How should I clean my new piercing?

The only product you should use is a sterile saline wound wash. Spray the solution directly onto the front and back of the piercing twice a day. Gently dry the area using non-woven gauze or a clean paper towel. Absolutely avoid harsh chemicals like rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or tea tree oil, as they will aggressively dry out and damage the healing tissue.

Should I twist or rotate the jewelry during healing?

No, you must never twist, turn, or move the jewelry. The body heals by forming a delicate tissue tube called a fistula around the metal. Rotating the jewelry tears this fragile new tissue, restarting the healing process and significantly increasing the risk of irritation bumps and infection. Leave the jewelry completely alone unless you are actively cleaning it.

What is the crusty buildup around my piercing, and should I remove it?

The crust that forms around the jewelry is dried lymph fluid, which is a perfectly normal byproduct of the body's natural healing system. Do not pick at these crusts with your fingernails. Instead, allow the warm water in the shower or your saline spray to soften them, and gently wipe them away with clean gauze. Forcing them off will cause unnecessary trauma to the site.

When do I need to downsize my piercing jewelry?

Initial piercings are performed with slightly longer jewelry to accommodate the inevitable swelling that occurs during the first few weeks. Once this initial swelling subsides, the longer bar can snag easily and alter the angle of the piercing. We require you to return to the studio for a downsizing appointment so we can install a properly fitted post, ensuring long-term structural stability.

Can I go swimming with a fresh piercing?

You must avoid submerging your fresh piercing in bodies of water, including the ocean, swimming pools, hot tubs, and even bath water, for at least two to three months. These environments harbor bacteria that can easily lead to severe infections. If exposure is absolutely unavoidable, you must seal the area with a waterproof wound bandage and clean it thoroughly with saline immediately afterward.

How long does a piercing take to heal?

Healing times vary drastically depending on the placement. Lobes and oral piercings may heal in 6-8 weeks, while cartilage (like a Helix or Conch) and surface piercings can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to fully stabilize. We will give you specific timelines during your visit.

When can I safely expose my tattoo to the sun or go swimming?

Keep your fresh tattoo completely out of direct sunlight and avoid submerging it in water for at least three to four weeks. This strict rule means no pools, oceans, saunas, or hot tubs. Even after the tattoo is fully healed, you must apply a high SPF sunscreen to the area whenever it is exposed to protect the ink from fading over the years.

Does getting a tattoo hurt?

Pain is subjective and varies greatly depending on the placement on your body and your personal tolerance. We maintain a calm, highly focused environment to make the process as comfortable as possible. Your artist will communicate with you throughout the entire session and accommodate short breaks if necessary.

What kind of jewelry do you use for initial piercings?

We exclusively use implant-grade titanium and premium biocompatible materials for all initial placements. These high-end metals are entirely hypoallergenic and provide maximum structural stability for healing tissue. By avoiding low-quality materials like standard surgical steel, we completely eliminate the risk of nickel allergies, skin irritation, or body rejection.

How do I take care of my new tattoo?

Proper aftercare is entirely your responsibility once you leave the chair, and it is crucial for a solid heal. We will provide you with clear, physical instructions at the end of your session. Generally, this involves keeping the fresh tattoo clean, applying specific ointments, and avoiding direct sunlight, sea water, and pools for several weeks.

What are the age requirements for getting pierced?

We maintain strict age policies depending on the specific anatomy and placement of the piercing. Generally, clients must be at least 18 years old and present a valid, physical ID. Certain basic placements may be performed on minors, but this strictly requires the physical presence and documented, legal consent of a parent or guardian at the studio.

Is it normal for my new tattoo to peel and itch?

Yes, flaking, peeling, and mild itching are entirely normal parts of the natural healing cycle. It is absolutely critical that you do not scratch, pick, or peel the flaking skin away. You must let the dead skin fall off naturally. Forcing it off can pull ink out of the dermis and create patchy, faded spots in your permanent design.

Can I go to the gym or work out after getting tattooed?

We strongly advise avoiding heavy workouts and excessive sweating for the first few days following your session. Stretching the freshly tattooed skin or exposing it to the high-bacteria environment of gym equipment can cause severe irritation or infection. Allow your body the necessary time to rest and begin the initial healing phase properly.

Do I need an appointment for a piercing?

While we do accommodate walk-ins when our daily schedule permits, we highly recommend booking an appointment in advance. Securing a dedicated time slot guarantees that our piercer has ample time for proper anatomical mapping, detailed jewelry selection, and the precise execution of your modification without any interruptions.

