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Before/During/After

Below are just what I offer as best practices and information about getting a tattoo. Please listen to your body before, during and after a tattoo appointment. Your skin will tell you what you need!  I offer these as my professional opinions as an artist, and not as medical advice. 

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Before your apppointment

What should I bring? Does it hurt?

Tattoos are different for every person. They feel different on different parts of the body. What your friend told you about tattoos, may not be the same for you. Here are some best practices for prepping for your first or tenth tattoo. 

  • Drink lots of water! Skin needs to be hydrated to accept ink better!

  • Take a shower. Clean skin is our friend.

  • No lotions on the part of the body you want tattooed. 

  • If you are super hairy, pre-shave. Do this the night before so your skin is not irritated.

  • Tattoos do hurt, but the pain is different than most things you might normally think of as painful. It varies per person.

  • Ribs, top of the feet, buttocks, elbows, and inner joint areas (armpits etc) do hurt worse than other areas. 

  • You may be asked to lay in a weird, uncomfortable positions. We have to create as flat as a surface we can.

  • We have to stretch your skin to make sure the ink goes in and will stay in. 

  • Bring a snack. Bring a protein bar, candy, or any other snack.

  • Bring water. Water will help replenish the skin quicker. 

Can I eat during my tattoo?

You are in control of your appointment. If you need a break, snack, or water, just ask!  I will take a break to make sure you are comfortable.  Here are a few things to consider:

  • Tattoos take a lot out of you!  

  • You could feel lightheaded, you could get hungry, you could get hot and sweaty, all of this is normal and expected.

  • Do not be afraid to say something. A lot of times people think we are these mystical beings putting art on you. I am just a guy trying to provide a great experience for you. Do not be afraid to ask for a break, a bathroom break, or just to stretch.

  • Speak up if you do not like anything about the design, stencil placement, or color choices. A tattoo is permanent on you. 

  • Let me know if you are allergic to anything. This is very important!

  • Bring a friend. Bring someone that will help take your mind off the tattoo.

  • Bring headphones. You may not want to talk to me, that is okay!  You may want to listen to music or watch a show while getting a tattoo.

  • Be courteous!  I have so much respect for you! I just ask for the same from you!

  • Do not bring children. Ultimately let's try to find another time if you do not have someone to watch over your children.

  • Sorry no pets either. Health department does not allow pets near anyone receiving a tattoo. Please reach out to me before hand about service animals. ESA animals are not allowed, even under Title II and Title III of the ADA. 

  • Bring time. Even though we may book a specific time frame, we may see that we need more time. If you are feeling rushed, you will not have a good experience.

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During your appointment

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After your appointment

OMG You did it!  You got inked!

You did it, you got that fresh tattoo. Now what? Here are some helpful reminders for you:

  • As soon as we are finished, and we have gotten some photos, I will wrap your tattoo with a clear plastic barrier known as tegaderm. It is a medical grade barrier that protects your fresh tattoo from bacteria, water, and other nasty elements. 

  • If you are allergic to band aids please let me know and I will cover it in an alternative bandage. 

  • I recommend leaving the tegaderm on for 48-72 hours. 

  • Once you peel the film off (ideally under running water) you want to clean your tattoo 2-3 times a day with water and soap. Soap that is free from dyes, perfumes, and any other unnatural elements, for example, Dial Gold Bar.

  • I recommend using coconut oil, shea butter, or cocoa butter for moisturizing your tattoo 2-3 times a day. 

  • After the first week, your tattoo will begin to flake off old skin, and grow new skin over the tattoo.

  • Your tattoo will itch during this time. Try not to scratch it. Use the coconut oil to relieve it.

  • Stay out of the sun for two weeks. 

  • Stay out of bodies of water for two weeks. 

  • Remember, the better you take care of your tattoo during the healing process, the better it will be for a long time. 

Have more questions?

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