Hey there my fellow travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will discuss the ins and outs of getting a tattoo in Bali. From what used to be a “do at your own peril” type of thing, getting a tattoo in Bali has become a popular trend among tourists with top class parlors a common sight on the island these days.
In fact, on the last retreat that my wife ran for our Pilates studio, a tattoo artist came to the villa and inked a lot of her participants in the comfort of their own villa.
However, before getting a tattoo in Bali, there are a few things that one should know such as ensuring that you choose a reputable and licensed tattoo studio and that effective safety measures are followed. And whilst prices may be cheaper compared to other countries, it is important to keep in mind that quality and safety should not be compromised for the sake of affordability.
So if getting inked in Bali is something you have considered, let’s have a look at it all below.
Why Choose Bali for Tattooing
Bali is a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique cultural experience and an opportunity to express themselves through body art. Here are a few reasons why Bali is a great place to get a tattoo:
- Tattoo styles: Bali is home to a diverse range of tattoo styles, from traditional Balinese designs to modern and trendy styles. Bali tattoo shop artists are skilled in a variety of tattooing techniques, including hand-poking, machine tattooing and bamboo tattooing. Some tattoo studios even specialize in specific styles, such as Japanese or tribal tattoos.
- Affordability: Compared to many other popular tattoo destinations, such as New York or Los Angeles, Bali offers many affordable options. Bali tattoo prices vary depending on the size and complexity of the design, but they are generally lower than prices in Western countries.
- Culture and spirituality: Bali is known for its rich culture and spirituality, which is reflected in many of the island’s tattoo designs. Balinese tattoos often incorporate symbols and images from Hindu mythology as well as traditional Balinese art and culture. For travelers seeking a meaningful and culturally significant tattoo, Bali is an excellent choice.
- Experienced artists: Bali is home to many talented and experienced tattoo artists who have honed their craft over many years. Many tattoo studios in Bali employ artists who have trained in other countries, such as Australia, Japan or the United States and bring a unique perspective to their work. Additionally, many tattoo artists in Bali take great care to ensure that their equipment is sterile and that they follow proper hygiene practices.
Overall, Bali is a great destination for travelers who want to get a tattoo that is both beautiful and meaningful. With a wide range of tattoo styles, affordable prices, and experienced artists, Bali is a top choice for anyone looking to get inked.
Check out my: Top 10 Beach Clubs in Bali
Regulations For Tattoo Parlors in Bali
At time of writing, tattoo studios in Bali are required to adhere to the following regulations:
- Licensing: Tattoo parlors in Bali are typically required to obtain the necessary business licenses and permits to operate legally. These licenses may vary depending on the specific location within Bali.
- Health and Safety Standards: Tattoo parlors are usually required to adhere to strict health and safety standards to protect both their clients and staff. This includes maintaining clean and hygienic premises, using sterile equipment and proper disposal of used needles and other materials.
- Training and Certification: Tattoo artists may be required to undergo training and obtain certification to ensure they are proficient in safe tattooing practices.
- Age Restrictions: One of the main questions often asked here is “what age can you get a tattoo in Bali?”. At time of writing, Tattoo parlors in Bali are prohibited from tattooing minors or individuals below the age of 15.
- Ink and Product Safety: Some regulations may govern the use of tattoo ink and other products to ensure they are safe for use on clients.
- Waste Management: Proper disposal of waste generated during the tattooing process is usually required to prevent environmental and health hazards.
- Zoning Regulations: Tattoo parlors may be subject to specific zoning regulations in certain areas, dictating where they can be located.
- Compliance with Local Laws: Apart from general regulations, tattoo parlors must comply with any additional local laws or guidelines that apply to their specific area within Bali.
It’s important to note that regulations can change over time, so if this is something you want to look into before visiting a studio, it’s recommended to reach out to the local government authorities or official sources in Bali to obtain the most current and accurate information regarding the specific regulations that tattoo parlors need to follow.
