WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GET
A TATTOO
by Amrutha Pagad
So you decided to get a tattoo. Before the needle touches you, here's what you need to know.
Choose the design
Choose a design or phrase that you won't regret 10 years down the line. What may look or sound cool today, may not mean the same to you later.
Choose the artist/parlour
Choose a tattoo artist or parlour that you trust, is licensed, follows hygiene (VERY IMPORTANT) and can give you the best advice.
What to avoid
24-48 hours before you get inked, avoid alcohol, caffeine, and any other type of product/medication that can thin your blood and make tattoo experience more painful.
Tattoo spot
Choose the spo whetre you want the tattoo. There are some places that hurt more than others. Usually, the fleshier the area, the less it hurts.
Ask the tattoo artist about how they ensure hygiene, what they use, etc. Check if the place is clean or not.
Hygiene
Check for allergies
Check the brand of ink and if you are allergic to it. If allergic to latex, ask them to use latex-free gloves.
Dress comfortably
Dress comfortably so that the tattoo area is easily accessible. Wear clean clothes to prevent any inection.
Check your pain tolerance
Know that it HURTS no matter what. If you are a first timer, get a small design
to gauge your pain tolerance.
Support person
Take a support person along. It is good to have another person with you as you go through the pain.
Plan your time
Know that some designs will take hours to finish. Once you
are done, you might feel tired. Rest well.
After getting a tattoo
The artist will advice you how to take care of the freshly tattooed
area at the end. Follow it to the T.
Medical help
Seek immediate medical help if your tattoo is
not healing properly, there’s burning, pus or odour.