Tattoo Myths Debunked | Ethereal Tattoo Gallery, Durham NC

Thinking about your next tattoo? Let’s clear up some of the most common tattoo myths we hear in the studio. Whether you’re booking a bold black and grey piece or a delicate fine line tattoo, it helps to know the facts — especially if it’s your first time getting tattooed in Durham, NC.

At Ethereal Tattoo Gallery, we focus on custom tattoos done right. Let’s set the record straight on a few common misconceptions:

Myth 1: “White Ink Hurts More”

We hear this all the time — but here’s the truth:
The ink itself doesn’t hurt more. White ink is usually added at the end of your tattoo session, once the skin is already irritated. That’s why it feels more intense by that point. But white ink isn’t inherently more painful than other pigments.

If you’re getting fine line work with white accents, it helps to understand this ahead of time so there are no surprises.

Myth 2: “Your Tattoo Should Scab Thick to Heal Right”

Thick scabs are NOT a sign of proper healing. In fact, big scabs can mean the skin was overworked or your aftercare routine isn’t ideal.

A healthy healing process for tattoos — especially fine line tattoos — looks more like light peeling, similar to a sunburn. That peeling might reveal slightly uneven color at first, but it’s part of the process. Thick scabbing, however, risks pulling ink out or damaging your tattoo.

Myth 3: “You Can Use Numbing Cream Without Telling Your Artist”

We get it — no one loves pain. But not all numbing products are tattoo-safe. Some numbing creams can change how your skin reacts, swell the area, or impact how the ink settles, especially with precise styles like fine line tattoos.

Always check with your artist before using numbing cream. At Ethereal Tattoo Gallery, our team will guide you on whether numbing products are safe for your session, depending on your skin, placement, and design.

Myth 4: “You Can’t Get Tattooed If You’re on Your Period”

There’s no official rule saying you can’t get tattooed during your period. But some people do experience heightened pain sensitivity during their cycle.

Totally your call — listen to your body. If you’re worried about discomfort, communicate with your artist ahead of time so we can make the process as comfortable as possible.

Myth 5: “Your Tattoo Looks Patchy While Healing — It’s Ruined”

It’s completely normal for tattoos to look patchy or uneven during the peeling stage. It might even seem like the ink is falling out — but this is just part of the healing process.

Fine line tattoos, in particular, can appear faint or inconsistent at first. Full healing usually takes several weeks. Don’t judge your lines or shading until the tattoo is fully healed.

Myth 6: “Drinking Before a Tattoo Helps with Pain”

Definitely false — and potentially dangerous.

Alcohol thins your blood, which can cause excessive bleeding during your tattoo session. This not only complicates the process but can also affect how your tattoo heals.

The best approach? Show up hydrated, fed, and sober. Your artist will take care of the rest.

Getting a Tattoo in Durham NC? We’ve Got You Covered

At Ethereal Tattoo Gallery, we believe informed clients have the best tattoo experience. Whether you’re booking a bold black and grey design or a minimalist fine line tattoo in Durham, our team is here to walk you through the process, bust myths, and make sure you leave with art you love.

Have questions? Ready to book? Click here to explore our artists’ portfolios and schedule your appointment.