How TO Prepare for a Tattoo
So, you've booked in for your tattoo? Chosen the perfect design, deposit paid & appointment secured... Congratulations!
​
We've compiled a list of tips on how best to prepare for your tattoo, in order to make it as comfortable as possible for everyone.
Leading up to your Appointment:
​
-
Stay Hydrated. Staying well hydrated makes your skin more resilient, which will allow it to endure longer tattoo sessions, and help you heal faster.
-
Moisturize: You may also keep your skin hydrated by moisturizing once or twice a day for a week leading up to your appointment. However, do not moisturize immediately before your session as this could affect the tattoo machines function.
-
Shave: You may wish to shave the area where you will be tattooed, before your appointment. Take care not to break the skin while shaving. If you choose to wax instead, make sure you do it well in advance, as your skin will require time to heal before getting tattooed.
-
Rest: Make sure you get a good night's sleep before your appointment. Head to bed early and avoid any drugs or alcohol.
-
Eat: Make sure to eat a meal before your appointment. This will help to avoid fainting and feeling unwell. When you are hungry, pain management becomes more difficult, making the tattoo process more unpleasant.
-
Tattoos won't heal well on damaged skin, so avoid anything that can cause damage including; tanning, sun beds, fake tan, sun burn, chemical peel or any cuts or scapes.
-
Avoid strenuous exercise before your tattoo as putting strain on your muscles can cause swelling or soreness which could exacerbate the sensation of the tattoo and impact healing time.
On the Day:
​
-
Eat a healthy, balanced meal before your appointment.
-
You may bring snacks and a drink with you. If you're booked in for a day sitting, we will usually have a short break for lunch so you may choose to bring a packed lunch with you.
-
Please shower before your appointment and avoid wearing perfume/cologne. Deodorant is acceptable, provided that tattoo is not taking place in that area.
-
Dress comfortably and appropriately. We recommend wearing something that will give the artist easy access to the area and that you don't mind potentially getting ink on. Avoid tight or restrictive clothing.
-
Be sober. We cannot tattoo you if you have been drinking or otherwise under the influence.
-
You may choose to bring a friend or significent other. As our treatment room is quite cosy, there generally isn't room for more than one companion. Children are not permitted in the studio.
-
Avoid touching the tattoo while the artist is working, as this could lead to contamination. Similarly, do not touch the tattoo equipment.
-
Avoid moving around as much as possible. The stiller you are, the quicker the artist will be able to complete the tattoo.
-
We only take cash, so make sure you bring the correct amount as we don't always have change.
-
If you need to make any changes to the design, please give at least 72 hours notice, as trying to do this at the start of your appointment will lead to delays.
-
Listen to the Aftercare advice given by your artist.
​
Remember - A tattoo is never permenant until it's healed!
​
​