Here are a few things you need to know ahead of getting your new tattoo.

Whether you’re researching what you need to know before getting your first tattoo or preparing to get your fifteenth, the wait leading up to your tattoo appointment can be both nerve-wracking and exciting. While there’s definitely a lot to do before you even schedule your tattoo session, there’s also a few things you should keep in mind the day before—and the day of—getting your tattoo. As you prepare to come into the studio, here are five things to remember:

Get a good sleep the night before.

Getting a tattoo can cause some anxiety in even those who have a fair share of tattoos, and that anxiety is only heightened when you’re feeling tired after a bad night’s sleep. Try your best to get to bed at a reasonable time the night before your tattoo appointment, and get your recommended eight hours of sleep. Being well-rested will even keep you from feeling jittery the next day, making your tattoo artist’s job a lot easier!

Eat something before you head out.

While nerves—or just not feeling hungry—may tempt you to skip breakfast or a snack before getting your tattoo, it’s important to resist that urge. Getting a tattoo can cause a burst in your body’s adrenaline which has been known to cause lightheadedness and can even cause you to pass out if you don’t have food in your stomach. To ensure this doesn’t happen, give your body some fuel ahead of time!

Drink plenty of water.

Drinking water before, during, and after your tattoo appointment will not only help you stay hydrated and focused but will also help your skin heal after you get your tattoo. Be sure to drink water in addition to any other beverages, and try not to load up on caffeinated drinks ahead of your appointment which can cause you to get jittery just like lack of sleep can.  

Keep your skin moisturized.

You shouldn’t lather on a tub of lotion right before your appointment, but it does help tattoo ink apply to your skin better if you moisturize regularly in the days leading up to your tattoo session. Keeping your skin hydrated and healthy will ensure a better tattooing experience and final image on your skin.

Wear comfortable clothes.

It may go without saying, but this is something people can often forget. You’re going to be sitting for a good chunk of time while you’re getting your tattoo done and you’ll want to be comfortable. Don’t wear clothes that feel constrictive or are uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time, and keep in mind that your clothes need to allow easy access to the area you’ll be getting your tattoo.

Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but can also come with some anxiety, especially if you’ve never been tattooed before. In the days leading up to your appointment, and the day of, keeping these things in mind will help your appointment go as smoothly as possible so you can get to proudly wearing your new body art.

Are you in the Denver Metro Area and interested in getting a new tattoo? Schedule a free consultation at Certified Tattoo Studios to get started. We’re here to help get you on your way to sporting artwork that you love—anyone with skin is welcome here.