FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Budder Buddy?
Budder Buddy is a tattoo healing tracker app. It helps you monitor your tattoo's recovery day by day — with ghost-camera check-ins, UV alerts, smart reminders, an AI healing guide, and a timelapse of your entire healing journey stored in your Ink Vault.
Is Budder Buddy free?
Yes — Budder Buddy is free for early adopters. We plan to introduce optional premium features in the future, but the core healing tracker will always have a free tier.
What devices does Budder Buddy support?
Budder Buddy is available on iOS (iPhone). Android support is planned for a future release. Check the App Store for the latest supported iOS versions.
Do I need an account to use the app?
You can use basic features without an account. Creating a free account unlocks cloud backup for your check-ins and Ink Vault photos, so your data isn't lost if you switch devices.
How does the ghost camera work?
When you do a check-in, the ghost camera overlays a transparent reference image of your previous check-in photo onto your live camera view. This helps you line up the shot from the same angle every time, giving you a consistent healing comparison and a clean timelapse at the end.
Why is the app asking for camera permission?
Camera access is needed for ghost-camera check-ins and adding photos to your Ink Vault. We only access your camera when you actively take a check-in photo — we never record or monitor your camera in the background.
You can grant or revoke camera permission at any time in your device Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera.
How often should I do a check-in?
We recommend once daily, ideally at the same time each day, for the first 2–4 weeks. The app will remind you based on the schedule you set. After the initial healing phase, you can switch to weekly check-ins to track long-term settling of colors and lines.
Always follow your tattoo artist's specific aftercare instructions — they know your tattoo best.
Can I delete a check-in?
Yes. Swipe left on any check-in entry in your timeline to delete it. Note: deleted check-ins cannot be recovered.
How do UV alerts work?
The app uses your approximate location (city/region level) to fetch the local UV index. When the UV index is elevated, you'll receive an alert reminding you to keep your healing tattoo covered or protected from sun exposure. UV exposure is one of the leading causes of color fading and complications during healing.
You can use a manual zip code instead of location access if you prefer — set this in app Settings → UV Alerts.
How do I change my reminder schedule?
Go to app Settings → Reminders to customize the time, frequency, and type of notifications. You can also disable reminders entirely without affecting other app features.
I'm not receiving notifications — what do I do?
- Check that notifications are enabled in Settings → Privacy & Security → Notifications → Budder Buddy.
- Make sure Do Not Disturb is not active.
- In the app, go to Settings → Reminders and confirm they are turned on.
- Try toggling notifications off and back on.
If the issue persists, contact us at support@budderbuddy.org.
What is the Ink Vault?
The Ink Vault is your personal archive of all your tattoos. For each piece, you can store photos, artist info, studio, ink date, style, and your complete healing history. It's a permanent record of your tattoo collection over time.
How do I generate my healing timelapse?
Once you've completed enough check-ins, a "Generate Timelapse" option will appear on your tattoo's detail page. The timelapse compiles your check-in photos in order to show the full healing progression. You can download it to your camera roll and share it.
Are my photos backed up?
Photos are stored on your device by default. If you have an account with cloud sync enabled, your photos are also backed up to secure cloud storage. We recommend keeping your own backup via iCloud or your device backup as well.
Is the AI healing advice medically accurate?
The AI Healing Guide provides general aftercare suggestions based on your check-in data. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow the aftercare instructions given by your licensed tattoo artist.
If you see signs of infection — excessive redness, swelling, discharge, fever, or prolonged pain — consult a licensed healthcare provider immediately.
What data does the AI use?
The AI uses the text and metadata from your check-ins — healing stage, observations, days since your tattoo date, and general tattoo info. Your photos are not sent to AI services. See our Privacy Policy for full details.
How do I delete my account and data?
You can delete your account directly from the app: go to Settings → Account → Delete Account. All your personal data will be permanently deleted within 30 days.
You can also request deletion by emailing privacy@budderbuddy.org with the subject "Account Deletion Request."
How do I request a copy of my data?
Email privacy@budderbuddy.org with the subject "Data Export Request." We'll get back to you within 30 days with an export of your data.
I forgot my password — how do I reset it?
On the login screen, tap "Forgot Password" and enter your email address. You'll receive a reset link within a few minutes. Check your spam folder if you don't see it.
Still stuck? Email support@budderbuddy.org and we'll help manually.
I found a bug — how do I report it?
We appreciate bug reports! Email support@budderbuddy.org with:
- A description of what happened
- Steps to reproduce the issue
- Your device model and iOS version
- App version (Settings → About)
- A screenshot if possible
Still Need Help?
Send us a message and we'll get back to you within 1–2 business days.