Our artists believe in building genuine connections with our clients that go beyond showcasing our work. That's why we invite you to follow us for the latest updates, fun content, and informative media on a wide variety of topics. Get to know the faces and stories behind the body art, and experience the vibrant world of tattoo and piercing artistry.

At Ink Sanctum, it's not just about the art, it's about the people and the connections we make along the way.

Why Downsizing Your Piercing Jewelry is So Important

When you get a new piercing, it’s more than just the jewelry you leave with—it’s the start of a healing journey. At Ink Sanctum, we care about every step of that process, and one of the most important follow-ups after your initial appointment is what we call a downsize.

What is a Downsize?

When a piercing is first performed, your piercer will insert a slightly longer piece of jewelry. This extra length isn’t about style—it’s there to give your body the space it needs to swell and heal in those first few weeks.

After the swelling has gone down, it’s important to return for a downsize appointment. During this visit, the piercer will remove your longer starter jewelry and replace it with a shorter piece that better fits your anatomy and supports healthy healing.

Why Downsizing Matters

Downsizing isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your piercing in the long run. Here’s why it’s so important:

• Prevents Snagging – Shorter jewelry reduces the risk of catching on clothing, hair, or bedding.

• Reduces Irritation & Infection Risk – Jewelry that fits properly sits flush, allowing the piercing to heal cleanly.

• Improves Aesthetics – Downsized jewelry looks neater and feels more natural on your body.

• Protects Against Migration – Jewelry that’s too long can push at an angle when you sleep or bump it. Over time, this can cause the piercing to heal crooked or even migrate out of place.

***If your piercing heals crooked due to lack of downsizing, the only solution is to remove the jewelry, let the area close, and start the process over again. That’s extra time, extra healing, and extra frustration that can easily be avoided with one simple downsize visit.

Protect Your Piercing Investment

A piercing is more than just a quick appointment—it’s a permanent addition to your body. Making sure it heals properly is the best way to protect your investment, and downsizing is a crucial step in that journey.

At Ink Sanctum, we’ll guide you through the entire process—from piercing to aftercare to downsizing—so you can enjoy your new jewelry for years to come.

👉 Ready for your downsize? Book your follow-up with us today and keep your piercing happy, healthy, and looking its best.

Why Can’t I Start With a Hoop?

One of the most common questions we hear at Ink Sanctum is: “Can I start my piercing with a hoop?”
We get it—hoops look stylish, dainty, and effortless. But when it comes to fresh piercings, starting with a hoop is almost always a bad idea. Here’s why.

Movement = Irritation

Unlike a stud, a hoop is constantly shifting. Every time it rotates or wiggles, it can drag tiny amounts of dirt, debris, and bacteria into the piercing channel. That constant motion irritates the tissue and can lead to prolonged swelling, discomfort, or worse—infection.

More Snagging, More Problems

Hoops are also more prone to snagging. Whether it’s on hair, clothing, or even while you sleep, hoops catch far more easily than studs. Each snag can cause micro-tears inside your piercing, which are not only painful but force your body to focus on repairing that damage instead of the piercing itself. This slows down your healing process significantly.

Healing Comes First

We know you want the look of a hoop as soon as possible, but starting with a stud sets you up for success. A stud minimizes movement, lowers the risk of infection, and keeps irritation to a minimum—helping your piercing heal faster and healthier.

Once your piercing is fully healed, we’ll be more than happy to help you switch into the perfect hoop for your style. Think of the stud as the foundation for a lifetime of safe, beautiful jewelry options.

✨ At Ink Sanctum, our priority is making sure your piercing heals correctly the first time. Trust the process, start with a stud, and you’ll be rocking that hoop sooner (and more comfortably) than you think.

👉 Have questions about healing timelines or jewelry options? Book a consultation or stop by the studio—we’ll walk you through every step.

Why Can’t I Get That Piercing at Ink Sanctum?

At Ink Sanctum, we’re passionate about piercing as both an art and a safe form of self-expression. But not every piercing idea you’ve seen online is safe, ethical, or even legal. Part of our job as professional piercers is to educate clients on why certain procedures aren’t offered—and why saying “no” is sometimes the most responsible answer.

Here’s a breakdown of piercings and body mods we do not perform, and the reasons behind it.

