Getting your first tattoo can be very exciting; however, if can also be very overwhelming since you don’t know what to expect. This article will educate you on the tattoo process so that you can feel 100% prepared.
Research
Before deciding what tattoo shop you want to complete your tattoo, it is important to do extensive research on the shop and the tattoo artist as well. You need to make sure that the artist and shop are licensed and professional. Visiting the tattoo shop before actually having work done is a great way to check out the shop’s atmosphere and the different artist.
Be Curious
A tattoo is a lifetime commitment, so please don’t be afraid to ask the tattoo artist questions before, during, and after the tattoo. If the tattoo artist is reluctant to answer your questions, this is a bad sign. A good, experienced artist will welcome your questions and be able to answer them knowledgeably.
Self Care
The day of your appointment be sure to eat a full meal. Not eating could cause light headedness and dizziness which could result in fainting during your appointment. Also, do not drink alcohol or take any drugs before getting your tattoo done. Alcohol is a blood thinner and could cause you to bleed more while getting your tattoo.
Be Comfortable
Depending on how big the tattoo is, your appointment could take hours to complete. It is important to wear comfortable clothing so that you are as comfortable as possible during the appointment. You also need to make sure you are wearing clothes that are easily accessible to where you want the tattoo to be on your body.
ID
In the United States, the legal age to get a tattoo is 18. Please be sure that you are 18 and over when going to a tattoo shop alone. In addition, please be sure to bring your ID with you. Most shops will not complete any work unless ID is present. Furthermore, if you are under 18 and still want a tattoo, most shops allow teens to get tattoos as long as a parent is present. Usually both parties need to have an ID present. However, shops are not required to tattoo minors, even if the parent is present. So please contact the shop to check their policy.
Research More
Before scheduling an appointment you should already know the tattoo you want to get. Some tattoo shops charge by the hour, and it would be wasteful to be charged while trying to figure out what tattoo you’d like.
Aftercare
The aftercare of your tattoo is the most important step of the process. Not caring for a tattoo correctly is not good. After you’ve received your tattoo, you will need to keep the bandage on for 2-4 hours. You should not take baths during the healing process for your tattoo. Moreover, when showering, only use warm water and do not scrub your new tattoo. You should ask your tattoo professional what is the best, if any, ointment to use.
Relax
Now that you know how to prepare for your tattoo and how to care for it afterward, you should research tattoo shops, make an appointment, relax, and let the professional do his or her job! If you would like more information about getting your first tattoo, visit the San Marcos Tattoo Emporium, located in San Marcos, TX.
