of tattoo, the intensity of the workout and which sport you are going to do. Did you get a small tattoo? Then exercising is no problem. With a large tattoo, for example a huge tattoo on the back, it is wise to give the tattoo at least a day to recover. If you are going to exercise afterwards, always make sure that you clean the tattoo well after exercising.
What tattoo styles do you do?
Our tattoo shop works with regular artists and guest artists. On our artists page you will find the tattoo artists and their styles. Send us your ideas for a tattoo and we will put you in touch with the best specialist for your tattoo.
Some examples of our styles are: realism, lettering, mandala, old school, neo classic, trash polka, dotwork, black and grey, Japanese, maori, Chicano and cover ups of old tattoos.
How quickly does a color tattoo fade?
The older the tattoo, the more it will fade. For some people, this process goes faster than for others. The location also determines whether the tattoo fades faster. To keep the tattoo beautiful, you must continue to take good care of it and hydrate it. The longer the skin remains good, the longer the tattoo will remain beautiful. The sun is the biggest enemy of the color pigments in the tattoo. Therefore, use sunscreen with the highest possible factor.
How fast does a black and gray tattoo fade?
Over the years, a tattoo fades. For some people, this happens faster than for others. For example, a tattoo can also fade faster on fingers than another place on the body. It is therefore important to continue to take good care of and hydrate the tattoo. The lighter the color, the faster the tattoo fades. A dark tattoo will therefore fade less quickly than one with colors.
Can a scar be tattooed?
To tattoo on a tattoo we must first assess the skin and it is important that the scar is at least 2-5 years old.
I'm pregnant. Can I get a tattoo?
No, if you are pregnant, the GGD advises against getting a tattoo. Not only because the skin changes during pregnancy, which can make the tattoo look deformed, but also because of an increased sensitivity to infections that can be harmful to the unborn baby. In addition, when getting a tattoo, ink enters the bloodstream. It is not clear whether the ink is harmful to the unborn baby, so it is better not to take any risks.
Is it possible to get a temporary tattoo?
No, a tattoo is not temporary, but permanent. Do you regret a tattoo? Then make an appointment to have the tattoo removed.
Do you do tattoo touch-ups free of charge?
In the first 3 weeks of the healing period, it is possible that something has happened to the tattoo. In that case, please contact us as soon as possible. Within 4 weeks, a tattoo touch-up is free of charge – if really necessary. The artist will assess the seriousness of the case and whether it can be touched up free of charge.
In places where fading normally occurs (fingers, palm of the hand, under the foot), a touch-up is not free.
I am taking medication. Can I get a tattoo?
If you are taking medication or have a medical condition, we advise you to always consult your doctor first to determine whether it is wise to have a tattoo, piercing or permanent make-up applied.
How much does it cost to get a piercing?
The prices for placing a piercing differ depending on the type of piercing. At Amsterdam Tattooing you can already get a piercing for € 25,- each. View our price list for a piercing for the current overview.
Does getting a piercing hurt?
Getting a piercing takes a few seconds. An experienced piercer from Amsterdam Tattooing will quickly place the piercing, so you will only feel a prick for a short while.
How old do you have to be to get a piercing?
We do not pierce children under the age of 12. No exceptions. Between the ages of 12 and 16, you may only get a piercing with the permission of your parents or guardian in their presence. For these ages, we do not pierce the face, neck, wrists, hands, genitals and nipples.
From the age of 16 and older, you can decide for yourself whether to get a piercing and where you want to get it. We only pierce intimate and nipple piercings from the age of 18. Don’t forget to bring your ID.
Do I need to make an appointment to get a piercing?
There is no need to make an appointment for a piercing. You can always walk in to get a piercing done by our professional and hygienic piercers.
What material is the piercing made of?
Our piercings are made of surgical steel and titanium.
How should I care for my piercing?
A piercing can be compared to a deep wound in your skin. After the piercing has been done, the piercer will give you verbal and written instructions on how to properly care for the piercing. The wound needs time to heal. During this time, touch your piercing as little as possible and make sure that your hands are properly disinfected when cleaning the piercing. For more information, see our piercing page. Checks are free, so if you have a problem, call 020 620 6932 or come by.
