Always make sure to do your research on artists before selecting one to contact. It’s usually best to choose an artist whose style or specialty will align with the tattoo design you are wanting. Take a look at their portfolio to see if you would like something similar to the style and/or capability this artist has to offer. When you have chosen an artist, make sure you are ready to explain your tattoo idea in a detailed and comprehensive way. Some information is absolutely necessary for the artist to determine pricing and availability, such as: size and placement (you can use measurements in inches, or take a photo of the placement with the size circled on the photo), as well as preference on color/black and grey shading. It is also helpful to us if you have any reference photos or even drawings you have done yourself (as simple or detailed as you like). The clearer you can make your idea, the better we can make it come to life. If you have scheduling or budget limitations, please be sure to include that information as well and we will work with you on it as best as we can. Now that you have all of the necessary information, you are ready to reach out to your tattoo artist to set up an appointment!

Make sure to be well-rested and get a good night’s sleep before your appointment. Eat a substantial and healthy meal 1-2 hours beforehand. Getting tattooed on an empty stomach can lead to dizziness, fainting, and/or nausea. Bring a water bottle to your tattoo appointment and stay hydrated before and during the process. Dehydration can potentially affect your pain and stress levels as well as make your skin more difficult to tattoo. Try to drink plenty of water and moisturize your skin (both for a week leading up to your appointment) so that both you and your skin are in optimal condition to be tattooed. Ask your artist in advance if it is okay to bring snacks and/or a friend with you to your appointment. Do not consume alcohol the day before, day of, or day after the tattoo. Alcohol thins the blood and can result in severe bleeding during and after the tattoo process. It is prohibited to be tattooed while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Please come to your appointment having showered and taken proper hygiene measures. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area you are getting tattooed. If you are unsure about what to wear, feel free to ask your artist ahead of time. Bring a hair tie if you are getting tattooed in an area where long hair may get in the way. Allow plenty of time when making your way to the studio. It is recommended to arrive roughly 15 minutes before your scheduled time so that you can complete paperwork, use the restroom, or ask any questions about the design and/or tattoo process. In the state of Texas, you must be 18 to get tattooed. A valid photo ID is required at your appointment and will be checked while completing paperwork. Ask your artist what their preferred payment method is ahead of time. When in doubt, bring cash. If you have any health conditions, ask your doctor before scheduling your tattoo appointment. Always inform your artist if there are any sunburns, cuts, scratches, active eczema/psoriasis flare-ups, or any kind of open wound on the tattoo area before you come in for your appointment. Always inform/ask your artist about any scarring you may have in the tattoo area before you book your appointment. Always ask your artist before applying any form of numbing agent on your skin.

Everyone has different tolerance levels of pain, and it also depends on the placement. Generally, tattoos do hurt a little. A series of needles is used to make micro-punctures in the skin and allow the ink to settle into the top 1-2mm (about 5 layers) of the epidermis. The first few minutes are usually the most uncomfortable, but your brain will start to release endorphins (chemical response to pain) and natural adrenaline that will make the process more tolerable after those first few minute have passed. This is why it is so important to eat a good meal, stay hydrated, and wear comfortable clothing to your appointment, so your body and mind are in the best condition to be tattooed. Before the needle touches your skin, you will have a few minutes to get situated while the stencil dries. You can bring a blanket, headphones, a book, or a friend (as long as it’s okay with your artist), to help you feel more comfortable during the process. If at any point you feel dizzy, nauseous, or in need of a break, it’s important to let your artist know right away. Your artist has been tattooed before and can empathize with how you feel, so there is absolutely nothing to be ashamed of when asking for a break. It is the top priority of the studio and artists to make sure you feel comfortable and safe through the entire process, so always make sure to communicate how you feel. Always ask your artist before applying any form of numbing agent on your skin.

Your artist will give you detailed instructions on specifically how to heal your tattoo, but here is some vital information in the meantime. It is your responsibility to properly care for your tattoo once you leave the studio. Most infections occur as a result of poor aftercare rather than poor tattoo practice, so it is imperative that you follow your artist’s instructions as closely as possible. Never hesitate to reach out to your artist if you have questions or concerns, and of course feel free to ask for a written copy of aftercare instructions to take home with you if necessary. Always inform your artist if you have any known allergies to specific products, skin care ingredients, or adhesives. This will help us take any and all steps to properly clean and bandage your tattoo as safely as possible. Shower as usual, just avoid hot water and fragrant soaps coming in direct contact with your new tattoo. Avoid direct sun exposure and avoid submerging your tattoo in water (bath, swimming, dish water) for at least 3 weeks. UV is extremely damaging to the skin and can result in severe sunburn or premature fading of your tattoo. When your tattoo has finished the peeling stage, always apply a sufficient SPF sunscreen to your tattoo when going out in the sun. Tattoo fading is inevitable over the years as the skin develops new cells, but protecting your skin from the sun will ensure you have a bright and beautiful tattoo for as long as possible. Pool, lake, ocean, and bath water contain an array of bacteria that you do not want coming in contact with your new tattoo. Fresh tattoos are essentially open wounds, and subjecting an open wound to an environment full of bacteria is an invitation for infection (Google: ‘drop of ocean water under a microscope’). Do not use artificial tanning and avoid shaving the area until your tattoo is fully healed. Avoid touching your tattoo unless it is to clean it, and always wash your hands prior to cleaning. Use lukewarm water and a mild soap (Dial is a good example). Always follow washing with a thin layer of petroleum-free healing ointment (Aquaphor or H2Ocean is a good example). Never pick, peel, or scratch your healing tattoo. Try to avoid direct skin contact with pet dander or any other unsanitary materials and surfaces. Once the peeling stage of healing is complete, you can switch from an ointment to a gentle & unscented lotion (Lubriderm is a good example). Keeping your new tattoo very clean and lightly moisturized is the most important part of the healing process. If you are concerned your tattoo has developed an infection, consult your doctor immediately and inform your tattoo artist.