What to Do Before Getting a Tattoo? 6 Basics
– Rest
Before your appointment, remember to show up well-rested. Depending on the size and intricacy of your tattoo, sessions can last for a few hours and will be tough on your body.
– Bring snacks
Be sure to show up to your appointment after having a good meal to stay energized.
Come to your session prepared with snacks and drinks so that your blood sugar does not go too low at any point. Eating also prevents dizziness that might arise out of nerves or hunger.
– Stay hydrated
Make sure you stay properly hydrated before and throughout your session with (mainly) water and/or sugary drinks.
By ensuring a proper hydration, we’ll also help the healing process.
– Bring entertainment
If you are anticipating a long tattooing session, come prepared with headphones or something you enjoy so that you can listen to music and/or watch a TV show or movie to pass the time.
– Caffeine
Like alcohol, caffeine also should be avoided before getting a tattoo. Caffeine can act as a blood thinner and can also cause you to be jittery. This can make it increasingly difficult for tattoo artists to work on you. Know your limits and be mindful of them as you prepare for your tattoo.
– Wear tight clothes
Wear clothing that is loose, comfortable, and easily accessible for you and your tattoo artist.
You want to be able to lie down for extended periods comfortably.
Bear in mind the placement of your tattoo and remember to dress accordingly. For example, if you are getting a piece on your thigh, wear loose shorts or a dress.
Can I Use Numbing Cream Before a Tattoo?
The biggest concern for many people is the pain that they will encounter as they get tattooed, which is how numbing creams have grown in popularity.
If you’re allowed to bring a friend, talk to them to distract yourself from the pain.
– Talk to your artist
Some tattoo artists work by getting in the zone, which means that they may not be so open to chatting. However, many artists love getting to know their clients, so don’t be shy to strike up a conversation with them.
Be perceptive to their cues to make sure that you are not interrupting their flow as you speak to them.
Some tattoo artists are open to their clients showing up with numbing cream, others are skeptics of its efficacy, and many are simply against the use of it.
Numbing creams are not always a fool-proof way to prevent the pain of a tattoo. If you are struggling to make it through a session and you are finding the pain impossible to tolerate, using a numbing cream may be an option for you to relieve the pain.
Be sure to discuss this with your tattoo artist before your session because for certain artists, showing up with the area already numbed might cost you your appointment.