How long does it take for my piercing to heal?
The list below describes the average healing time. Your overall health, stress levels, and other physical or mental factors may influence the healing process.
| Earlobe | 6–9 weeks |
| Ear cartilage | 3–9 months |
| Nostril / Septum | 8–10 weeks |
| Lip / Labret | 8–10 weeks |
| Nipples | 3–9 months |
| Navel | 6–9 months |
| Inner labia / Clitoral hood | 4–6 weeks |
| Prince Albert | 6–8 weeks |
| Frenum | 6–8 weeks |
| Eyebrow | 6–8 weeks |
| Foreskin / Hafada | 6–8 weeks |
| Tongue | 4–6 weeks |
| Outer labia / Dydoe | 3–6 months |
| Guiche / Ampallang / Apadravya | 3–6 months |
When is a piercing infected?
It is normal for a piercing to be a little red and sensitive for the first few days after it has been placed, and for wound fluid to come out. These symptoms will disappear after a few days. If this is not the case and you are experiencing the following symptoms, do not hesitate to visit our shop or call 020 620 6932. Do not remove the jewelry before a specialist has examined it.
What should I do if my piercing is infected?
Come to our shop as soon as possible. Our specialists will then look at the situation. Do not remove the piercing yourself before a specialist has looked at it.
What does it mean when a piercing grows out?
Outgrowth or rejection of a piercing can occur anywhere. The jewelry is then pushed out of the skin and becomes increasingly visible. It is important that the piercing is removed in time, otherwise a scar will form.
Will I have a scar if I remove my piercing?
Not always, but it is possible that you will have a scar after removing the piercing. It depends on the skin and is therefore different for each person.
Can I get a piercing during my pregnancy?
No, we do not pierce when you are pregnant. Your body is busy with other things than healing the wound of a piercing. Because of this, there is a big chance that it will not look nice. In addition, there is a chance that you will get an infection and that puts the unborn baby at unnecessary risk.
Should I remove my piercing during pregnancy?
Wearing a navel piercing can be uncomfortable and some people remove the piercing for this reason. There are special pregnancy piercings. These are longer and more flexible and can be worn during pregnancy.
You can keep a nipple piercing during pregnancy. When the birth is imminent, we recommend removing the piercing so that the nipple can heal, you do not suffer from it during labor and you can breastfeed.
When can I change the piercing jewelry?
The healing period is not the same for every piercing. The piercer at Amsterdam Tattooing will tell you after placement when you can change your jewelry. Are you unsure whether you can change yet? Then call 020 620 6932 or visit our shop.
Can I change my piercing myself?
That’s okay! Often you can do it yourself, but if this is not the case because a piercing is difficult to open and close or you find it difficult or annoying to do it yourself, you can also come to the shop.
How often are the piercing needles used?
We only use the needle once. This needle comes from a sterile package. After applying the piercing, we throw the needle in the needle container.
How do I know if the work is being done hygienically?
Amsterdam Tattooing is a GGD-certified shop with experienced and skilled piercers. All needles, piercings and pliers are sterile packed and we work with gloves. Our materials and pliers are sterilized/pretreated in an ultrasonic and autoclave.
I am taking medication. Can I get a piercing?
We recommend that you first consult your doctor to determine whether it is wise to have a tattoo, piercing or permanent make-up if you are taking medication or have a medical condition.
How many piercings can you get at once?
Usually we can do about 5 piercings at the same time. For example: navel, double helix left ear and double helix right ear. Do you want to have multiple piercings done at the same time? Discuss the possibilities with the piercer.
Is a tongue piercing bad for your teeth?
In principle, a tongue piercing does not touch your teeth. So it cannot damage your teeth. If you play a lot with your piercing in your mouth, it can damage your teeth. You can also choose to have a plastic rod or ball put in. That does not damage your teeth at all. Of course, good oral hygiene is also important.
Will the metal detector at Schiphol set off if I have a piercing?
No, the metal detector doesn’t go off when you go through customs. It’s just a small amount of steel.
Do intimate piercings hinder sex?
