Getting a tattoo is a life-changing experience. It’s a creative way to express your individuality and capture a piece of your story. However, incorrect and incomplete information can leave you with disappointing results and health complications. That’s why learning how to prepare for a tattoo is crucial for a smooth, safe, and satisfying process. In this article, we’ll teach you the do’s and don’ts of preparing for your tattoo session and debunk common myths for a seamless yet deeply meaningful experience. Don’t wait any longer and scroll down to learn more before you begin your ink adventure!
What to do before getting a tattoo
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Spend several weeks, if not months, brainstorming before finalizing your tattoo design. Consider the size and placement of the tattoo before booking an appointment. Make sure it fits your personality and is something you will cherish for the rest of your life.
Take the time to research and find a skilled tattoo artist whose style aligns with your vision. Check out their portfolio, read online reviews, and visit several tattoo parlors in person before choosing the right one. Be clear about your expectations, ask questions, and trust their expertise. A collaborative approach will create a more satisfying experience for both you and the artist.
Get a good night’s sleep before your tattoo session to prepare your body for the experience. A well-rested body is less sensitive to pain and is more likely to interpret the body’s responses correctly.
Nourish your body with a balanced meal before your appointment. It will help keep your blood sugar levels stable and give you the energy to get through the session comfortably.
Drink plenty of water before and during your tattoo session to keep your skin hydrated. This will help the tattoo ink penetrate better, make the session more comfortable, and speed up the healing process.
Quick tipYou can also opt for homemade fruit juices like lemonade or orange juice before your tattoo appointment. Their rich vitamin C content can help boost your immune system and promote wound healing after your session (1).
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Clean it with an antibacterial soap and lukewarm water and moisturize the area well before the session. This is essential to prevent dry and irritated skin and to reduce the chance of bruising and infection.
Although everyone’s pain threshold is different, you should keep your own pain threshold in mind and select the right area in the right way. Be mentally prepared for some discomfort. But remember that this pain is temporary and part of the tattooing process.
Choose loose, comfortable clothing and avoid clothing that restricts access to the tattooed area. Also, avoid sun exposure before your session, as tanned skin can distort the final color and result.
Ask a good friend to accompany you to your tattoo session. Choosing someone who understands you well will help you stay calm during the process.
Jasmine, a blogger, shared on her blog how she prepared for her tattoo session. She wrote, “I opted to watch a few YouTube videos. I went out for pancakes with my girlfriends, which I find to be a great fuel (i).”
As mentioned above, eating a healthy meal is crucial for a smooth and comfortable tattoo experience. Find out in the next section what foods you should eat before a tattoo session.
What to eat before a tattoo session
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Opt for a protein-rich snack instead of sugary snacks and processed foods for energy and stamina (2). A hearty meal will help keep you alert during the process. Low blood sugar can increase your physical response to the pain, making you more likely to feel faint. Therefore, eat protein-rich foods to prepare your body for tattooing.
Quick tipEat green leafy vegetables before your big day, as they are high in vitamin K. This vitamin can help reduce the risk of bleeding during the session (3).
Eating a healthy, balanced meal and staying hydrated is important for a smoother tattoo experience. However, there are a few things you should avoid drinking before your session. Read more in the next section.
Can you drink before getting a tattoo?
When it comes to getting a tattoo, what you drink is just as important as what you eat. Hydration plays a crucial role when tattooing your skin, as dehydration can increase your risk of cuts. It can also cause headaches and make you feel generally unwell.
Stop drinking alcohol 24 to 48 hours before your tattoo day. Alcohol can compromise your immune system and increase the risk of bleeding during the process (4).
Alcohol is one of the things you should avoid before a tattoo session. But that’s not all. Check out the next section for some other things you should avoid before getting a tattoo.
What Not to Do Before Getting a Tattoo
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These are the things you should not do before getting a tattoo:
Stop taking any blood thinning medications 24 hours before the big day, as this can increase the risk of bleeding. Avoid caffeine before the session, as this can make you feel anxious and restless during the process. Avoid shaving and exfoliating the tattooed area the day before the appointment, as it may not have healed yet. Skip your workout the day before the tattoo session, so that the body can fully rest and prepare.
Getting a tattoo requires careful consideration and preparation. From thoughtful design selection to staying hydrated and well-nourished, each step plays a crucial role in ensuring a positive and exciting experience. Remember, getting a tattoo is a partnership between you and your tattoo artist. Therefore, it is crucial to research your potential tattoo artist and studio to ensure a smooth, sanitary, and safe experience. Be sure to avoid caffeine and alcohol and get plenty of rest for a painless and memorable tattoo experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you take Advil before a tattoo?
No, avoid taking Advil before your session, as it can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding during the painful process (5). You can consult your tattoo artist or dermatologist and use a numbing cream to reduce the pain during the session.
Can you take Tylenol before a tattoo?
Yes, Tylenol is considered a safer option for pain relief before getting a tattoo compared to Ibuprofen. However, consult your tattoo artist or a health care professional before taking any medications to ensure they will not affect your tattoo or your health.
How big should a first tattoo be?
This is a matter of personal preference. If this is your first time, opt for a smaller size or a smaller piece of a larger design. This will give you an idea of the tattooing process and help you better understand your pain level.
Key Points
Eat a meal high in protein and vegetables before your tattoo to get through the session. Spend plenty of time finalizing your tattoo design and research a skilled and experienced tattoo artist to ensure your vision aligns with their expertise. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and blood thinning medications, and get a good night’s sleep for a smoother experience.
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Proper preparation for your tattoo session will ensure a smooth experience for both you and your tattoo artist. Watch this video for smart tips and interesting information to prepare yourself properly before getting tattooed.
Personal experience: Source
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Anastasiia Gatsko is a professional tattoo artist and piercer with over five years of hands-on experience. She began her journey in tattooing with permanent makeup, which shaped her skills and perspective. Combining her passion for art with formal business education, Anastasiia started G Tattoo & Piercing in Toronto, Ontario.
Read the full biography of Anastasiia Gatsko
Manjari is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over three years of experience writing across various niches including beauty, health, wellness, and technology. She first discovered her passion for writing in school and has been honing her craft ever since.
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Eshna is an associate editor and certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple major bachelor’s degree in psychology, English and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.
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Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience in creating short-form content for the beauty, fashion and lifestyle niches. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science and Geography from IIS University and a Master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.
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