How painful is the piercing process?

The sensation is extremely brief and entirely manageable. Because we utilize razor-sharp hollow needles and employ professional breathing and synchronization techniques during the procedure, the physical process is over in a matter of seconds. Our clinical, focused environment is specifically designed to keep you calm and ensure the experience is as comfortable as possible.

Can I bring my own design or reference pictures?

Yes, reference materials are highly encouraged to help us understand your visual direction. However, we do not directly copy other artists' custom tattoos. Our resident artists will use your references as a foundation to design a unique, original piece that flows naturally with your anatomy.

How should I clean my new piercing?

The only product you should use is a sterile saline wound wash. Spray the solution directly onto the front and back of the piercing twice a day. Gently dry the area using non-woven gauze or a clean paper towel. Absolutely avoid harsh chemicals like rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or tea tree oil, as they will aggressively dry out and damage the healing tissue.

When do I need to downsize my piercing jewelry?

Initial piercings are performed with slightly longer jewelry to accommodate the inevitable swelling that occurs during the first few weeks. Once this initial swelling subsides, the longer bar can snag easily and alter the angle of the piercing. We require you to return to the studio for a downsizing appointment so we can install a properly fitted post, ensuring long-term structural stability.

Is the initial piercing jewelry included in the price?

Yes, the total cost of your piercing procedure completely covers the initial implant-grade jewelry required for a safe and stable healing process. This foundational piece is specifically sized to accommodate any initial swelling and ensure proper structural healing without complications. Once your modification has fully healed and the tissue has settled, you have the opportunity to upgrade your setup. We invite you to explore our dedicated online shop, where you can browse a curated collection of premium, avant-garde, and statement piercing jewelry designed to elevate your personal aesthetic.

What is the crusty buildup around my piercing, and should I remove it?

The crust that forms around the jewelry is dried lymph fluid, which is a perfectly normal byproduct of the body's natural healing system. Do not pick at these crusts with your fingernails. Instead, allow the warm water in the shower or your saline spray to soften them, and gently wipe them away with clean gauze. Forcing them off will cause unnecessary trauma to the site.

What should I do if my tattoo looks red or feels overly warm?

Mild redness and a slight warm sensation are normal for the first day or two as your body reacts to the procedure. However, if the redness expands, the heat persists, or you notice unusual swelling and severe pain, contact our studio immediately. We maintain a clean, clinical environment, but post-session hygiene is your responsibility, and we are here to guide you if anything feels off.

How should I prepare for my tattoo session?

Arrive well-rested, fully hydrated, and ensure you have eaten a solid meal before sitting in the chair. Avoid alcohol, heavy caffeine, or blood-thinning medications for at least 24 hours prior to your appointment. We also suggest wearing comfortable, loose clothing that allows the artist easy access to the area being tattooed.

What metal is best for a new piercing?

We exclusively use Implant-Grade Titanium (ASTM F136) and Biocompatible Gold for all initial piercings. These materials are completely hypoallergenic, nickel-free, and will not oxidize or irritate a fresh wound.

Can I bring my own jewelry to be pierced with?

For your absolute safety and to uphold our strict sterilization standards, we do not perform procedures using outside jewelry. We cannot verify the exact metallurgical composition, micro-surface finish, or sterility of pieces brought in from elsewhere. You must select a piece from our curated, high-quality studio collection for the initial piercing.

Can I go swimming with a fresh piercing?

You must avoid submerging your fresh piercing in bodies of water, including the ocean, swimming pools, hot tubs, and even bath water, for at least two to three months. These environments harbor bacteria that can easily lead to severe infections. If exposure is absolutely unavoidable, you must seal the area with a waterproof wound bandage and clean it thoroughly with saline immediately afterward.

Should I twist or rotate the jewelry during healing?

No, you must never twist, turn, or move the jewelry. The body heals by forming a delicate tissue tube called a fistula around the metal. Rotating the jewelry tears this fragile new tissue, restarting the healing process and significantly increasing the risk of irritation bumps and infection. Leave the jewelry completely alone unless you are actively cleaning it.

How do I book a custom tattoo appointment at Unclechronis?

You can initiate the process by filling out our online booking form with your concept, desired size, and placement. Our team will review your request and pair you with the best artist for your specific style to schedule an in-person or digital consultation.

Can you fix or cover up an old tattoo?