No, it often increases the pleasure. With some intimate piercings for men, it is wiser to remove jewelry before having sex, because otherwise it is painful.
Can I drink alcohol or use drugs beforehand because I am nervous?
No, we strongly advise against this. Alcohol thins your blood and using drugs can actually make the pain experience more intense.
How do I make an appointment?
To make an appointment at Amsterdam Tattooing, you can email info@amsterdam-tattooing.com or call 020 620 6932. Or send us a message on Facebook or Instagram.
You are also very welcome in our studio at Nieuwezijds Armsteeg 4. Browse through our tattoo books, tell us what kind of tattoo you are thinking of and we will give you advice and a price indication. Curious about the styles we specialize in? Then take a look at the artists page.
When you contact us, please provide us with the following:
For a piercing, you can come to us without an appointment. There is always someone present who can place the piercing.
Can I cancel an appointment?
Sometimes it is possible that you have to cancel the appointment for good reasons. Appointments can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance. The deposit will then be returned, so that you can make a new appointment. If you do not make a new appointment with us or do not show up, the deposit will be forfeited.
How can I pay you?
At Amsterdam Tattooing you can pay by debit card or cash.
Do you work hygienically?
Amsterdam Tattooing is a GGD-certified tattoo and piercing shop. This means that the GGD has conducted an inspection and has given us a permit, because we work hygienically. All our materials are sterile packed and we work with gloves.
Have you been around for long?
Peter Twigt opened the first shop ‘Tattoo art studio Peter’ in 1983 in the Nieuwe Nieuwstraat in Amsterdam. In 1986 he opened the business ‘Amsterdam Tattooing’ at the current location in the Nieuwezijds Armsteeg 4 in Amsterdam. So we have almost 40 years of experience in the business.
What does your studio look like?
The shop is decorated with a lot of traditional Japanese work and we have a large circle of regular customers for specialist work. There is also a large number of people who get a tattoo for the first time. In the past twenty years, the shop has undergone many metamorphoses. For example, the ground floor has been divided into a welcome area and Peter’s workplace. For a tattoo in Amsterdam, come to Amsterdam Tattooing.
Are you open on public holidays?
Yes, we are also open on:
Can I also come by without an appointment?
Yes, we do small walk-in tattoos and you can always get a piercing without an appointment.
What can I contact you for?
You can contact us for getting a tattoo or piercing, removing a tattoo and various training courses.
Can I also become a tattoo artist?
Yes, you can learn to become a real tattoo artist with us. For more information, visit Amsterdamtattooingacademy.nl. Please note: this is a real training course. So you can only come to us if you have a clear affinity with tattoos and can draw well.
Can I also learn how to place piercings?
Yes, you can learn to do piercings with us. For more information, visit Amsterdamtattooingacademy.nl Please note: this is a real training course. So you can only come to us if you have a clear affinity with piercings.
Can I follow you on social media?
Do you also work with guest artists?
Yes, keep an eye on our artists page for that. Amsterdam Tattooing works with tattoo artists from all over the world. They come to work in the shop for a certain period of time. We have had guest artists from countries such as Spain, the US, Italy, France, Russia. Each artist brings his or her own style and specialty to our shop.
If you have any questions about placing a tattoo or piercing? You are more than welcome in our Tattoo Studio in Amsterdam. Our floor manager is always present to answer all your questions.
About Us
Our shop is located near Amsterdam Central Station:
Amsterdam Tattooing & Body Piercing
N.Z. Armsteeg 4
1012 NB Amsterdam
Our Services
Opening Hours
| Monday | 12:00 – 19:00 |
| Tuesday | 11:00 – 19:00 |
| Wednesday | 11:00 – 19:00 |
| Thursday | 11:00 – 19:00 |
| Friday | 11:00 – 19:00 |
| Saturday | 11:00 – 19:00 |
| Sunday | 12:00 – 19:00 |
We are also open on:
December 25, 26 (Christmas) → 12:00 – 19:00
December 31 (New Year’s Eve) → 12:00 – 19:00
January 1 (New Year’s Day) → 13:00 – 19:00
April 27 (King’s Day) → 12:00 – 19:00
