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How to Prepare for your Tattoo Appointment: 5 Essential Tips for a Great Experience

Updated: Dec 19, 2022



In this article, we did thorough research to present the most important things to remember before getting a tattoo. Keep reading below for helpful suggestions on preparing your skin for a tattoo.


Tip #1 - Eat and Bring Snacks


Making sure you eat before getting tattooed is essential preparation you can do. Eating helps you keep your body relaxed and get comfortable with the tattoo. If you sit for a longer appointment, you should bring a small snack. Eating also helps to keep your blood sugar regular. Low blood pressure can contribute to a risk of passing out, so eat up! Don’t drink up. You may think that getting drunk will give you “liquid courage” to get tattooed, but we cannot legally tattoo you if you are under the influence. Tattoo choices are better when sober.



Tip #2 - Get Some Rest


The last thing you want is to come in and be utterly exhausted from your tattoo session. Otherwise, your artist won't know how you genuinely feel, and you may be more irritable or find it harder to sit still. It will make your appointment feel a lot longer and your body more sensitive to pain. Being well-rested will also help keep you comfortable. If you show up tired, It is best to let your artist know that you didn't get the best night's sleep. As you are getting tattooed, you want to be able to read the signals your body is sending you and react appropriately. Being well-rested to be alert and in tune with your body is essential. Take the extra time and plan so you are rested (and on time) for your appointment. You will thank yourself for it during your session.


NOTE: Tattoo shops are not good places to bring children. There will most likely be some adult-themed conversations or music that most parents would not want their children to hear. We cannot allow children under 18 into the back of the shop, so you better not bring your kids with you.


Tip #3 - Sit Still and Wear comfortable clothes.


If this is your first tattoo, wearing comfortable clothes is indispensable. It will help the artist quickly access the area you intend to have tattooed. In addition, it also makes you more comfortable during the entire session. When choosing clothes to wear, go for something that isn't tight and constricting, but bringing socks or a jacket is okay to help keep you warm. Be honest, and let your artist know if you need a break. You must also sit still, speaking with your mouth and not your entire body. Just relax and let the tattoo happen. If you fight what is happening or hold your breath, you will only make the pain worse. Relax and breathe; you will help your tattoo be the best it can be!


Tip #4 - Stay Hydrated


Before you get in the chair, you want to ensure your body is hydrated. It is the most important thing before getting a tattoo. A good goal is to drink eight 8-oz glasses of water to ensure your body is in the best shape possible. Not only is it good for your health, but it makes the tattoo process feel like the most fantastic thing ever. Hydrated skin takes pigment a lot better than dehydrated skin, making the entire process much smoother for your artist.


Tip #5 - Avoid Using Drugs


Please avoid taking drugs during your tattoo session. You should AVOID taking CANNABIS, you think it calms you, but it has the opposite effect. You should limit your alcohol, coffee, and aspirin before being tattooed. They have blood-thinning properties, which can result in excessive bleeding. Lastly, don't forget to mention any prescription medications or medical conditions you may face for your tattoo artist.


Conclusion


You will have a piece of body art that will stay with you forever, and you will spend a fair amount of money on it. Thus, it is equally important to prepare your skin before the procedure so that you’ll get the tattoo you want instead of a nasty surprise!


If you're interested starting a consultation with one of our tattoo artists please feel free to contact us.


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