Getting a first tattoo is an exciting experience! However, you shouldn’t step into this new experience without any guidance.
Many people rush into this process without any research and then end up regretting their decision. There are a couple of things you should have in your mind before getting permanent ink on your skin.
I have prepared 12 tips that will ensure your tattoo experience goes smoothly and without any regrets! Continue reading so you can find out what you need to know before booking a tattoo appointment.
1. Research The Tattoo Artist And Studio
This is the step many people skip which is a huge mistake! It’s beyond important to choose a tattoo studio that is licensed, clean, and reputable. You don’t want someone tattooing you with dirty equipment that wasn’t sterilized. You also don’t want someone who sucks at their job.
2. Think About Design & Style
You should have a clear idea of what you want before an appointment. You can find the exact design you want your tattoo artist to recreate or maybe show them some references and let them do their magic.
Don’t forget to research different tattoo styles like linework, realism, dotwork, and others so you can find something that suits you.
3. Think About Placement & Size
As soon as you make an appointment, the first question any tattoo artist will ask is probably what size and placement you have in mind. This is a perfect time to think about the visibility of the tattoo, especially if you work in environments where tattoos might need to be covered.
4. Be Aware That Tattoos Hurt
Getting a tattoo isn’t for the weak! Tattoos on some body parts hurt much more so think about your pain tolerance before deciding where you want to get a tattoo.
The most painful spots to get a tattoo are the neck, ribs, spine, fingers, chest, and face. So if your pain tolerance is low, I would suggest you get a tattoo on some place with more muscle mass, like legs or arms.
5. Budget Accordingly
If you want your tattoo to be done professionally and to look good even after many years, this won’t be cheap. High-quality tattoos cost more but it’s totally worth it!
So don’t go to some tattoo studio just because their prices are low. It’s better to save money for some time than to rush into this process and then regret it later on.
6. Prepare Your Skin
If your skin is healthy and well taken care of, chances are much higher that the whole process will be easier and your tattoo will turn out well.
Try to avoid sunbathing before your appointment so you don’t get sunburns. Also, stay hydrated and make sure to moisturize your skin. Another good idea is to shave the spot you’re getting a tattoo on if you don’t want your tattoo artist to do it in the studio.
7. Avoid Alcohol And Blood Thinners
This is an advice many people don’t know about. You should be sober at least 24 hours before your appointment. This is because alcohol and medications with blood thinning properties can cause more bleeding during your session.
8. Stay In The Shade
Stay out of the sun for at least a week before getting a tattoo–it’s super important! Sunburned skin will hurt more and can mess with how the ink settles, and trust me, you don’t want that. So throw on some sunscreen, stick to the shade and keep your skin in top shape for the big day!
9. Get Enough Sleep
Make sure to get enough sleep the night before getting inked! Being well-rested will help you handle the pain better and will keep your energy up for the session. Plus, you’ll find it way easier to sit still and let your artist work their magic.
10. Be Ready For Aftercare
Getting a tattoo doesn’t finish with you going out of the tattoo studio. This is a process that lasts for 2 to 3 weeks depending on the tattoo you’ve got. It actually takes 6 months for the skin below a tattoo to truly heal. And trust me, you want your tattoo to heal well in order for it to look good.
This is why you should avoid sun exposure and swimming. Also, make sure to moisturize it well with products that contain something moisturizing like shea butter, vitamin E, or coconut oil.
11. Expect Multiple Sessions For Large & Complex Tattoos
If you want to get a large tattoo or complex design, prepare yourself to come to the studio multiple times and also sit there still for a long time. These kinds of tattoos require a lot of time to create so discuss this with your tattoo artist beforehand so you know what to expect.
12. Feel Free To Ask Questions
This is really important! Whatever questions or doubts you have, feel free to ask your tattoo artists to answer them.
They want to make sure your process goes as smoothly as possible so don’t be afraid to ask anything. You can ask them about the process, aftercare tips, and even opinion on the piece you’re getting.
If you’ve reached this point, congratulations! You’re now ready for your first tattoo!