Preparation for Your Tattoo Appointment

 

WHAT TO BRING​​​ TO APPOINTMENT

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• MOST IMPORTANT: EAT a proper meal BEFORE your appointment!!!

• A granola bar is not a meal.

• Coffee is great, but not a meal.

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Comfort Items:

• Snacks and Drinks: A tattoo session can be lengthy, so bring along some light snacks and drinks to maintain your energy levels. Avoid salty foods and too much caffeine, as these can affect your blood sugar and make you feel anxious, and nauseous.

• Entertainment: Consider bringing a book, magazine, or headphones to listen to music or a podcast during the process. This can help distract you and make the time pass more quickly.

• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing that exposes the area to be tattooed. Loose-fitting clothing can help prevent irritation and allow the area to breathe.

• Blanket or Sweater: The tattooing process can sometimes be chilly, so having a blanket or sweater can be helpful.

 

By bringing these comfort items, you can help make your tattoo experience more enjoyable and less stressful.

 

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PREPARING YOUR SKIN FOR A TATTOO

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Proper skin preparation can contribute to a smoother tattoo experience and better healing. By following these guidelines, you can help your skin prepare for the tattooing process and promote optimal healing.

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Here are some tips to follow a few days (preferably 7 days at least) before your appointment:

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1. Exfoliate Gently: Exfoliate your skin gently to remove dead skin cells and promote healing. Avoid harsh scrubs or abrasive materials. (Enhances product absorption: When you remove dead skin cells, your skin can better absorb).

   • Choose the right product: Look for gentle exfoliates that contain natural ingredients like sugar, salt, or fruit enzymes. Avoid harsh scrubs with micro beads or sharp particles.

2. Moisturize Regularly: Keep your skin hydrated by applying a gentle moisturizer daily. This helps maintain healthy skin and prevents dryness.

   • When to Moisturize:

     • After showering or bathing: Apply moisturizer to damp skin to lock in moisture. Once again… apply moisturizer to damp skin!

     • Apply moisturizer after cleansing your face in the morning.

     • Use a thicker moisturizer at night to nourish your skin while you sleep.

     • Consistent moisturizing is key to maintaining healthy, radiant skin. By incorporating a good moisturizer into your daily routine, you can help to improve your skin's appearance and overall health.

   • Tips for Choosing the Right Moisturizer:

     • Consider your skin type: Choose a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for your skin type (e.g., oily, dry, combination).

     • Look for hydrating ingredients: Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are excellent for hydrating the skin.

     • Avoid harsh ingredients: Steer clear of products that contain alcohol, fragrances, or other harsh chemicals.

3. Avoid Sun Exposure: Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure to prevent sunburn and irritation. Sunscreen, if you are going to be in the sun. Yes! Even in Alaska. Especially out fishing, hunting, hiking, vacationing, or just enjoying it while it’s out. I cannot tattoo over a sunburn.

4. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: These substances can affect blood clotting and healing. No alcohol 24hrs before your tattoo appointment. Yes, I can tell.

5. Eat Nutritious Foods: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins to support your body's healing process. You are what you eat, the better you eat, the better you heal! Simple!

6. Get Enough Rest: Ensure you're getting enough sleep to help your body recover. Not just for your tattoo, but also for your wellbeing in general.

7. Avoid Medications: If possible, avoid medications that can thin your blood or interfere with healing. Aspirin, NSAIDs (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve) can increase the risk of bleeding. If you can’t and are on medication, please consult your tattoo artist. (me)

8. H20: Drink plenty of water. Hydration is key! General guidelines suggest 8 glasses per day depending on climate, general activity level, and overall health. Signs of dehydration: Thirst, dry mouth, headache, fatigue, dizziness, dark urine.