Yes, we are highly experienced in complex cover-ups and reworks. Because cover-ups require specific techniques to hide dark lines, we require a consultation to evaluate your existing tattoo and design a strategic new piece.

How long does a piercing take to heal?

Healing times vary drastically depending on the placement. Lobes and oral piercings may heal in 6-8 weeks, while cartilage (like a Helix or Conch) and surface piercings can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to fully stabilize. We will give you specific timelines during your visit.

Are your inks and equipment safe?

Absolutely. We operate under the strictest hygiene protocols in Athens. We use 100% single-use, disposable needles, hospital-grade sterilization for our environment, and premium, vegan-friendly inks.

Do you use piercing guns?

Absolutely not. We strictly utilize single-use, medical-grade hollow needles for every procedure. Piercing guns cause unnecessary blunt force trauma to the tissue, harbor dangerous bacteria, and cannot be properly sterilized in an autoclave. Our precise needle methodology ensures a clean, accurate modification with minimal tissue damage and a significantly smoother healing process.

Do you accept walk-ins, or is it strictly by appointment?

While we prioritize scheduled appointments to give custom pieces the intense focus they require, we do welcome walk-ins for flash designs and smaller tattoos if an artist has immediate availability. We recommend calling the studio ahead of time to check our daily schedule.

How much does a custom tattoo cost?

Pricing depends on the size, detail, and placement of the design, as well as the artist's specific project fee. We provide a clear estimate during your consultation once the concept is finalized. Our studio does have a minimum charge to cover the setup of our sterile, single-use equipment, ensuring every procedure meets our strict safety standards.

How often should I moisturize my healing tattoo?

Apply a very thin layer of the recommended aftercare ointment or unscented lotion two to three times a day. The goal is to keep the tattooed skin hydrated without suffocating it. Over-moisturizing can lead to clogged pores and disrupt the healing process, so always use the product sparingly and ensure it is fully absorbed.

What should I do during the first 24 hours?

Leave the initial bandage or protective film on for the exact amount of time recommended by your artist. Once it is time to remove it, wash the area gently using your hands, lukewarm water, and an unscented, antibacterial soap. Pat the area completely dry with a clean paper towel. Never rub it, and absolutely avoid using cloth towels which can harbor bacteria.

Tattoo & Piercing Aftercare Guide

You have endured the procedure; now comes the discipline. Healing is the most critical phase of your body modification journey. Whether it is ink settling permanently into the dermis or tissue forming safely around implant-grade titanium, proper aftercare is absolutely non-negotiable. Below, you will find our official guidelines for protecting your body art and ensuring it heals flawlessly.

Book a Check-Up Required Consent Form

*Mandatory prior to any procedure

unclechronis-body-surface piercings_19203.jpg

Tattoo Healing &
Maintenance

Tattoo Aftercare

Piercing Care &
Structural Stability

Piercing Aftercare

Dedicated Aftercare Appointments

Healing is an active process, and we are here to guide you through it. We offer three specific follow-up appointments dedicated entirely to the maintenance and structural integrity of your body art.

Piercing Jewelry Removal
15 min
Book Now
Change Piercing
15 min
Book Now
Check Up Visit
15 min
Book Now

Oh, what do we have here?
A brand new tattoo?

You know… the art of tattooing and blah blah blah for art to exist, knowledge must come first. If you want your tattoo to stay bright, clean, and beautiful like a spring morning, you’ve got to care for it properly. It might’ve hurt a bit, but that doesn’t mean you should hurt it back!

THE DO’s ✅

Find a Tattoo Artist, not a “tattoo guy.”

Look for an artist who knows their craft, follows strict hygiene standards, and lives for ink. This piece will live on your skin, it deserves the best

Learn to listen, not just to speak.

Once you find your tattoo artist, trust them. Their experience is full of tips, healing tricks, and wisdom earned through years of practice.

Five-star spa treatment.

Your new tattoo is pampered keep it that way! It’s going to stay with you forever, so make sure your relationship doesn’t… crack.

No shortcuts to cleanliness!

Keep it clean and soft. No harsh soaps, no toxic cleansers. Use a tattoo cleanser or mild soap only. Your tattoo deserves a luxury wash not a carwash 😎

Nothing but love!

Love always wins even in tattoo care. Follow your artist’s advice and apply your aftercare cream 3–5 times a day.

Give it space to breathe.

Like any serious relationship, it needs space and time. Don’t suffocate it with tight clothes. Remember that leather outfit you love? Not yet!

