Prepare for your new tattoo

How to Prepare for Your Tattoo Appointment: A Complete Pre-Care Guide

Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience, and proper preparation can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Whether this is your first tattoo or your tenth, following these pre-care tips will help ensure a comfortable session and the best possible results.

1. Eat a Good Meal Before Your Appointment

Tattoo sessions can be long and physically demanding, so make sure you eat a full, balanced meal beforehand. Low blood sugar can make you feel lightheaded or dizzy during the session, and no one wants to pass out in the chair! A protein-packed meal with healthy fats and complex carbs will help keep your energy up.

2. Stay Hydrated (But Avoid Alcohol)

Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your appointment. Being well-hydrated helps your skin handle the tattooing process better and can improve healing. However, avoid alcohol the night before—alcohol thins the blood, which can cause excessive bleeding during your tattoo and affect how well the ink settles.

3. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Choose clothes that are both comfortable and practical for the area you’re getting tattooed. If you're getting a leg tattoo, wear shorts or loose-fitting pants. For arm tattoos, a tank top or loose sleeves work best. Keep in mind that ink and stencil marks may get on your clothing, so don’t wear anything you’d be heartbroken to ruin.

4. Bring Snacks & Drinks

Long sessions can be tiring, and having a snack can help keep your energy up. Feel free to bring easy-to-eat snacks like protein bars, fruit, or nuts, as well as a drink to stay hydrated. Just avoid anything too messy or greasy.

5. Get Plenty of Rest

A well-rested body handles pain and stress much better than a tired one. Try to get a good night's sleep before your appointment so you're feeling your best.

6. No Kids Allowed

As much as we love little ones, tattoo studios are not a place for children. Please arrange childcare ahead of time, as kids cannot be in the studio during your session.

7. You Can Bring a Friend—But Keep This in Mind

You’re welcome to bring one friend for moral support, but keep in mind that tattoos take time. Watching someone get tattooed can be a long, boring process, so make sure your friend is prepared for that. If they get restless easily, they may want to bring a book, headphones, or something to keep themselves entertained.

8. Final Check Before You Arrive

✔ Eat a meal before your appointment
✔ Drink plenty of water (but no alcohol the night before)
✔ Wear comfortable, ink-friendly clothing
✔ Bring a snack and drink
✔ Get a good night’s rest
✔ No kids—only one friend allowed

Following these steps will help make your tattoo experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. I can’t wait to create something amazing for you! See you at your appointment!