Whether it’s your first tattoo or an addition to your collection, getting a tattoo can be both exciting and intimidating. Here are a few tips I like to share with my clients to physically and mentally prepare for their tattoo appointment so they have the most comfortable experience possible.
Physical Preparation Tips for Your Tattoo Appointment
1. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
A well-rested body handles stress and pain better. Arriving well-rested means your body will be able to optimally handle getting tattooed, making it a more comfortable experience overall.
2. Shower and Shave Beforehand
Shower before your appointment to remove oils, sweat and prevent potential infections. Use a fresh razor to carefully shave the night before or the morning of your appointment. If you’re uncomfortable shaving yourself, your artist can do it for you.
Pro Tip: Gently exfoliate and moisturize a few times a week leading up to your appointment. Personally, my favorite exfoliant is Nopalera’s cactus flower body scrub. Moisturizering makes the skin smoother and more supple for your artist to work on.
3. Eat a Meal and Hydrate Before Arriving
Tattoos are physically demanding, especially sessions lasting longer than 2+ hours. Having a healthy meal before your appointment will maintain your blood sugar levels and keep your energy up. Hydration is important both on the day of your appointment and in the week leading up to it. Well-hydrated skin will absorb ink more efficiently and promote a faster heal.
Pro Tip: For longer sessions, bring snacks and water to keep you comfortable.
4. Dress Comfortably for Your Session
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that provides easy access to the desired location. Consider layering for temperature changes and dark colors in case of ink splatter or spills.
5. Avoid Alcohol and NSAIDS 24 Hours Prior
NSAIDS (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, etc.) and alcohol thin your blood increasing the risk of bleeding and can dilute the ink. Alcohol also dehydrates your body, making you more sensitive to pain. Please refrain from consuming alcohol and NSAIDS 24 hours before your appointment to ensure the best conditions for both you and your artist.
Mental Preparation Tips for Your Tattoo Appointment
1. Understand the Permanency
Tattoos are a permanent form of body art. It’s crucial to be fully committed to the design and location of your tattoo. Whether it’s a form of self-expression, a tribute to a loved one, or for aesthetic purposes, spend time reflecting on how your tattoo will align with your personal and professional life.
2. Prepare for the Pain
Tattooing involves needles penetrating the skin, which can be painful. The level of discomfort varies depending on the location, size, and complexity of the piece. It’s important to prepare yourself for this sensation so you can manage the pain better.
Expect and accept the pain: Recognize that some pain is part of the process and will only last a short time.
Breathing techniques: Practice deep and steady breathing, the 4-7-8 method or alternate nostril breathing.
Distraction strategies: Consider bringing something to distract you, like music or a podcast. Chatting and focusing on something other than the pain can help you cope with the discomfort.
3. Discuss Any Concerns with Your Artist
If you have any anxieties or questions about the process, talk to your tattoo artist. I encourage my clients to bring up any concerns and vocalize what they’re thinking throughout the process. As body modification professionals, tattooers can provide reassurance, adjust their techniques to help manage pain, and give you insights into what to expect. Open communication can significantly reduce stress and enhance your overall experience.
4. Reflect on Your Motivations
Understanding your reasons for getting a tattoo can provide clarity and strengthen your commitment to the design. Whether it’s a form of self-expression, a tribute to a loved one, or for aesthetic purposes, having a clear motivation can help you mentally prepare for both the pain and the permanence of your new tattoo.
Follow these tips to get your body and mind in the best condition possible for a comfortable tattoo session. Share this guide with friends or anyone else who might benefit from this information. If you are interested in working with me and have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m happy to help you every step of the way on your tattoo journey!
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