Prior to getting a tattoo, there’s a little bit of prepwork you can do that’ll go a long way. Some are pretty obvious, but you’d be surprised at how often they’re skipped over. Here are a few tips to get you ready for your next session like a pro, from the pros.
Showing up to your appointment with a good night’s rest in your system will help with pain management and mental clarity, which is particularly important when you’re considering the perfect placement and size for your tattoo. It doesn’t sound like much, but anyone who has done it will know how tiring it is to lie sideways or slumped over an armrest chair for hours on end. Being well rested will give you the energy to sit for those hours.
Drawing on the previous point, if your body doesn’t have enough energy, your tattoo session may be harder to manage. You may feel the pain a little more and if your blood glucose level is low, there’s a chance you may faint. This can be disorienting for not only for yourself but for the artist, and time might be lost to ensuring that you’re in a right state to continue. If you’re not much of a breakfast person and are getting tattooed in the morning, we recommend bringing along some lollies or snacks, or even a bit of fruit and a drink to keep you going.
The best thing to wear to your tattoo session is something comfortable and loose fitting, that you’re not too fussed about getting ink on. If you’re getting tattooed on the thigh, it can help to bring along a pair of shorts to change into to ensure your own comfort. For tattoos in difficult places like the ribcage, sternum or hip/towards the bottom, consider wearing a bikini or thong so that the stencil and fresh tattoo isn’t caught under fabric throughout the session.
The better care you take of your skin, the better the tattoo will take and heal over time. Moisturising every day the week before your appointment (or every day in general) contributes to the quality of your skin, often making it easier for artists while tattooing. On the day of, simply wash the area you’re getting tattooed and don’t moisturise, as it can mess with the stencilling ink.
Aspirins, ibuprofen, alcohol and obviously blood thinning medication should be avoided if possible. It always best to inform your artist of any medication that you’ve taken so they’re not surprised when you’re bleeding more than usual.
Don’t be afraid to speak up! If you’re unsure about aftercare, placement, or anything in between—just ask. Your artist is there to help you feel confident and informed.
For health and safety (and your artist’s sanity), please come alone to your tattoo appointment. Too many people in a tattoo studio can be distracting and take up space. Here at Authentink, we don’t mind if you bring a friend, but they can’t be in the actual procedure area. We have a waiting room that they can hang out in, or they can have a little wander around the area!
– SHOWER (Please! We know it seems obvious. But there’s a reason it’s on this list).
– Bring some snacks, drink and a charger if you’re in for a longer session
– Make sure to bring cash or a working bank card
– Go in with a calm mindset and a willingness to tough out the pain!
There you go, some tips to help you prepare for your next tattoo session! If there’s anything we’ve missed or you’re still wondering about, don’t hesitate to get in touch over email at shop@authentink.com, give us a call at (02) 8399 1973, or submit a booking inquiry form. We’re keen to hear from you!