Thinking about getting a tattoo? Getting inked might seem like a scary process, but with the right preparation, it can be a very painless experience. A good tattoo experience starts with planning. If you want to get the most out of your time in the tattoo parlor and leave feeling great, you need to prep before you go in. Here are some things to keep in mind when getting ready for your next tattoo experience. A good tattoo experience begins with research and planning ahead. You’ll have an easier time if you have an idea of what style of tattoo you want and what you’d like it to say. It’s also helpful to know exactly where on your body you want it placed so that you can tell your artist whether sleeves or pants will cover up any potential revealers later on.
How To Make A Tattoo Hurt Less
1. Know Exactly What You Want
Before you even call for an appointment, know exactly what you want and what you want it to say. You want to make sure that the tattoo is something that you will love for the rest of your life, so make sure that you get as much time to decide as you need. Don’t feel pressured into getting a tattoo that you’re not excited about. Tattoos are meant to be permanent, and being excited about your tattoo will make it easier to stick with it through the healing process. Some people think they can go in and talk to the artist about what they want and come out with a great tattoo. While this can happen, it’s probably not what you want. Going in with exactly what you want will make the process a lot less stressful for you and your artist.
2. Book a Consultation
When booking your consultation, make sure to book an appointment with the artist you want to work on your tattoo. Don’t be afraid to ask which artist will be working on you. If you’re nervous about the process and would like a friend to come with you for support or someone to go over the designs with you beforehand, then bring them along. You’ll want to bring any ideas you have for the tattoo and any aftercare instructions or information you were given. The consultation is a chance for your artist to get a feel for what you want and to make sure that you’ve gotten any misinformation out of your system.
3. Stick to Tattoo Aftercare Advice
If you’ve had your tattoo for years and it’s looking a little faded, now might be a good time to look into revitalizing the ink with a follow-up session. While you’re at it, make sure you’re following post-tattoo care instructions to the letter. If you’ve had a tattoo in the past and think you may have disregarded your artist’s advice, go back and make sure you’re following the aftercare directions properly. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially if your tattoo is fading. It’s also a good idea to visit a dermatologist for advice on retattooing your old ink.
4. Don’t Be Afraid of the Needle
Getting a tattoo is really all about the wait. It’s the mental aspect of the experience that gets people the most. Once you’re in the chair, it’s just a matter of staying calm and letting your artist do his or her job. Don’t try to rush the process or react to every sound. If you get your tattoo on an impulse and don’t know what you’re getting into, don’t be afraid to ask the artist to go a little bit slower. Don’t be rude or demanding, but if you’re getting overwhelmed, let your artist know.
5. Check Your Tattoo Expectations
Before you get your tattoo, take a moment to check your expectations. What is your artist’s experience level? What kind of design do they specialize in? How many hours will it take? How much does it cost? What kind of aftercare instructions will you receive? These are all things that you want to know before you get your ink. If you know what to expect and how much things are going to cost, you won’t be caught off-guard when the artist finishes up. If you’re not sure about the design you’re getting, take some time to look through tattoo portfolios online or ask your artist for references. You don’t want to be disappointed when it’s all done.
6. Bring Comfortable Clothing
It can be tempting to wear your fanciest outfit to the tattoo parlor, but you’re going to be more comfortable in something more casual. The last thing you want is to be worrying about ripping your shirt on the way out of the chair. Avoid wearing: – Tight-fitting clothing – Loose clothing will be more comfortable when you’re sitting with your arms raised. – Heavy jewelry – A light, loose-fitting shirt – Loose pants – Comfortable shoes – Hair ties
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Take a Break
Getting a tattoo can be a physical and emotional experience. If you need a break, let your artist know. If you are feeling too overwhelmed, your artist will understand. They want you to enjoy your experience, so don’t feel like you need to get the whole thing done in one sitting. If you’re unsure about getting a tattoo, consider a guided excursion with a professional artist. You can book a tattoo experience in your city or travel to other cities like Las Vegas, New York, or Los Angeles to get inked by top artists.
How To Take Care Of Your New Tattoo
- Wash your tattoo gently with lukewarm water and mild soap. Don’t scrub too hard, as this can cause irritation and damage the scabs that will form.
- Pat dry with a clean towel, then apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to keep it moisturized. Avoid using lotions or ointments, as these can break open the scabs and increase your chances of infection.
- Leave the bandage on for at least 6 hours after you get home from the tattoo parlor.
- Change the bandage once or twice a day (more often if you are sweating) to keep it clean and moistened with ointment or petroleum jelly.
- After about five days, remove all ointment/petroleum jelly and gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm water until all traces of ointment/petroleum jelly are gone, then pat dry gently with a clean towel and apply an unscented lotion to keep it moisturized until your tattoo is fully healed (about two weeks).
Tips For Reducing The Pain Of Getting A Tattoo
- Drink plenty of water before and after your appointment to stay hydrated.
- Eat a light meal, preferably several hours before your appointment.
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol for several hours before your appointment. These increase blood flow, which makes the tattooing process more painful.
- Take pain killers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen (Tylenol) one hour before your appointment to numb the pain and reduce swelling and irritation after you get home from the parlor.
- Tattoos are very addictive!
Conclusion
Getting a tattoo is a big decision and should be treated as such. It’s important to do your research and decide on a design that is meaningful to you. Make sure to book a consultation with your artist beforehand to go over design ideas, costs, and aftercare instructions. Stay hydrated and take breaks if you need them. Getting a tattoo is a fun experience, so get excited!
