Getting Tattooed
Getting a tattoo is a big commitment, and creating a tattoo involves a lot of preparation in order to get it just right. Learn what is involved below.
Tattoo Consultation
The first step to any good tattoo is the consultation. This is where we will talk about your ideas, look at references, and discuss the meaning or significance of your tattoo. This usually happens in person or via email. Some tattoos may require more than one consultation. These are free of charge, but come prepared to place a deposit in order to secure a booking.
Preparing for Your Appointment
Tattoo care begins the day before your tattoo session. Its important to hydrate well, eat well, and come in to your session well-rested. Long tattoo sessions are hard on your mind and body, and the more energy you have when you come in the better your experience will be.
The Tattoo Session
Your session will begin by discussing the design one last time. The tattoo artist will check that you like it, and check the size and placement. This is an opportunity to ask questions about the design, and discuss any changes that need to happen. Once you are happy with the design, and it has been transferred to your skin, the tattooing process can begin. You will have one last chance to check the design before tattooing begins. During your tattoo you will be sitting or lying still in one position for extended periods of time. Getting comfortable can be difficult. Let your artist know when you need breaks, or if a position is not working for you.
Tattoo Aftercare
Aftercare begins as soon as your tattoo appointment is over. If you don't know about tattoo aftercare, or haven't found a method that works, ask your artist. Your tattoo will be wrapped up at the end of your session. Leave the wrap on for a few hours before washing it with hot water and tattoo-safe soap. Once your tattoo has been allowed to fully dry, you may begin using a thin layer of aftercare cream.
The most important things to remember while the tattoo is healing are:
Skip any resistance training with that area for a few days
Staying hydrated
Keeping the area clean
Avoiding soaking the healing tattoo underwater, showering is okay
Keeping the area out of the sun, no sunscreen until it is healed
Not picking or scratching the tattoo (even when its itchy)
Tattoos can look quite gross when they are healing, and get very itchy, but if you are worried about something such as spreading redness don't hesitate to contact your artist. Expect a tattoo to take 2 to 3 weeks to heal, and a couple of months to settle in to the skin. Using sunscreen on your tattoo when out in the sun for long periods is the best way to keep your tattoo looking its best.
