Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but there’s some prep involved to ensure you’re in the best shape for the session and the healing process. Here are some tips to help you get ready so you can focus on the art and enjoy the experience!
1. Exfoliate & Moisturise in the Days Leading Up to Your Appointment
In the days before your appointment, take a little extra care with your skin. Gently exfoliate the tattoo area to remove dead skin cells and give your skin a fresh canvas. Follow up with a good moisturiser to keep the skin hydrated, but don’t apply it on the day of your tattoo (we’ll get to that in a sec).
2. Hair Removal: Plan Ahead
If you’re planning to remove any hair before your tattoo, it’s best to make a plan! While it’s not mandatory, it can make things easier. If you want to wax or use a hair removal cream, make sure it’s something your skin agrees with well in advance to avoid irritation on the day of your appointment. And if you prefer to shave, do it the the morning of to keep the area clean and smooth. Read more about pre-tattoo hair removal here.
3. Protect Your Skin: Avoid Sun Exposure
This one’s important—avoid sun exposure on the area where you’ll be getting tattooed. Sunburnt or peeling skin cannot be tattooed as it is already in a state of damage and distress. So make sure to keep the area covered or use sunscreen in the days leading up to your appointment.
4. Get Plenty of Sleep
A well-rested body makes for a more comfortable tattoo experience. Fatigue can make your pain tolerance lower and your skin more sensitive, which means getting tattooed might be a lot more uncomfortable. Aim for a full night’s sleep before your appointment to help your body stay calm and relaxed.
5. Shower Before You Arrive
On the day of your appointment, make sure you take a nice, refreshing shower. Cleanse the tattoo area with soap and water and dry off with a fresh towel—this will help remove any oils, dirt, germs or other residue that may affect the tattoo process. And remember, don’t apply any moisturiser to the area on the day itself. As this leaves another residue will interfere with the stencilling process.
6. Wear Comfortable, Clean Clothes
Wear something comfortable and clean that allows easy access to the tattoo area. You might even want to wear clothes you don’t mind getting ink on—because, let’s face it, it happens! If you’re getting tattooed in a tricky to reach spot, consider something flexible or adjustable. More on that later.
7. Eat a Good Meal
Never come to your tattoo appointment on an empty stomach! Your body needs fuel to stay energised throughout the session. You might just be sitting there but you’d be surprised how much work your body does while getting tattooed. A meal with a healthy balance of protein and carbs is ideal to keep your blood sugar stable and ensure you’re feeling your best.
8. Bring Snacks & Drinks
Tattoo sessions can be long, so pack some snacks, sugary drinks, or treats to keep your blood sugar levels up. Having a few munchies will help keep you from getting light-headed or fatigued. You’ll appreciate having something to snack on when you’re in the chair for a few hours. And if you’re in for a full day session, pack a lunch or get some food delivered. You may not feel overly hungry while getting tattooed, but I promise you, you will feel so much better if you make sure to eat some lunch.
9. Leave the Drugs, Alcohol, & Excessive Caffeine at Home
Avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and excessive caffeine before your tattoo appointment. These can thin your blood, making the tattoo process more difficult, or dehydrate you and increase sensitivity. You want to give your body the best chance to stay calm and still throughout the session!
10. Bring Entertainment
Long tattoo sessions are the perfect time to get lost in a podcast, audiobook, or binge a Netflix series. Pack your headphones and make sure you’ve got something entertaining to distract you while your artist works their magic. It’ll help pass the time and keep you relaxed.
11. Bring Sunglasses & Warm Layers
Here’s a pro tip—bring your sunglasses! The bright studio lights, while essential for us to see the fine details of your tattoo, can sometimes shine right in your eyes. A pair of sunnies will help make you more comfortable during the process.
Also, the adrenaline from the pain response can make some people feel chilly. Bring a jumper, hoodie, or even a blanket or pillow to help keep you comfy and cozy during the session. It’ll make the whole experience feel a lot more relaxing!
12. Clothing for Easy Access
If your tattoo is in a place that requires partial undressing (think upper thigh, ribs, hip, back, or chest), bring clothing that’s easy to remove or adjust around the area to be tattooed. Loose or stretchy garments, strapless tops, and button-up shirts worn backward are all excellent choices. For women, garments like stick-on bras, string bikinis/g-strings or wrap dresses are great options that can provide access to different areas without having to feel completely exposed.
Getting ready for your tattoo appointment is a big part of the process! Proper preparation will make everything easier, from the session itself to aftercare. With these tips in hand, you’ll walk into your appointment feeling confident and prepared.
Got any other prep tips of your own? Drop them in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!