Getting your first tattoo can be both scary an exciting. Excited to get that new ink,but afraid it's going to hurt. But don't worry! Here's some things to know when going to get your first tattoo.
When getting a tattoo, I would ask around to your friends or search around online for places in your area that do good work and are nice, clean places to go. When getting a tattoo, they should always be opening up fresh needles and ink, the place should seem clean and you should be comfortable. Don't be afraid to leave if you get a sketchy feeling. This is a permanent piece to your body, and you should feel comfortable wherever you get it done.
Once you pick a place, about a week before, you should schedule your appointment with your selected tattoo shop. If you are getting something big and/or detailed, they might want you to come in for a consultation so they can sketch up a few things and see exactly what you'd like done. Otherwise, once you have your appointment you are good to go to the day of.
When the day finally arrives make sure to drink lots of water. Staying hydrated in important. Don't try to take pain killers before you go in thinking it'll ease the pain; they thin out your blood and can make it harder for the tattoo artist. Make sure to eat a decent meal before you go in. If you are getting a big/detailed tattoo I would suggest bringing a snack and/or something to keep you occupied as you'll be sitting there for quite a while! Once it's finished, make sure to keep it wrapped up for a couple hours before cleaning it with soap and warm water. You should wear loose fitting clothes the day of and days following if the tattoo isn't somewhere it can breathe.
The first few days after should consist of cleaning it out and covering it with A&D ointment or something of the sort the help it heal properly. The soap you use should be fragrance free as to not irritate it. Me and friends have used the Dove sensitive skin soap, but I'm sure there are many other fragrance free options. About three days after you've been inked, you should switch over to putting lotion instead of ointment. I used the Eucerin original healing lotion because, again, it is fragrance free but I'm sure there are plenty of options.
Happy tattooing everyone! The pain depends on the place of your body, but in't as bad as I thought it would be. Always remember to be safe and comfortable wherever you are; they are there for you and you are not there for them. Be sure to take care of your tattoo to insure no infections or wearing on your tattoo. Good luck!
