What to do when preparing for Your Tattoo 1–2 Weeks
Before Your Appointment:
Hydrate:
Drink plenty of water every day. Well-hydrated skin is more elastic, making the tattooing process smoother and helping your skin accept ink more easily.
Exfoliate Gently:
Use a gentle sugar scrub 1–2 weeks leading up to your appointment (I recommend Dr. Teal's Body Scrub). Avoid exfoliating within 48 hours of your appointment to prevent irritation or micro-abrasions.
Moisturize:
Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to the area daily for 1–2 weeks leading up to your appointment. I recommend Lubriderm, CeraVe, or Jergens. Healthy, moisturized skin tattoos and heals better.
Protect From the Sun:
Avoid sunburns and tanning the area for at least two weeks before your appointment. Sun-damaged skin is more sensitive, bleeds more easily, and may prevent me from tattooing the area safely.
The Day of Your Appointment:
Sleep Well:
Get a good night's sleep before your appointment. Being well rested helps you sit more comfortably during longer sessions.
Eat a Good Meal:
Have a solid meal before your appointment to help maintain your blood sugar and energy levels.
Stay Hydrated:
Continue drinking water throughout the day before your appointment.
Avoid Alcohol:
Please avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your appointment. Alcohol thins your blood, which can increase bleeding and make tattooing more difficult.
Limit Caffeine:
If possible, avoid caffeine before your appointment. If you do have some, try to limit it to one caffeinated drink, as too much caffeine can make you feel jittery and increase sensitivity and thins your blood making tattooing more difficult.
Leave Products Off:
Do not apply lotion, oils, sunscreen, perfume, or other skincare products to the area being tattooed. These can prevent the stencil from adhering properly.
Wear Comfortable Clothing:
Wear loose-fitting clothing that provides easy access to the area being tattooed and won't rub against your fresh tattoo afterward.
Bring Snacks & Water:
For longer appointments, feel free to bring snacks, water, sports drinks, headphones, a pillow, a blanket, or anything else that will help you stay comfortable.
What to expect before We Begin:
I'll thoroughly clean the area using a medical-grade tattoo cleanser. Hair Removal: If needed, I'll shave the area using a disposable razor and shaving foam. Skin Prep: Finally, I'll disinfect the skin with alcohol or another antiseptic to remove any remaining oils before applying the stencil.