Horizontal Tongue Piercings 👅

At first glance, a horizontal piercing across the tongue may look unique—but here’s the science behind why it’s unsafe:

• Your Tongue is Two Muscles – The tongue is technically split into left and right muscles. This is why tongue splits allow each side to move independently. A horizontal tongue piercing runs directly through both halves, binding two muscles together unnaturally.

• Unavoidable Damage – This unnatural tethering causes strain, irritation, and scar tissue that will inevitably result in long-term damage.

• Oral Health Risks – On top of that, the jewelry constantly strikes the teeth and gums, leading to cracks, chips, gum recession, and speech or eating difficulties.

• Healing Problems – The tongue simply isn’t meant to heal this way, which is why nearly all horizontal tongue piercings migrate, reject, or fail.

👉 For these reasons, we do not perform horizontal tongue piercings.

Cheek Piercings (a.k.a. “Dimples”) 😊

Cheek piercings may look cute, but the risks outweigh the aesthetic:

• Permanent Scarring – Even if removed, deep scars almost always remain.

• Salivary Gland Damage – Piercing through the cheeks can hit or damage glands, leading to long-term complications.

• Constant Movement – Talking, chewing, and smiling make this piercing notoriously difficult to heal.

👉 Because of these risks, cheek piercings are on our do-not-offer list.

Coinslots 🪙

You may have seen “coinslot” piercings online, but here’s the truth:

• They’re Not Piercings – A coinslot is a surgical modification that involves cutting cartilage.

• Not Legal in Minnesota – State law prohibits any cutting of cartilage by anyone other than a licensed medical professional. That means coinslots are not only unsafe in a piercing studio setting—they’re illegal for piercers to perform here.
  

Subdermal Implants ✋

Subdermal implants (placing objects beneath the skin to create raised shapes or designs) might look fascinating, but:

• They’re Not Piercings – Like coinslots, implants are a surgical procedure.

• Medical Territory – Piercers are not medical professionals. Procedures that require cutting, inserting objects under the skin, or anything resembling surgery should only be done in a medical setting.

👉 For your safety, we do not and cannot perform subdermal implants.

Why We Sometimes Say “No”

We understand it can be frustrating to hear “no” when you had your heart set on a certain piercing. But when we turn down a request, it’s because:

• It poses serious risks to your health.

• It’s not sustainable or likely to heal.

• It crosses into surgical territory, which legally and ethically belongs to medical professionals—not piercers.
  

What We Do Instead

Our mission is to give you safe, lasting, beautiful piercings. If you ask for something unsafe, we’ll always be happy to:

• Suggest safer alternatives that achieve a similar aesthetic.

• Guide you toward jewelry styles that give you the look you want without unnecessary risk.

• Offer consultations to explain what is possible for your anatomy.
  

✨ At Ink Sanctum, your health and safety come first. We want you to enjoy body art that lasts a lifetime—not something that causes permanent damage or puts you at risk.

👉 Have questions about what’s safe and what’s not? Come talk to us—we’ll always give you the honest truth.

The Art of Anodizing: Adding Color to Your Jewelry

Ever wonder how some titanium or niobium jewelry glows in vibrant purples, blues, or greens—without paint, enamel, or coatings? At Ink Sanctum, we use a process called anodizing to bring these brilliant shades to life. It’s science, it’s safe, and it makes your jewelry as unique as you are.

What is Anodizing?

Anodizing is an electrochemical process that changes the very surface of titanium and niobium jewelry. Instead of applying a layer of color on top, anodizing builds up a microscopic oxide layer that interacts with light—creating a full spectrum of colors that shimmer naturally.

The best part? This color isn’t just for looks. The process actually makes the jewelry more durable while keeping it biocompatible (100% safe for healed piercings).

How Does It Work?

Here’s a peek behind the scenes:

• Step 1: Prep – The jewelry is cleaned thoroughly.

• Step 2: Electrolyte Bath – It’s placed into a special solution.

• Step 3: Electric Current – A controlled electric current passes through, building the oxide layer.

The applied voltage determines the thickness of the layer—and that’s what decides the final color.

The Spectrum of Color

As voltage rises, the colors shift along a rainbow-like spectrum:

• Lower voltages: rich bronze, purple, and blue tones

• Mid-range: brighter hues of aqua, teal, and gold

• Upper range: vibrant greens that practically glow

The only shades anodizing can’t quite hit are red, orange, and true black, but it can get surprisingly close.

