Unfortunately, many people don’t give the same level of care to preparing their skin before an appointment, and this can have a significant impact on the final result of the tattoo. Healthy, well-prepared skin allows the ink to apply more smoothly, heal more evenly, and retain its vibrancy over time. Proper hydration, consistent moisturizing, and avoiding irritation or damage to the skin in the days leading up to your appointment are essential steps in ensuring your skin is in optimal condition to be tattooed.
While the tattoo application itself is a crucial part of the process, it’s only one piece of the overall outcome. A thoughtful balance of both pre-care and post-care plays a major role in how your tattoo looks, heals, and ages. Taking the time to properly prepare your skin beforehand—and continuing to care for it afterward—helps protect your investment and ensures the best possible results.
Alcohol can thin your blood and being hungover for your tattoo appointment is no fun for you, or your artist. Getting a good nights sleep before your tattoo ...
Use caution for at least 1 month prior to your tattoo appointment. Be sure to also avoid direct sun, tanning, chemical peels, or any other procedures that ca...
Taking time to eat a healthy meal before your tattoo appointment will benefit both your session, and final tattoo. Eating before your tattoo appointment help...
Bringing some form of entertainment or a distraction tool is a great idea to prepare for your tattoo session. You could bring your smartphone, a pair of head...
Please keep clothing choices in mind to accommodate for the location of your tattoo. Your attire will also help with your comfort levels through the duration...
Advil and Tylenol are okay for pain management during the tattoo session.
If you have any further questions or concerns while preparing for your tattoo appointment, reach out to your artist directly. They will be able to give you specific recommendations of pre-care for your upcoming tattoo appointment.
Your tattoo doesn’t stop being important once the session ends—aftercare is where the healing truly begins. The way you care for your tattoo during the days and weeks following your appointment plays a major role in how well it heals, how comfortable the process is, and how your tattoo ultimately looks once it’s fully settled. Proper aftercare helps your skin heal smoothly, reduces the risk of irritation or infection, and preserves the clarity, detail, and vibrancy of your tattoo.
These aftercare steps are designed to guide you through the healing process and support your skin as it recovers. By following them carefully and consistently, you’re protecting both your skin and your investment, ensuring your tattoo heals evenly and continues to look fresh and beautiful for years to come.
Wash your tattoo gently with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water. Pat it dry with a clean towel - do not rub.
Apply a thin layer of unscented, alcohol-free moisturizer or tattoo-specific ointment to keep your tattoo hydrated and promote healing.
Protect your tattoo from sun exposure, as UV rays can fade the colors and damage the skin. Use sunscreen once it's fully healed.
It's normal for your tattoo to scab and itch during the healing process, but avoid picking or scratching it to prevent scarring and color loss.
Stay out of pools, hot tubs, and the ocean until your tattoo is fully healed to prevent infection from bacteria in the water.
Your tattoo artist may provide specific aftercare instructions based on their techniques and style, so be sure to follow their guidance for the best results.
Remember, proper aftercare is essential for the longevity and vibrancy of your tattoo. If you have any concerns or notice signs of infection, consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional promptly.