What To Do Before Getting a Tattoo

Most people when getting a new tattoo, have a lot of questions about the experience. It is guaranteed that you will have a different experience at every tattoo shop however there are a few things that you can do to make the experience great for you!

Prepare For Your Tattoo By Avoiding Sunburns:

 Tanning while very popular among many people can actually hinder the healing process of a tattoo. While it is nearly impossible in the summer to avoid the sun, it is best to wear sunscreen when you are out and about a few days prior to your appointment. When trying to tattoo over sunburns it can become very painful and swollen often leading to complications that follow with healing. If you do happen to catch a few rays don’t panic, as long as the tan isn't swollen, red, or painful, your new tattoo should be fine. Overall the best thing you can do to avoid this is to just wear sunscreen.

Make Sure You Get Good Sleep the Night Before Your Tattoo Session:

 A full night of sleep has always been an underrated advantage for any activity. You can attribute many things to a full night of sleep including a better mood, a stronger immune system, and less stress. Being tired for your appointment can lead to fidgeting, anxiety, and overall discomfort. One of the best ways to feel as comfortable as possible before a tattoo is to get a full night of sleep the night before. If you do feel jitters the night before try to get in bed early so you do get enough sleep! 

Don’t Drink Alcohol Before Getting Your Tattoo:

Drinking while it can be quite fun, can be damaging when trying to get a new tattoo. While drinking many people become dehydrated often leading to their skin thinning out as well as their blood thinning. One of the worst things about drinking can be the morning after. Getting a tattoo can already be uncomfortable due to the painful nature of it and hangovers will only exacerbate the pain. Having a beer or two won't affect your experience but save the rager for after the tattoo is healed. 

Make Sure to Eat In Preparation: 

Many people are unaware how much of a difference that a full stomach can make on the anxiety that normally comes with getting a tattoo. You will want to be very hydrated before and during the tattoo, ink typically sits better in hydrated skin. Food, drinks, snacks, and hard candy are good ways to combat jitters and potentially distract yourself from pain. There are better foods to eat then others including protein because it helps your body heal and it will keep you full for longer. If you are getting a bigger tattoo or going to be there for over 4 or so hours it is important to bring lunch or plan out what you will do when you are hungry. Our shop typically orders lunch and anyone who wants food orders as well. Avoid drinking too much caffeine can cause unnecessary jitters and can also thin out your blood. A cup or two of coffee won’t send you overboard but avoid drinking more than one energy drink! 

Wear Comfortable Clothes That Fit Where You Want Your Tattoo:

Normally when you plan for a tattoo you have a specific place in mind for the piece. Whether that be your ribs, your forearm, or your lower back, it is important to dress accordingly. Making sure that you are comfortable is one of, if not the most important goal for your black and grey tattoo artist. Wearing clothes that stretch or layering is often a good way to stay comfortable and make the place of the tattoo accessible! Depending on the tattoo studio you may or may not be in your own room for the tattoo, just in case it is a more open floor plan like ours, it is important to have layers to cover potential body parts that you don’t want to expose. It is also common to get cold while you are getting tattooed especially if it is summer, the easiest way to plan is to bring some extra layers in the car just in case! 

By following these general guidelines, your tattoo experience should be a breeze! With these tips and pointers you will be able to get any tattoo like a pro!