The process

Are you thinking about getting a tattoo? It’s an exciting prospect, but it can also be nerve-wracking. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on how to get a tattoo. From finding the right artist and design, to understanding the process and aftercare, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting your first tattoo!

Step 1 – Choosing the Right Tattoo Salon/Tattoo Artist

Choosing the right tattoo salon and artist is one of the most important steps when it comes to getting a tattoo. Tattoo art is a form of body art, and as such, it’s important to find an experienced artist who understands the importance of creating a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and safe. It’s a good idea to conduct research on different shops and artists to get an idea of their style and skill level. Start by asking friends or family members who have tattoos for recommendations, or take a look at online reviews. Once you’ve narrowed down your search, contact the shop or artist to inquire about pricing and availability. Be sure to discuss your design ideas with them so they can give you feedback and suggest any changes to ensure the perfect tattoo.

Step 2 – Preparing for a Tattoo Appointment

Before heading to your appointment, it’s important to properly prepare for the tattoo process. Start by getting a good night’s sleep the night before. Staying hydrated is also important, so be sure to drink plenty of water. On the day of your appointment, shave and shower prior to your appointment. This will help keep your skin clean and free of any oils that could potentially interfere with the tattoo process. Additionally, you may also want to exfoliate the area to be tattooed an hour before your appointment time. This will help make sure the skin is rosy and ready for the application of a topical numbing cream like 4% LIDOCAINE. Finally, it’s also important to wear loose and comfortable clothing so you can move around easily during the process.

Step 3 – Choosing a Design

Choosing the right design for a tattoo is a personal choice and represents who you are. It should be something that you like and will be proud of for many years to come. There are many ways to find inspiration for your tattoo, such as browsing online resources, magazines, or even by looking at the designs of your favorite tattoo artist. Take your time when selecting a design, as the design may contain complex details that require more time to complete. It is also important to consider the size and placement of the tattoo when selecting the design, as this can impact how well it will look once inked. Once you have chosen a design, it is important to talk through any ideas you have with your chosen artist before getting started. With the right preparation and thought put into the design selection process, you can be sure that your tattoo will be one you will love for many years to come.

Step 4 – Preparing the Skin

Before getting a tattoo, it is important to properly prepare the skin. Start by getting a good night’s sleep and scheduling a consultation with your artist. Once you’ve completed paperwork and payment, your artist will provide aftercare instructions. To prep the skin, it is best to shave the area you will be tattooed and follow up with an exfoliation to make sure the skin is rosy. It is also important to apply a thick layer of topical 4% LIDOCAINE to reduce any pain that may be experienced during the process. Afterwards, moisturizing the area with a thin layer of ointment or a gentle, unscented lotion will keep it hydrated and help prevent infection or disease from any puncture wounds caused by the tattoo machine.

Step 5 – Get Comfortable

Once you have chosen a tattoo salon and artist, prepared for the appointment, and selected your design, it’s time to get comfortable. Comfort is key when getting a tattoo, so make sure you are mentally and physically prepared. This can include getting enough sleep the night before, eating a light meal, and wearing comfortable clothing to the appointment. It’s also important to bring a friend or family member to provide moral support if you feel anxious or nervous. If the artist has a waiting room, take some time to relax and clear your mind before getting started. This can help you feel more relaxed and confident during your tattoo session.

Step 6 – The Tattoo Machine

When you’re ready for the tattoo to begin, the artist will begin to set up the tattoo machine. The machine is a coil-type or rotory motor with a needle attached. It uses a direct electrical current to power the needles, which move rapidly up and down and vibrate slightly as they penetrate the skin. The artist will adjust the voltage and needle depth according to the type of tattoo being done, and then wrap the machine in a sterile barrier. Following these steps is essential for controlling infection during a tattoo session.

Step 7 – Inserting the Ink

Once the artist has properly prepped the skin, the needle enters the skin and the ink is inserted. This is a process that requires skill, experience, and knowledge about sterilization, hand speed, depth, and other tattooing techniques. The artist must be experienced enough to know how to insert the ink in a way that will ensure a clean and long-lasting design. The artist dips the needle in the ink, turns on the motor that moves the needle, and applies the moving needle to the skin. This process will be repeated until all of the ink is injected into the desired area. It is important for a client to trust their artist during this process as it can be easy to forget that this new tattoo is a medical procedure.

Step 8 – Aftercare Tips

Once the tattoo is completed, it is important to follow the aftercare instructions given by the tattoo artist. This includes washing the tattooed area twice a day with an antibacterial soap and warm water, and patting the area dry with a paper towel or soft cloth. It is also important to use a breathable bandage for the first week, as this will help protect the area from bacteria entering. Once the bandage has been removed, gentle lotion should be applied to keep the skin moist and supple. It is also important to drink plenty of water and resist the urge to scratch the tattoo, as it may cause irritation. During the healing process, it is normal for the tattoo to start to itch and flake, so following these aftercare tips is essential for ensuring a successful result.

Step 9 – Healing Process

Once the tattoo is complete, your tattoo artist will cover it with a bandage and provide aftercare instructions. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure that your new tattoo heals properly. The healing process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. During this time, you should avoid exposing the tattoo to direct sunlight, swimming, hot tubs, and any activities that could cause the tattoo to become irritated. To help the healing process, wash your tattoo gently with warm water and antibacterial soap. Avoid scrubbing or picking at the skin, as this can lead to infection or scarring. It’s also important to moisturize your tattoo regularly with a healing ointment or lotion. Following these steps will help your tattoo heal quickly and look its best for years to come.

Step 10 – Maintenance and Touch-Ups

Once the tattoo has gone through its healing process, it is important to follow the aftercare guidelines and keep the area clean. This will ensure that the tattoo looks its best for many years to come. Additionally, it is recommended to get a consultation for a touch-up after the initial healing process is completed. This touch-up session will help assess any weak spots in the tattoo and make sure that the design looks perfect. Touch-ups should be done about 8-10 weeks after the initial procedure and should be done by the same artist who performed the initial procedure. After this time period, touch-ups can be done if necessary, although it is best to wait 6 months before scheduling another appointment.