Knowing what to do before your tattoo appointment can help the procedure go by a lot smoother.
We have compiled a list of important things to do and keep in mind before your tattoo appointment.
1. GET A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP, AND COME WELL RESTED
You want to come well rested so that you’re alert and in tune with your body. You do not want to fall asleep during your session. You are also not able to react appropriately to your bodies signals. You may also experience more pain than usual.
2. STAY HYDRATED. SERIOUSLY BRING WATER!
24 hours before your appointment you should be drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. Doing so hydrates your skin so that it is better prepped for the tattoo. Hydrated skin takes ink a lot better than when it’s dehydrated. We also recommend drinking water during the appointment.
3. IF YOU CAN, SHAVE AND EXFOLIATE
By shaving you provide a clean area for your artist to work with. We also provide disposable razors for us to shave the area being tattooed beforehand. Exfoliating the area within 48 hours of your tattoo also helps remove extra dead skin cells so that the skin better takes the tattoo ink.
4. SHOWER
Please shower before your tattoo (and hopefully everyday) to make sure the area is as clean as possible and prevent the spread of infections.
5. MOISTURIZE THAT SKIN
Moisturize your skin weeks and even days before the appointment (Do not apply moisturizer within 2-3 hours of your tattoo appointment). Hydrated skin takes tattoo ink better, and helps the needles glide smoother.
6. EAT AND BRING SNACKS
Eating helps you stay in a better mood, and prevents you getting lightheaded and passing out during the appointment. Bringing snacks to the appointment is very helpful for those who have lower blood pressure.
7. DRESS APPROPRIATELY FOR YOUR SESSION
Appropriate clothing will allow your artist easy access to the area. Comfortable and loose clothing is also highly recommended.
8. DO NOT SHOW UP INTOXICATED
Showing up intoxicated can cause complications with your tattoo. For example alcohol consumption before a tattoo can cause excessive bleeding, irregular blood pressure, etc. Also avoid aspirin or any medication that thins your blood.
9. DO NOT SHOW UP WITH DAMAGED SKIN
If you have any cuts, bruises, or lesions in the area of the tattoo, the appointment will have to be postponed.
10. INTENSIVE EXERCISE
Any excessive straining of the muscles (working out before your appointment) will cause more pain for your tattoo.
13. BRING ENTERTAINMENT AND/OR A FRIEND
Sometimes tattoos can take long and get boring so we recommend bringing headphones or a game to entertain you. Bringing a friend also helps for support during these times. We do not allow more than 2 people with you to avoid crowding while tattooing.