Finding a Reputable Tattoo Studio in Bali
To be honest, as a frequent traveler to Bali, I cannot highlight enough the importance of this next step. There are many great tattoo studios in Bali – in fact these days there are four on every street – but there are also many that you really should look to avoid. Hence, when it comes to getting a tattoo in Bali, finding a reputable studio is crucial to ensure a safe and satisfactory experience.
Here are three ways to find a reputable tattoo studio in Bali:
Online Reviews
One way to find a reputable tattoo studio in Bali is to check online reviews. Websites such as TripAdvisor, Yelp and Google Maps offer reviews and ratings from previous customers. Reading reviews can help you get an idea of the studio’s cleanliness, professionalism and overall quality of work.
However, it’s important to read a variety of reviews and not rely solely on the overall rating. Instagram is also very effective here as you can not only see reviews, but examples of work as well.
Personal Recommendations
Another way to find a reputable tattoo studio in Bali is to ask for personal recommendations from friends, family or acquaintances who have gotten tattoos in Bali. They can provide valuable insights into their experience and recommend a trustworthy studio.
Although, with all due respect to your friends, keep in mind that everyone’s experience is subjective and what works for one person may not work for another.
Studio Visits
The most effective way to find a reputable tattoo studio in Bali is to visit the studios in person. This allows you to see the studio’s cleanliness, meet the artists and check their portfolios. A reputable studio will have a sterile and clean environment and the artists will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
When visiting a studio, it’s important to keep the following in mind:
- Check if the studio has a license and follows health and safety regulations.
- Look at the artists’ portfolios to ensure they have experience with the style of tattoo you want.
- Ask about the aftercare instructions and ensure they provide clear and detailed instructions.
By using a combination of these methods, you can find a reputable tattoo studio in Bali and ensure a safe and satisfactory experience.
Health and Safety Considerations
As you look into the studio that you think is right for you, it is also important to consider health and safety factors to ensure a safe and successful experience. This section covers three key aspects to consider: sterilization procedures, artist’s credentials, and aftercare.
Sterilization Procedures
Before getting a tattoo, it is important to ensure that the tattoo studio follows proper sterilization procedures to prevent infections and diseases. Look for a studio that uses disposable needles and tubes and sterilizes all equipment using an autoclave.
Ask the artist about their sterilization procedures and ensure that they use fresh ink for each client.
Artist’s Credentials
It is essential to choose a reputable and experienced artist to ensure a safe and high-quality tattoo. Look for an artist who has a portfolio of their work, positive reviews and is licensed by the local health department.
Make sure the artist is knowledgeable about the risks and complications of getting a tattoo and can provide guidance on aftercare.
Aftercare
Proper aftercare is crucial to prevent infections and ensure the longevity of the tattoo. The artist should provide clear instructions on how to care for the tattoo, including washing and moisturizing the area, avoiding sun exposure and not picking at scabs.
It is also important to avoid swimming or soaking in water for at least two weeks after getting a tattoo – so it is definitely worth making sure you get tattooed at the end of your trip if possible.
Getting a Tattoo in Bali
Once you have done all of the above and you are ready to go, designing the tattoo is the next part of the process. Here are some things to consider when designing your tattoo.
Choosing a Design
When choosing a tattoo design, it’s important to choose something that is meaningful to you. This could be a symbol, an image or a phrase that represents something important in your life. It’s also important to consider the placement of the tattoo, as this will affect the size and style of the design.
Oh, and if you are getting wording or symbols from a foreign language, please make sure you check all of the translations first so that you don’t end up with the symbol for ‘ice cream’ on your arm when you thought you were getting one that means ‘peace’.
Consultation with Artist
Once you have a general idea of the design you want, it’s time to consult with the tattoo artist. The artist will work with you to create a custom design that fits your vision and takes into account the placement of the tattoo.
During the consultation, be sure to communicate your ideas clearly and listen to the artist’s suggestions. The artist may make suggestions for changes to the design based on their experience and expertise. It’s important to be open to these suggestions and work collaboratively with the artist to create a design that you will be happy with for years to come.
