You may be feeling quite nervous about getting your first tattoo. After all, this is not a decision you can take lightly. A tattoo is a spot of permanent ink on your sink, so you cannot afford to feel ambivalent about your choice. You must search for tattoo artists in your area because a certified one can make a massive difference in terms of quality and safety. You don’t want a fly-by-the-night tattoo shop that will compromise your health.
Now that you are done pouring over thousands of tattoo designs, you have finally settled on the one you like and the place where you want to put it. If you are still feeling nervous about it, don’t worry. What you are feeling is totally normal. To help you with your jitters, read on so you can manage your expectations, especially if this is your first time tattooing. Being informed will help you help handle your fears, so you can get the best experience possible.
Do Your Due Diligence
Do your homework and diligently search for tattoo artists near you before deciding on the perfect one. This is the most crucial step. You must go to a reputable shop because you don’t want to get sick by saving money on those that reuse their needles and use substandard ink. The latter will result in a crappy tattoo with splotchy ink that fades fast. Not all tattoo shops are created equal, so ask for referrals, check online reviews, and read testimonials.
If you are getting a Greek inscription inked, verify with a native speaker if you got the design right. Some artists also have specialties, so you may need to look for the one that has expertise in your chosen design. You may end up forking a premium for quality craftsmanship, but it will be worth it. As a rule of thumb, remember, in this industry, you get what you pay.
Eat and Stay Hydrated Before You Go
You must keep your stomach calm by eating something. It would be a nightmare to throw up and pass out due to your nervousness. Usually, when you feel very tense, your stomach will release even more acid as a natural body response. If you don’t eat, you will be setting yourself up for trouble. Apart from feeling a dull ache coming from the needle, you may end up with an excruciatingly painful stomach ache.
Do yourself a favor and eat something light before your session. Be sure to stay hydrated as well. Remember, the body is 75% water, so you want your skin plump, moist, and hydrated when you start your tattoo session.
Dress in Comfortable Clothes
You must dress in loose and comfortable clothes, especially if you’re having your tattoo placed in hard-to-reach spots like your lower back, back of your leg, or your bum. When you dress in comfortable clothing, it will also help you relax. Wearing loungewear will make you feel right at home in the tattoo shop, which will do wonders in killing your jitters and making you calm.
Bring a Supportive Friend
Some people who go for the first time end up chickening out. After searching for a tattoo artist in your area and spending a lot of time researching designs, it would be best to go ahead with your session. It would be a shame to waste all your hard work and time.
For best results, bring a friend with you, especially if you are scared. If you have someone to hold your hand and cheer you upon seeing the needle, it will go a long way to help you settle down. Sometimes, chatting with your friend makes your tattoo session go by faster because you are distracted from the pain.
Take After-Care Seriously
This is one of the most crucial considerations when you get your tattoo. After sitting through a long session, the design is finally done. When you analyze it, what you have on your skin is a slight abrasion coming from the tattoo needle. It is still, in essence, a wound. But unlike other injuries, what you have on your skin is a beautiful mark.
Keeping your new tattoo clean after your procedure is vital. Be sure to sanitize the area with antiseptic and apply topical antibiotic ointment during the first few days. You must take this seriously because you want to steer clear from infection. On top of that, be sure to keep your tattoo away from the sun as harsh UV rays can cause your ink to fade.
Final Word
When you are getting a tattoo for the first time, it is crucial to do your homework. This is a lasting decision that you cannot erase simply because you changed your mind. Take your time to choose the best design that showcases your personality. Above all, you must analyze where to place your body art so you can wear this new “accessory” with pride. Pick the most reputable tattoo shop because the resident artist must have the necessary skills for your tattoo dreams to come alive.