Fun fact: since the process “builds up” color, you can only move forward into brighter hues—not back down the spectrum.

Will My Color Last Forever?

Anodized jewelry stays gorgeous for years, but like all body jewelry, the surface can gently dull over time. The good news is—it’s easy to restore! With a quick refresh in the anodizer, your jewelry can shine just as brightly as the day it was first done.

Why Choose Anodized Jewelry?

• Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin

• Strengthens the jewelry’s surface

• No paint, no plating—just pure titanium or niobium

• A huge range of color possibilities to match your style
  

✨ At Ink Sanctum, anodizing is just one of the ways we make sure your jewelry looks and feels incredible. Whether you’re going for subtle shimmer or bold, eye-catching hues, anodized titanium and niobium are the perfect way to express yourself.

👉 Stop by the shop to check out our anodized jewelry selection—or ask us about customizing a piece just for you.

How to Prepare for Your Tattoo Appointment

Getting a tattoo is exciting—it’s art you’ll carry with you for life. At Ink Sanctum, we want to make sure your experience is as comfortable and smooth as possible. A little preparation goes a long way toward helping your artist do their best work and making your appointment stress-free.

The Day Before Your Appointment

• Stay Hydrated 💧
  Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your tattoo. Hydrated skin is healthier, which makes it easier for your artist to work and helps your tattoo heal better.

• Moisturize (But Not the Day Of) 🧴
  If you regularly moisturize, keep up the routine leading up to your appointment. Just skip lotions or oils the morning of—it can interfere with the stencil or tattooing process.

• Avoid Alcohol & Drugs 🚫
  Both thin your blood and make you more likely to bleed during the tattoo, which can affect how your ink heals. Save the celebrating for at least 48 hours after your session.
  

The Day Of Your Appointment

• Eat a Good Meal 🍽️
  Don’t come in on an empty stomach. Eat a VERY LARGE meal no more than one hour before your tattoo appointment. Get totally STUFFED kind of full. This helps blood sugar stable, which helps you feel more comfortable during the session, and your skin will be more adequately prepared for the tattoo vs. not. 

• Be Well Rested
  Get a good 8+ hour sleep the night before your appointment.

• Be Under Little “Life Stress”
  Everyday life is stressful, we get it. But what we are talking about is the MEGA life stresses. Such as the loss of a pet or loved one, life-altering financial crisis, car accident, etc. These types of stresses trigger the body’s fight-or-flight response, and your skin will not cooperate during the tattoo session. Even if you think coming in to get some pain therapy will take your mind off the traumatic experience, TRUST US… it won’t. Just reschedule your appointment. We are understanding in these situations.

• Dress Comfortably 👕
  Wear loose, comfortable clothing that gives your artist easy access to the area being tattooed. Dark fabrics are best—ink stains are permanent.

• Bring ID 🪪
  We’ll need to verify your age and ID before starting any tattoo.

• Pack the Essentials 🎒

• Water bottle

• Snacks for longer sessions. One-handed snacks are best. Protein/granola bars, grapes, mini candies, mini sandwiches/sliders, etc.

• Headphones, music, or a show to watch (helps pass the time). Not necessary, however… our artists are FANTASTIC conversationalists :)

• A hoodie or blanket if you tend to get cold

• Consume Collagen (recommended but not required)

  We find that taking collagen a few days leading up to your appointment, even just the day of, reduces skin trauma and makes the tattoo process go more smoothly for some clients. Throw some powder into a shake or smoothie, or pill form is also available. Please make sure you do not have any allergies to collagen, and that consuming it is not against doctor’s orders for any reason, including any interaction with any supplements or medications that you are currently taking.
  

During Your Appointment

• Relax & Communicate 🗣️
  Your artist is there to guide you through the process. If you need a break, let them know.

• Stay Still and BREATHE ✋
  It’s normal to feel nervous, but try your best to stay steady so your artist can create clean, precise work. Breathe in and out during the tattoo, do NOT hold your breath in anticipation when the needle goes into your skin. This is a meditative and transformative experience, to which the breath is essential.

• Trust the Process 🎨
  We’re here to give you the best tattoo possible. Sit back, breathe, and enjoy the experience.
  

Aftercare Starts Here

Your tattoo journey doesn’t end when you leave the studio. Following proper aftercare is essential for keeping your tattoo vibrant and healthy. We’ll go over everything you need to know before you head home. Click here to view our full aftercare instructions for single night and multi-day bandages.