Overall, designing your tattoo is an important part of the process and it’s important to take the time to choose a design that is meaningful to you and work collaboratively with the artist to create a custom design that you will be proud to wear.
Legal and Cultural Considerations
We touched on this above but when getting a tattoo in Bali, it is important to consider both the legal and cultural aspects of the tattooing process. This can include:
Age Restrictions
The legal age to get a tattoo in Bali is 18 years old. Tattoo shops are required to ask for identification to verify the age of the customer before proceeding with the tattooing process. It is important to note that some tattoo shops may not follow this regulation so it is advisable to choose a reputable tattoo shop that follows the legal age requirement.
If they will tattoo underage clients, then you should take this as a sign that many other regulations are not followed either.
Respecting Local Culture
Bali is a predominantly Hindu culture and tattoos on locals are often associated with religious and spiritual significance so it is important to be respectful of the local culture when getting a tattoo in Bali. Avoid getting tattoos that are considered offensive, such as those that depict religious or cultural symbols in a disrespectful manner. Additionally, it is important to cover up tattoos when visiting temples or other religious sites.
It is also important to consider the environmental impact of getting a tattoo in Bali. Some tattoo inks may contain harmful chemicals that can pollute the environment. It is advisable to choose a tattoo shop that uses eco-friendly and biodegradable inks.
How Much Do Tattoos In Bali Cost?
When it comes to getting a tattoo in Bali, costs are generally cheaper than most western countries however these prices can vary depending on several factors. This can include:
Tattoo Size and Complexity
The size and complexity of a tattoo design can greatly affect the cost of the tattoo. As a general rule, the larger and more intricate the design, the more expensive the tattoo will be. Some tattoo studios in Bali charge by the hour, while others charge per piece.
For small to medium-sized tattoos, the minimum charge can be around 1,500,000 IDR (approximately $100 USD). Before starting the design, most studios require a deposit of around 500,000 IDR (approximately $35 USD). Prices can vary depending on the style and placement of the tattoo.
Artist’s Experience
Another factor that can affect the cost of a tattoo in Bali is the artist’s experience. More experienced and well-known artists tend to charge higher prices for their work. However, it is important to note that just because an artist charges more does not necessarily mean they are better than a less expensive artist.
It is recommended to do research and read reviews of different tattoo studios and artists in Bali before making a decision. This can help ensure that you are getting a quality tattoo at a fair price.
Overall, the cost of a tattoo in Bali can vary depending on several factors. It is important to consider the size and complexity of the design, as well as the artist’s experience, when determining the cost of a tattoo.
Location
In general, the busier the tattoo parlor is, the higher the costs will be. This is simple supply and demand so if you are looking for a good price, then maybe do some research into quieter areas away from the tourist hubs of Kuta or Seminyak.
Although keep in mind that you don’t want to spend all the money you would save on a car to get there.. haha. And if that doesn’t suit, some tattoo artists will come directly to your villa as well.
FAQs
What is the typical price range for a tattoo in Bali?
The tattoo cost in Bali can vary depending on the size, design, and complexity of the tattoo. On average, a small tattoo can cost around IDR 500,000 to IDR 1,000,000 (approximately USD 35 to USD 70), while a larger tattoo can cost upwards of IDR 10,000,000 (approximately USD 700).
Is it safe to get a tattoo in Bali?
While getting a tattoo in Bali can be a unique and memorable experience, it is important to take precautions to ensure that the tattoo is done safely and hygienically. Look for a reputable tattoo shop that follows proper sterilization procedures and uses clean, disposable equipment.
Are tattoos generally cheaper in Bali compared to other locations?
Tattoo prices in Bali can be more affordable compared to other locations, but it ultimately depends on the size and complexity of the tattoo. It is important to do your research and compare prices at different tattoo shops before making a decision.
Conclusion
There you have it, my take on getting a tattoo in Bali. I hope it has been helpful and as usual, please let me know of your experiences here.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
