Before your Tattoo Appointment
1. Fuel Up Before Your Appointment
Arriving at your appointment feeling famished is not advisable, particularly if you're about to endure a longer tattoo session. It's crucial to maintain your energy levels during the process, making a balanced and nourishing meal essential. Not only does it support your body in coping with the needle's sensations, but it also has a positive impact on your mental state, ensuring you're better equipped to handle the session with ease and comfort.
2. Stay Hydrated
To ensure a successful tattoo experience, it's vital to prioritize hydration 24 hours before your appointment. Drinking plenty of water not only benefits your overall health but also prepares your skin for the upcoming session, as well-hydrated skin receives ink more effectively, resulting in a smoother process for your artist. If you haven't had the chance to hydrate adequately, consider keeping a water bottle with you during your tattoo session.
Conversely, it's essential to avoid alcohol 24 hours prior to your appointment. Rest assured, during all appointments, we have water available at the studio, so don't hesitate to ask during your session.
After the completion of your tattoo, maintaining proper hydration becomes even more critical for the recovery and healing process. Your body has been through a lot, and water will be your most reliable ally in this journey. Embrace this amazing hydration habit to facilitate a speedy and optimal healing experience.
3. Rest Well - Get A Good Night's Sleep
Preparing for your tattoo appointment includes getting a good night's sleep, as being well-rested is crucial for staying alert and in tune with your body. When getting tattooed, it's essential to read your body's signals and react appropriately. To ensure adequate rest, I recommend going to bed earlier than usual, allowing extra time to relax and fall asleep, particularly if you're feeling nervous about the upcoming appointment. Prioritising sleep will help you approach your tattoo session with a clear mind and increased comfort.
4. Shower
While it may seem like common sense, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of showering before your tattoo appointment. Maintaining daily hygiene is essential, but prior to your session, it becomes even more critical. Tattooing involves creating small cuts and opening the skin, making cleanliness paramount. Avoid arriving for your appointment right after an intense gym session or a game of basketball, as your skin may not be as clean as necessary. Besides, subjecting your artist to the smell of sweat and dirt during the close and delicate tattooing process wouldn't be ideal. By showering beforehand, you ensure a clean canvas for the artwork and a more pleasant experience.
5. Moisturize Your Skin
Before proceeding, it's crucial to refrain from moisturising your skin on the day of your tattoo appointment to avoid any potential issues with the needle, tattoo machine, or ink application.
As your tattoo appointment approaches, incorporating a regular moisturizing routine is beneficial. Applying a moisturizer 1-2 times a day for 5-7 days before your tattoo session will help keep your skin in optimal condition. During the winter months, when skin tends to be drier, it becomes even more crucial to pay extra attention to its appearance and feel, particularly if your appointment falls between December and February. By nurturing your skin with proper moisturization, you ensure an ideal canvas for the tattooing process.
6. Dress Comfortably
Comfort is paramount during your tattoo session, so it's crucial to wear a comfortable outfit. Opting for loose clothing ensures that you won't be plagued by random itching or overheating, and it grants you the freedom to readjust your position if discomfort arises. Moreover, loose attire allows your artist easy access to the tattooed area, promoting a seamless process. However, I advise against wearing white or new clothing that you wouldn't want to risk getting stencil or ink on, to safeguard your cherished garments from any accidental smudges.
7. Numbing Cream
In order to ensure a smooth and successful tattooing experience, we kindly request that you refrain from applying any numbing cream to the area prior to your appointment unless you have discussed this with Jacqueline. Numbing creams can affect the skin's texture and can potentially interfere with the tattooing process. Instead, we encourage you to consult with Jacqueline before your scheduled appointment. So, please don't hesitate to reach out for any queries or clarifications regarding your tattoo appointment.