Tattoo tips for first timers: pain, healing & artist advice
If you're anything like me, you'll have a passion for tattoos but are also slightly terrified of the unknown. If you're a first-timer worrying about everything from pain to getting an awful design, look no further than this article, where I'll give you eight tips on how to make your experience a good one.
1. Make sure you do your research and don't jump into anything.
There are so many different types of tattoos and artists to go along with them. From pure black ink dot work to bright and colourful traditional ink, there is now a massive amount of variety of styles to choose from, so make sure you spend some time to find your ideal look.
2. Stop worrying about the pain if that’s the one thing stopping you from getting inked. Yes, it hurts – that’s just a fact, but it really isn't something that should put you off for too long. Personally, I was so concerned about the pain that I put off getting my first tattoo for years, despite wanting once since the age of 12. I can say that it’s bearable and very much worth it, so don’t let the panic of how much it’ll hurt put you off of getting one.
3. Make sure you really love the design, and don’t settle for less. Tattoo artists aren’t big, scary people and will always be happy to make changes if possible. If you aren’t happy about certain details, then speak up and suggest changes. After all, you are paying them! Keep the design nice and clean by asking your tattoo artist about the healing process as well as how to keep them from getting infected.
4. Artists won’t typically offer numbing spray, so don’t expect it. Yes, it's true, numbing spray just isn't offered. Numbing spray is usually reserved for the more painful places, such as the sternum, but there’s no harm is asking if the pain gets too much. The tattoo artist wants you to be comfortable too, so don’t be afraid to make requests for breaks, either.
5. Bring someone with you for support, but don’t bring the whole family. Tattoo studios don’t have room for a lot of people, nor do the staff want a crowd of people taking up space. Bringing a friend to calm your nerves is fine and largely expected, but bringing a group is a big no-no.
6. Make sure you eat and drink something beforehand. I know how it feels to be too nervous to eat, but trust me when I say that forcing down a sandwich is better than passing out mid-tattoo. Bring along your favourite sugary drink and snack to keep yourself perky, or else you may find yourself waking up to your artist wondering if you can even continue.
7. Never, ever go with a tattoo artist because they are the cheapest option. It’s so very tempting to spend less, but go with an artist because you genuinely love their pieces rather than how cheap they are. Whilst budget always needs to be considered, always save for a tattoo rather than going with whoever will offer you the lowest price if the work isn’t up to standard.
8. Lastly, enjoy the experience! Okay, so after talking about fainting and how much it hurts, you may think it's impossible to enjoy getting a tattoo, but ask anyone - it really is an addictive feeling. This will be a permanent part of your life, and the experience can actually be a lot of fun if you pick an artist you trust.