Useful tips before your first tattoo – A guide to an unforgettable experience
Have you ever thought about expressing yourself with a tattoo? I'm sure you're as nervous as many others. Getting your first tattoo is an exciting and memorable moment in your life, but it's important that you prepare for it properly. We've got some useful tips for you to consider before getting your first tattoo.
Choose the right tattoo artist
Getting a tattoo is a life-changing decision, so it’s essential that you choose a reliable and experienced tattoo artist with references that you can trust yourself. The tattoo industry is huge, and there can be huge differences between a “tattoo artist” and a tattoo artist. A good tattoo artist will not just sew an image on you, but will help you realise your vision, give you personalised advice and make sure that the end result is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also timeless.
What to look for when choosing?
- Style and reference – Check out the artist’s portfolio! If you like his lines, shading techniques and overall work, you’re more likely to be happy with your own tattoo.
- Hygiene and Professional Background – A clean, sterile environment is an essential requirement. A professional tattoo parlour always works with sterile equipment and quality inks.
- Communication – A good tattoo artist listens to your ideas, gives you advice and doesn’t try to force something on you that doesn’t suit you.
Here at Creation Tattoo Shop, our salon since 1995, our professional team awaits you with not only artistic creativity, but also high standards of hygiene and care. If you have any questions, if you’re unsure about your first tattoo, feel free to contact us – we’ll help you find the ideal design and put all your doubts to rest!
Prepare yourself physically and mentally
Tattooing isn’t just a simple procedure – your body and mind will handle the process better if you’re properly prepared. The pain you feel and the healing process can be greatly affected by the state you arrive at the salon in.
How to get ready?
Get enough sleep! – A tired body is more sensitive to pain, so it’s important to arrive well rested.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine. – Avoid alcohol for at least 24-48 hours before your tattoo as it dilutes the blood, which can affect ink absorption and prolong healing time. And caffeine can increase nervousness and sensitivity.
Hydrate properly! – Skin in good condition absorbs dye more easily and recovers faster, so make sure you drink enough water in the days before.
Eat properly! – Arriving on an empty stomach is a bad idea! A light but nutritious meal will help to keep your body stable during the process and avoid feeling sick.
Be mentally prepared too! – Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but it’s natural to have some excitement or fear. If you are nervous, try to take a deep breath, think about your decision and remind yourself that you are in professional hands!
Hint: If you’re worried about pain, talk to your tattoo artist in advance about which part of your body they plan to tattoo. Some areas may be more sensitive, while others may be less painful.
Choose the sample well and where you want it
A tattoo is a life-long decision, so it’s worth taking the time to find the perfect design and placement for you. A well-chosen tattoo can not only be aesthetically pleasing, it can also have personal meaning – so it’s important not to make a spur-of-the-moment decision!
What to look out for?
What does the pattern mean to you? – A trendy tattoo might seem like a good idea now, but think about whether you’ll like it in the long run. It’s best to choose a design that really reflects your personality, an important event in your life, your values or something that means something to you.
Where should it be placed? – Think about how much you want others to see your tattoo. If you need a more discreet solution because of your job or lifestyle, choose a place that can be easily covered with clothing. If you want to wear it proudly, feel free to do it in more visible places!
How painful will it be? – Every body part reacts differently to tattooing. The ribs, elbows, ankles or around the spine may be more sensitive, while the thighs, upper arms or shoulders may be less painful. If you’re unsure, feel free to ask us – we’ll help you find the ideal spot!
How big should it be? – A small, discreet tattoo can be a perfect start, but if you want a larger and more detailed design, it’s worth considering to ensure it will suit you in the long term.
If you don’t have a specific idea, don’t worry! Our professional tattoo artists can help you draw inspiration and find the one that suits you perfectly.
How does it feel? Will it hurt much?
In short: yes, you will feel it – but everyone’s pain is different! During the tattooing process, the needle inserts the ink into your skin with tiny punctures, so you may experience it as a stinging, scratching or burning sensation. But the good news is that the pain is completely bearable, and most people say it was less bad than they expected.
What affects the level of pain?
Part of the body – You may feel more pain in the more sensitive areas, such as the ribs, elbows, knees or wrists, while the thighs, upper arms or calves may feel much less.
Size and detail of the tattoo – A small symbol will be done quickly, but a large, shaded or detailed design may take longer to complete, so more patience is required.
Your pain tolerance – Everyone is different, some people hardly feel it at all, while others are more sensitive. If you’re not sure if you can handle it, start with a smaller sample to experience what it feels like.
Your body condition – If you are tired, stressed or hungover you may be more sensitive to pain. That’s why it’s important to arrive rested and hydrated for your tattoo!
If you’re worried that you’re going to be in a lot of pain, try to relax, breathe deeply and don’t cramp up to the pain. Many of our guests say that the initial stinging sensation is something you get used to quickly!
At Creation Tattoo Shop, our experienced artists will listen to you and help you make your first tattoo experience as comfortable as possible! Book an appointment and get started!
Ensure proper aftercare
A freshly made tattoo is considered an open wound, so it is crucial that you take proper care of it to ensure it heals quickly and beautifully. Improper care can fade the colours and even lead to infections!
How to take care of your tattoo?
- The first few hours – Our tattoo artist will protect your fresh tattoo with foil, which should usually be removed after 3-6 hours unless otherwise advised.
- Gentle cleaning – Wash with lukewarm water and unscented, antibacterial soap, then soak up the moisture with a clean paper towel (don’t rub!).
- Moisturise – Apply a thin layer of our salon recommended aftercare cream to prevent drying and promote regeneration.
- Avoid contact with water – Do not soak your tattoo for at least 2 weeks (no baths, swimming pools, saunas!) and always protect it from dirt.
- Keep it out of the sun! – Sunlight can fade colours, so always cover your fresh tattoo and use at least SPF 50 sunscreen on it afterwards.
- Don’t scratch, don’t poke – As it heals, the tattoo will peel and may itch, but don’t scrape the scarring off as you could damage the design.
What to avoid?
Do not exercise or sweat excessively in the first few days, as sweat can irritate the wound.
Do not wear tight or synthetic clothing over the tattoo to let your skin breathe.
Don’t drink alcohol or smoke excessively as these can slow down recovery.
If you have any questions or are unsure about your aftercare, feel free to email us or stop by Creation Tattoo Shop! Our goal is to keep your tattoo as sharp and beautiful as possible for as long as possible!
Make an appointment today!
Ready to get the tattoo of your dreams? Don’t delay any longer! The professional artists at Creation Tattoo Shop are ready to create a unique and perfect tattoo for you.
Why choose us?
Experienced and creative tattoo artists – we have been creating unique ideas since 1995.
Hygienic, safe environment – We follow the highest sterilisation standards.
Custom design – We’ll help you find the design that best suits you.
Friendly atmosphere and professional advice – All your questions answered!
Don’t wait any longer! Book an appointment online or visit our salon in person and let’s talk about your tattoo!
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Remember, getting your first tattoo is a special experience. With the right preparation and the support of our professional team, you can be sure that the experience will be positive and memorable.