Ask questions. Always free!

Got doubts? Ask us! Whatever worries you, we’re here to help with care, honesty, and no judgment.

Come back for a check-up.

Two weeks after your tattoo session, drop by for a free follow-up check! We’ll see how your tattoo has healed, give you extra aftercare advice, and make sure everything’s perfect. Because aftercare doesn’t end with the cream it continues with care and trust.

THE DON’Ts 🚫

Tattoos don’t photosynthesize.

Treat it like an indoor plant no sun, no solarium. Craving sunlight? Be patient, its time will come

Gym? Not today

Give your body two days off. Your biceps and abs will survive, promise.

You’re the canvas, not the artist.

No scratching, no peeling, no touching. Let it heal naturally.

Unless your name is Jacques Cousteau…

Stay away from the sea and pools until it’s fully healed. We know that beach bar and its perfect club sandwich are calling your name but wait a little longer!

Tattoos and sushi need technique!

When cleaning, go gentle. Remember “Wax on, wax off” soft, smooth, and with love.

Final advice 🌙

Patience is a virtue. Treat your tattoo like a VIP guest and it’ll thank you with years of radiant beauty. Take care of it and it will take care of you. There you go, friends Uncle Chronis’ colorful guide to tattoo aftercare! Follow these tips and your ink will shine brighter than a shooting star on a moonlit night.

Tattoo & Piercing Aftercare Guide

Tattoo Healing & Maintenance

How do I take care of my new tattoo?

What should I do during the first 24 hours?

How often should I moisturize my healing tattoo?

Is it normal for my new tattoo to peel and itch?

When can I safely expose my tattoo to the sun or go swimming?

Can I go to the gym or work out after getting tattooed?

What should I do if my tattoo looks red or feels overly warm?

Piercing Care & Structural Stability

How should I clean my new piercing?

Should I twist or rotate the jewelry during healing?

What is the crusty buildup around my piercing, and should I remove it?

When do I need to downsize my piercing jewelry?

Can I go swimming with a fresh piercing?

How long does a piercing take to heal?

Dedicated Aftercare Appointments

Piercing Jewelry Removal

Change Piercing

Check Up Visit

Oh, what do we have here? A brand new tattoo?

THE DO’s ✅

Find a Tattoo Artist, not a “tattoo guy.”

Look for an artist who knows their craft, follows strict hygiene standards, and lives for ink. This piece will live on your skin, it deserves the best

Learn to listen, not just to speak.

Once you find your tattoo artist, trust them. Their experience is full of tips, healing tricks, and wisdom earned through years of practice.

Five-star spa treatment.

Your new tattoo is pampered keep it that way! It’s going to stay with you forever, so make sure your relationship doesn’t… crack.

No shortcuts to cleanliness!

Keep it clean and soft. No harsh soaps, no toxic cleansers. Use a tattoo cleanser or mild soap only. Your tattoo deserves a luxury wash not a carwash 😎

Nothing but love!

Love always wins even in tattoo care. Follow your artist’s advice and apply your aftercare cream 3–5 times a day.

Give it space to breathe.

Like any serious relationship, it needs space and time. Don’t suffocate it with tight clothes. Remember that leather outfit you love? Not yet!

Ask questions. Always free!

Got doubts? Ask us! Whatever worries you, we’re here to help with care, honesty, and no judgment.

Come back for a check-up.

Two weeks after your tattoo session, drop by for a free follow-up check! We’ll see how your tattoo has healed, give you extra aftercare advice, and make sure everything’s perfect. Because aftercare doesn’t end with the cream it continues with care and trust.

THE DON’Ts 🚫

Tattoos don’t photosynthesize.

Treat it like an indoor plant no sun, no solarium. Craving sunlight? Be patient, its time will come

Gym? Not today

Give your body two days off. Your biceps and abs will survive, promise.

You’re the canvas, not the artist.

No scratching, no peeling, no touching. Let it heal naturally.

Unless your name is Jacques Cousteau…

Stay away from the sea and pools until it’s fully healed. We know that beach bar and its perfect club sandwich are calling your name but wait a little longer!

Tattoos and sushi need technique!

When cleaning, go gentle. Remember “Wax on, wax off” soft, smooth, and with love.

Final advice 🌙

Please fill in your name and answer the question so we can provide you with help tailored to your needs in the future.

Tattoo Healing &
Maintenance

Piercing Care &
Structural Stability

Oh, what do we have here?
A brand new tattoo?