Getting ready for a tattoo appointment is pretty simple, but a little preparation can make the experience much more comfortable.
Quick Answer
Before your tattoo appointment, focus on the basics: get a good sleep, eat a proper meal, stay hydrated, and arrive with clean skin.
If your tattoo session will take several hours, it is also a good idea to bring something to help pass the time.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water in the day or two leading up to your appointment.
Well hydrated skin is generally more comfortable to work with, and you will probably feel better during a longer session too.
Try not to show up dehydrated after a late night or a day of barely drinking anything.
Eat Before Your Appointment
Have a proper meal before you arrive.
Tattoo appointments can take time, and sitting through a session on an empty stomach is never ideal.
A balanced meal beforehand can help you feel more comfortable and steady throughout the appointment.
For longer sessions, bringing a small snack can also be a good idea.
Arrive With Clean Skin
Shower before your appointment and make sure the area being tattooed is clean.
Avoid applying heavy lotions, oils, self tanner, or other products to the area unless your artist has told you otherwise.
Your artist will prepare the skin before tattooing, so you do not need to overthink it.
Wear the Right Clothing
Choose clothing that gives your artist easy access to the area being tattooed.
For example:
- Wear shorts for a thigh tattoo
- Choose a loose tank top for a shoulder or upper arm tattoo
- Wear clothing that you do not mind potentially getting ink on
Comfort matters too, especially if you will be sitting for a few hours.
Bring Entertainment for Longer Sessions
If your tattoo will take several hours, bring something to keep yourself occupied.
That could include:
- Headphones
- A podcast or audiobook
- Music
- A book
- A tablet
- A fully charged phone
Just make sure whatever you bring does not interfere with your artist being able to position you properly.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Being rested can make a long appointment feel much easier.
Try to avoid showing up exhausted. Your body is already doing work during the tattoo process, so starting the day feeling rested can help.
Avoid Alcohol Before Your Appointment
Skip alcohol before your tattoo session.
It can affect how you feel during the appointment and may increase bleeding, which can make the tattooing process more difficult.
It is better to arrive hydrated, rested, and clear headed.
Bring What You Need
Depending on the length of your appointment, consider bringing:
- Water
- A light snack
- Headphones
- Phone charger
- Any reference images your artist has asked for
- Comfortable extra layers if you tend to get cold
Follow Your Artist’s Instructions
Every artist may have slightly different preferences.
If your tattoo artist gives you specific preparation instructions, follow those first. They know what will make the session go as smoothly as possible.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Preparing for your tattoo does not need to be complicated.
Show up rested, hydrated, fed, clean, and comfortable. If it is a longer session, bring something to keep yourself entertained and settle in.
The better prepared you are, the easier it is to focus on the exciting part: watching your new tattoo come to life.