Dos And Donts When Getting A Tattoo

Getting a tattoo, especially when it’s your first, is a really exciting process. However, there are some important things to consider before you go to your appointment. Let’s look at the dos and donts when getting a tattoo

Don’t Drink Before A Tattoo

I’m sure we can all think of at least one on-screen example of someone getting a tattoo drunk. Although it’s usually the results that are frowned upon, the experience of getting a tattoo drunk isn’t very pleasant either. You are much more likely to experience heavy bleeding, which in return will affect the result of the tattoo and can make you even more light-headed. On top of that, you really should not want to be getting a tattoo if your judgement is clouded. And besides, it’s kind of disrespectful to your tattoo artist and they might turn you away.  And no parties the night before – you should get a good night’s sleep

Do Shower

Aside from making your skin easier to tattoo, showering is also a way to show your respect and appreciation to your tattoo artist. It’s something like ‘Tattoo Etiquette’. It demonstrates proper manners. So before getting a tattoo, take a shower and make sure you are clean and fresh. Especially if your tattoo artist is working around your armpits!

Do Eat Before A Tattoo

It’s a good idea to have a nice meal before getting a tattoo. Foods containing a high level of Vitamin C are usually recommended, as they are said to help with the healing process. So citrus fruits, sweet potato, cauliflower, broccoli. However, I do like having comfort food as my meal before getting a tattoo because it calms me down and I’ve never had a problem with recovery, so you don’t need to follow a strict meal plan. But don’t shy away from your vitamins. For example, I always get vitamin water after getting a tattoo. 

Don’t Have Coffee And Don’t Take Aspirin

Coffee and aspirin, along with alcohol are known blood thinners. They could cause unwanted bleeding. That’s also why you shouldn’t take aspirin before some surgeries. 

Do Bring Water And Snacks

Tattoos can take a while and it is very likely that you will get thirsty. Dehydration is the last thing you want since it could make you feel light-headed or sick. Fill up your water bottle and bring it along with you. Having something to nibble on is also a good ideal. I personally bring along nuts and chocolate.

Don’t Scratch It

We’ve all experienced this with wounds. When they start healing, they start itching. Don’t scratch your tattoo. If you are really struggling, you can lightly tap it to ease your urge. 

Do Your Aftercare Routine

Either bring your aftercare cream along or buy one after getting your tattoo. The type of aftercare cream depends on preference, so don’t be surprised if people recommend different ones. Your tattoo artist will likely let you know what you have to do to care for your new tattoo. 

Don’t settle

Getting a tattoo is an important decision and you have to make sure that you are 100% certain of the design before the artist starts working on your skin. Simultaneously, don’t completely disregard the tattoo artist’s ideas and suggestions as they are the professionals. Work with them to create something that you love. 

Do Share

Tell your artist about any medical conditions you have or if you are taking any medication. That way the artist can make sure that the process is as safe as possible. 

Don’t blabber

Some tattoo artists don’t like talking when they are tattooing. Personally, my favourite tattoo artists like listening to music and I vibe to the music with them, rather than try to keep up small talk. Though, I don’t really like talking when getting a tattoo, anyway. In general, whatever your personal case is, it’s important that both parties feel comfortable

What are your dos and donts when getting a tattoo? Share in the comments.

Featured image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/B_VLJouyKR4