First Time Getting a Tattoo? Here's What No One Tells You!

Getting a tattoo is a significant milestone in life, filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. Whether you're getting your first tattoo right after turning eighteen or as an adult, the experience is special. It involves permanently placing a piece of art on your body, so being well-prepared and informed is crucial. We'll guide you through everything you need to know before getting your first tattoo, with insights from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Elliot Love and tattoo artist Pierre Bustos.

Choosing Your Tattoo Design

If you're sure about getting a tattoo but uncertain about the design, don't worry. According to Bustos, inspiration for tattoos can come from anywhere. A tattoo is a commitment to something you love and hold dear, whether it's music, art, sports, or any other passion. Start by researching different tattoo styles to help you narrow down the look. You can explore classic styles like Sailor Jerry or tribal, contemporary styles like dot work and watercolor, or combination styles like neo-traditional and 3D.

Once you have a general idea of what you want, it's essential to collaborate closely with a tattoo artist. What looks good on paper may not translate well to your skin, so professional input on the design is crucial. Bustos recommends using existing tattoos as references and suggests checking platforms like Pinterest for inspiration. When you meet with the artist, bring your ideas and photo references, so they can create a design that aligns with your vision.

Finding the Right Tattoo Artist

Selecting a reputable and hygienic tattoo artist is the most crucial step. Dr. Love advises checking an artist's Instagram or online portfolio to ensure their work aligns with what you have in mind. Always verify that the artist operates in a clean and safe environment. Your chosen artist should be enthusiastic about working with your design and ideas.

Tattoo artists can take your concept and transform it into the tattoo of your dreams, providing guidance on placement, design, and style. A pre-appointment consultation allows you to get to know your artist and understand their creative process, ensuring your tattoo lives up to your expectations.

Preparing for Your Tattoo Appointment

Proper preparation is key to achieving the best results during your tattoo appointment.

Here are some tips to help you get ready:

1. Avoid supplements that increase bleeding, such as ginkgo, garlic, ginseng, and vitamin E, for two weeks before your appointment.
2. Ensure you get a good night's sleep the night before your appointment to support your body's ability to heal.
3. Avoid alcohol the night before or on the day of your appointment, as it can affect clotting and pain perception.
4. Don't engage in intense physical exercise immediately before or after your appointment, and follow your artist's guidance on when it's safe to resume.
5. Eat a light, non-upsetting meal before your appointment, and consider increasing your intake of vitamin K-rich foods if the tattoo is in a highly vascularized area.
6. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your tattoo session.

What to Expect During the Tattooing Process

During your appointment, the artist will create a purple stencil of your design and place it on your skin. If necessary, they will shave the area before starting the tattooing process. Once you agree on the size and placement of your tattoo, the actual tattooing begins. Tattoos involve the sensation of vibrating needles penetrating your skin, which can be painful. Breathe through the discomfort, and if you're concerned, you can apply a numbing cream before the session. Some artists use products like Mad Rabbit's Relieve Numbing Cream for pain control.

Tattooing sessions can vary in duration, ranging from a few minutes to several hours. Discuss the timeline with your artist in advance, take breaks as needed, stay hydrated, and stand up occasionally to ensure your comfort.

Aftercare and Tattoo Healing

Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals correctly. Many artists use a "second skin" bandage to protect your tattoo. Leave this bandage on as long as recommended by your artist to expedite healing and reduce the need for touch-ups. If it leaks or your artist instructs you to do so, change the bandage.

When it's time to remove the bandage, wash your tattoo thoroughly. Bustos recommends using a gentle cleanser like Hustle Bubbles by Hustle Butter. Afterward, keep the tattoo moisturized by applying a tattoo balm like Hustle Butter Deluxe Tattoo Balm. You're likely to experience some itching during the healing process, and products like Mad Rabbit's Soothing Gel can help alleviate this discomfort. Remember to keep your tattoo protected from the sun during the healing period.

Long-Term Tattoo Care and Maintenance

Even after your tattoo has fully healed, your responsibility doesn't end. Tattoos require ongoing care to maintain their vibrancy. Use a high-quality moisturizer daily after bathing and make sunscreen your ally. UV rays from the sun can cause tattoo pigment to fade, so using sunscreen with an SPF of 30-50 and reapplying it every two hours when exposed to the sun will help preserve your tattoo's color and clarity.

Getting your first tattoo is a significant step, and it can be a smooth experience by following these tips. Choose an artist with a reputable portfolio and a clean studio, collaborate on a design you love, and ensure you're well-prepared for your appointment. Aftercare is critical, so leave the bandage on as advised, keep the tattoo clean, moisturized, and protected from the sun. Once your first tattoo heals successfully, you may find yourself considering a second, and who knows, maybe even more in the future.