Getting a new tattoo can be exciting, and a little nerve racking! I still get nervous every time I get tattooed and I’ve been getting tattooed for over 15 years! Don’t worry. I’ve put together a list of some simple things you can do to better prepare yourself for your new tattoo.
Tips for getting tattooed:
Hydrate yourself:
- drink lots of water in the 24 hours before your appointment, I recommend lemon, lime or cucumber slices as well
Avoid thinning your blood:
- avoid aspirin or any other blood thinning medications if possible
- avoid excessive alcohol consumption the night before (trust me, getting tattooed hungover is the absolute worst!)
Moisturize:
- moisturize the area you’re getting tattooed daily for 3-7 days before your appointment, especially if you’re getting tattooed anywhere near your hands, elbows, knees, shins or calves; shins/calves can get especially dry as it’s a place we often don’t think to moisturize on the regular
Dress appropriately:
- wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area on your body that will be tattooed
- expect to have to fully expose the general area that you will be getting tattooed, this is extremely important because I cannot put a stencil on straight and properly if I cannot access the area fully and easily (if you are feeling self conscious please request a Sunday appointment-read Booking Info section for more info)
- wear pasties if you are getting your chest or sternum area tattooed; I can provide cut pieces of dental bibs and tape if you do not have pasties or do not want to purchase pasties **myself and all the artists I work with are extremely professional and tattoo all walks of life and all body types, we are not judging you by your body’s appearance**
- The shop does have stand-up/folding screens for extra privacy.
- clothing may end up permanently stained during your tattoo so please keep that in mind when choosing what to wear
Take care of yourself / what to bring:
- be well rested, get a good, full nights sleep
- eat a full meal within 4 hours of your appointment (something nutritious recommended)
- bring snack(s) and a beverage if you’d like; I’d recommend bringing water at least, we usually have bottled water for clients but on rare occasions we run out
- bring headphones or a book if you’d like
I can keep light conversation while tattooing, but I usually have a headphone in to get in the zone; I encourage you to do what you need to also get in your zone/comfort place - feel free to bring a pillow and blanket (reasonably sized) if you know you will be laying down for your tattoo
What you need to bring:
- you will need to bring your valid, state issued drivers license, ID, military ID, or passport in order to get tattooed
Additional things to note during your tattoo:
- Relax! Getting tattooed is definitely uncomfortable, but it is not typically an unbearable pain. Know that I strive to create a comfortable and relaxed environment for all of my clients.
- Try to remain still and relaxed while getting your tattoo. Try to refrain from sudden movements like readjusting your body, reaching for your phone or drink, etc. These movements can effect the outcome of your tattoo. If you need a quick break or breather, or you are uncomfortable in any way- just let me know!
Numbing Cream:
- If you’d like to use numbing cream, that is completely at your discretion. I definitely encourage the use of numbing cream! In my personal experience, it never completely numbs the area for the entire session, but it certainly makes it less painful and easier to tolerate. All numbing cream directions are provided with the product and completely up to you to follow. I currently do not provide any numbing cream to any client and I do not provide any numbing cream instructions.
I recommend doing your own personal research and find a brand that feels right for you. I would recommend using a product that has 5% lidocaine or less. Anything higher could be potentially dangerous, especially to those with heart issues or other major health concerns. Feel free to bring your numbing cream with you if you choose to use it. I can reapply it throughout the tattoo session to ease any pain/discomfort. - If you have further questions, feel free to email me or DM on instagram any time!
Morgan Lusardi 