Tattoos are brilliant – they are one of the best modes of self-expression. For you too, the decision to get a tattoo must be a big one. Getting inked for the first time is a unique experience. Tattoos are beautiful, and if you prepare and plan certain things beforehand, the experience would be much more pleasant. There are certain things which are definite must-dos before getting a tat. Check out these 10 things you should do before going for your first tattoo:
Avoid sensitive areas
As it’s your first tattoo, you wouldn’t know your body’s pain tolerance level. You have to respect your body, especially if you have sensitive skin, and avoid choosing elbows, back of knees, ribs or other tender places on your body.
Avoid sunburnt areas
Sunburnt skin is damaged skin, and getting a tattoo over that will further damage your skin. It will also be more painful, and there will be problems with ink dilution as well. Also, any scratches, cuts and unhealed scars can create uneven skin patches, which would make it difficult for the tattoo artist. Moisturize your skin for a couple of weeks before going for the tattoo, so that your skin becomes supple and soft and easy for the artist to work with.
Select a design
A tattoo is an expression of your beliefs, your likes, what you stand for. It will be a permanent part of you. Keep this in mind and select a design which is unique and represents you to the world. It could be a symbol, an animal, a quote or anything which means something to you.
Think of the colors too, before going to the tattoo artist. Take your time to select the design, as tattoo removal is an extremely painful process as well as expensive and it’s wise to choose a design you are really happy with.
Start small
As it’s your first tattoo, choose a small design. This will let you know your pain threshold, and if it’s more than you expected, you don’t have to spend a lot of time in the chair.
Research the artist
Find out as much as you can about the artist as you can. It’s best to go to one referred by a trusted friend, or about whom you have heard a lot. Check out online reviews and check the tattoo portfolio of the artist in his shop or online.
Stay away from alcohol and aspirin
Excess alcohol in the blood thins the blood, which means excessive bleeding while you are getting the tattoo. And you’ll feel horrible sitting in the chair if you have a bad hangover.
Avoid aspirin for 24 hours before your scheduled tattoo session, as aspirin is a blood thinner too.
Stay hydrated
Drink lots of water which will keep you hydrated and healthy. It will make you more energetic and alert too. It’s important for skin to be hydrated as a hydrated skin absorbs the ink easily.
Eat prior to your appointment
You should eat well before going for the tattoo, as it will stop you getting dizzy and light headed. High protein meal will help you get through the tattooing.
Get a lot of rest
Tattooing is a slow process and takes plenty of time. If you don’t have enough rest, you’ll be fidgety and grouchy and this might have a bad effect on the tattoo.
Wear comfy clothes
You should wear comfortable clothes as you would be spending quite a bit of time in the tattoo parlor.
Plan for your aftercare. You have to take certain precautions such as staying out of water and sun for many weeks, as well as the aftercare instructions given by the tattoo artist.