Hey guys! After a request, I’m doing this post to clear some of your doubts and help the ones who never got a tattoo before. If you have any requests of posts like this, let me know. Check out other helpful posts here.
DO’S 👍
Before getting it: Research: check the artists’ portfolios and don’t be afraid of asking people about the artist. You can walk by the studio to know it better too. Get lots of references: that’s never enough. If you can draw, you can definately use it as reference. Give as much details as you can about your tattoo regarding size, style, placement, colors and anything you would like to include or not. Express your ideas, as crazy as they might seem. A good work don’t come cheap: expect to pay a reasonable price for a good piece of artwork. Ask questions: if you’re unsure of any detail, ask! Don’t hold back any questions or you might regret in the future. Eat something before your tattoo: stress + empty stomach is not a good idea, so eat somethig like fruits, bread or crackers (anything with carbs and sugar are great). Trust your artist: he knows what’s better for you. Drink lots of water: a hydrated skin is more likely to not reject the ink and have a better healing process.
While getting it: It does hurt: a lot for some, nothing for others, but usually not as bad as people say. It’s okay to bring a friend with you. Talk to the artist: the more comfortable you feel with them, the better. If you’re bored or don’t feel like talking, entertain yourself: listening to music, reading, playing with your phone, anything is valid as long as you don’t bother your artist. Always stay still: if the position you’re in is bugging you, tell the artist first so they’ll have time to stop tattooing you before you move. It’s normal to have involuntary spasms so don’t worry. Dress accordingly: be sure you wear something comfortable and that gives easy access to the area you’re getting tattooed.
After getting it: Tip your artist: people usually give 20%-25% tip. If you’re going through a lot of sessions that’s up to you on wheter tip between the sessions or only when you finish it. Always follow your artist’s advice on how to take care of your tattoo. Make sure you always keep your new tattoo clean: use cold/lukewarm water and neutral soap, gently rubbing it on the tattoo. Pat dry it with a paper towel. Moisturize it: there are mixed opinions about it, but if you use any kind of lotion/ointment be sure to only use a very thin layer of it. If it icthes: you can gently pat it, put a very thin layer of lotion or take a shower. Use loose clothing to let your tattoo breath. Be careful with your bedding set: in the first few days it can get stained with the ink that will leak.
When healed: Always use sunscreen and keep it moisturized for better aging. Get it retouched after some years or as you think it’s needed.
DON’TS 👎
Before getting it: Expect an artist to copy a tattoo: some might, but professionals won’t, that’s how you tell them apart. Copy tattoos: that’s never cool. you can read more about it here. Do drugs, alcohol or go with an empty stomach: alcohol is a blood thinner and that will make you bleed more than usual. If you don’t eat anything you can pass out or make your blood pressure get low. Ignore your artist: always listen and follow what they say.
While getting it: Keep your artist waiting: be on time, don’t waste yours and theirs time. Expect your artist to mock or make indelicate questions about your body (for example, scars): that’s not an attitude of a professional. if you feel harassed or uncomfortable with an artist, think about choosing another one. Bring kids or lots of people: artists need peace to work and a bunch of people and kids are really annoying. Get it ilegally or at home: that could be very dangerous and cause infections and diseases. Plus, it’ll probably look bad and fade quickly.
After getting it: Leave the plastic film for a long time: your tattoo needs to breath, so it’s recommended to take it off at least after a few hours and have it cleaned. Pick scabs or scratch it: you’ll take the risk of ruining your tattoo. Sunbathe or stay for a long time in the sun. Put hot water on it: it opens the pores and cause leaching of ink out of your skin. It will also make easier for the germs to get in. Soak it: avoid baths, pools, beaches, working out, hot tubes or saunas. Cover your tattoo with anything: in order to heal properly, it needs to breath. Try to remove it at home or with people that aren’t professionals: if you don’t like your tattoo, always look for a professional.
All this post was based on personal experiences and things taken from the internet. Always follow your artist’s advice. Let me know if there’s anything that might be wrong or you think should be added. Check out my faq and other useful tips.