✨ At Ink Sanctum, we’re here to make your tattoo experience comfortable, safe, and unforgettable. Preparing the right way helps set the stage for an amazing piece of art you’ll love for a lifetime.

👉 Ready to book your appointment? Contact us today and let’s create something permanent together.

Did You Know Autumn and Winter Are the Best Times to Get Tattooed or Pierced? 🍂❄️

Most people think of summer when they picture showing off fresh tattoos or piercings—but here’s a little insider tip: fall and winter are actually the best seasons to get new body art. At Ink Sanctum, we recommend scheduling your next tattoo or piercing in the cooler months, and here’s why:

1. Less Sun, Less Stress 🌞➡️❌

The sun might feel good on your skin, but it’s not your tattoo or piercing’s best friend. UV rays can cause irritation, fading, and slower healing. Since we’re bundled up more in fall and winter, your fresh ink or jewelry is naturally protected.

2. No Swimming, No Worries 🏊‍♀️🚫

Summertime means pools, lakes, and beaches—but submerging a fresh tattoo or piercing is a big no-no. In the cooler months, you’re less tempted to swim, which means fewer chances for infection or complications.

3. Layers Protect & Conceal 🧥

Long sleeves, hoodies, and scarves help shield your new tattoo or piercing from dirt, bacteria, and accidental bumps. Plus, if you want to keep your new piece a secret until it’s fully healed, cooler weather makes it easy.

4. Heal Now, Show Off Later 🌸☀️

Healing takes time. By starting in the fall or winter, your body art has plenty of time to heal properly before spring and summer roll around. That way, when the sun comes out, you’ll be ready to show off healed, vibrant tattoos and fully settled piercings.

5. More Availability, Less Wait 📅

Autumn and winter tend to be less hectic for studios compared to summer. That means you’re more likely to snag your preferred artist, time slot, and even longer sessions if you’re working on a bigger piece.

✨ At Ink Sanctum, we’re here year-round, but autumn and winter truly give your tattoos and piercings the best chance to heal clean, vibrant, and strong.

👉 Book your appointment this season and give yourself a head start on next summer’s body art goals!

Can You Tattoo Dark Skin? (Absolutely — Here’s Why)

At Ink Sanctum, we often hear the question: “Can you tattoo dark skin?” The answer is a confident YES. Tattooing is for everyone, and beautiful tattoos can be created on every skin tone. What matters most is the artist’s experience, technique, and design approach.

Why Some People Think Otherwise

There’s a misconception that tattoos don’t “show up” as well on darker skin tones. This comes from a history of artists not being trained—or not taking the time—to understand how ink interacts with different complexions. Unfortunately, this has led to misinformation and unnecessary doubt.

The truth is: tattoos look incredible on dark skin when designed and applied with skill.

Why Tattoos Work on All Skin Tones

1. The Ink Goes Below the Skin

Tattoo ink isn’t applied on the surface—it’s placed in the dermis (the second layer of skin). That means pigment sits below the skin’s surface tone, allowing it to remain visible no matter your complexion.

2. Bold Lines = Timeless Results

Strong, clean linework heals beautifully across all skin tones. Crisp outlines and bold shapes ensure the design remains clear and striking, whether your skin is fair, tan, or deep.

3. Contrast & Design Choices

Skilled artists know how to use contrast—pairing bold blacks, rich shading, and intentional negative space (your natural skin tone) to make tattoos pop. Certain colors also complement darker complexions especially well, such as reds, greens, and warm tones.

4. Healing and Longevity

All tattoos fade a little over time, regardless of skin tone. Proper aftercare and touch-ups when needed are what keep tattoos vibrant—not skin color. With the right care, tattoos on dark skin age just as beautifully as they do on lighter skin.

Choosing the Right Artist Matters

Not every tattoo artist has the same level of experience working across a variety of skin tones. At Ink Sanctum, our artists are trained to create designs that highlight contrast, flow with your body, and heal cleanly on any complexion.

✨ The bottom line: Yes, you can tattoo dark skin—and the results can be stunning. What matters most is the artistry, placement, and care.

👉 Ready to start your design? Book a consultation at Ink Sanctum today and let’s create something bold, beautiful, and lasting—on your canvas.