Whether it's your first tattoo meeting or your last, there
are a few things you can always do to get ready for that session. We've put
together these tips on how to prepare for your tattoo session to make it as
comfortable as possible for us.
Moisturize you
Maintain body hydration during your tattoo session. While it
is generally recommended to drink water at all times to maintain normal body
function and good health, it is especially important to do so when getting a
tattoo.
Good hydration makes the skin firmer, allowing longer tattoo
sessions and allowing the skin to heal faster after the session.
Moisturize the skin
Just like you should moisturize your skin from the inside
out by drinking water, you should also moisturize it from the outside with a
moisturizer.
Apply cream or lotion to your skin once or twice a day for a
week before your tattoo session.
Keeping your skin hydrated is one of the most important
steps to take as it makes everything easier for you and the tattoo artist.
Please do not moisturize your skin immediately before the session, as this may
affect the operation of the tattoo machine.
To shave
Shave where the tattoo will be to create the smoothest
surface you can work with. If you are not used to shaving, ask someone you know
who shaves regularly for help. A cut or puncture in the skin, however minor,
can prevent you from getting a tattoo on time. Therefore, take extra care not
to damage your skin while shaving.
A small amount of blonde or frizzy body hair is acceptable,
but hairless is best for ideal results. If you do choose waxing, be sure to do
it a few days before the tattoo so that the skin does not irritate, but shortly
before the hair has time to grow back. After waxing, your skin needs time to
heal before you can get a tattoo.
Remember, it is important to hydrate your skin after shaving
to keep it healthy and ready for your tattoo session. Avoid using an
alcohol-based aftershave as it will dry out your skin.
You should shave this area one to three times a week several
weeks before your tattoo session, especially if you have a lot of body hair.
Removing hair will not only make it easier for the tattoo artist, but it will
also help the moisturizing lotion penetrate your skin and prepare it for the
tattoo.
If you feel redness while shaving, stop shaving and allow
your skin to heal for at least a week before going for a tattoo.
