Your first tattoo is a milestone in your journey towards to truest self. It sounds cheesy, but ask anyone with thoughtful ink and they'll tell you that their tattoo completes them in some small way.
After some research on the design you want, the style, and the artist who is perfect for bringing the piece to life, you're ready to go under the needle. But before you sit down, be even more prepared by expecting the following.
Good tattoos aren't cheap and cheap tattoos aren't good.
Look, you're going to have this thing on your body for the rest of your life. You're investing in your own skin's appearance. Skimping isn't an option because if you do, we guarantee you won't be satisfied. You aren't just paying for an artist's time; you're paying for their supplies, for their creative vision, and their unique skills.
Prepare for pain.
Of course you know your tattoo isn't going to tickle, but the level of pain will be dependent on the location of the tattoo and your tolerance levels. Before you settle on a location, check out the chart above.
Tattoos take time.
This isn't a "wham, bam, thank you ma'am" kind of service. Depending on size and location, the time can vary. Detailed tattoos can eve require several sessions, even if the tattoo is small in scale. The artist should be able to give a time estimation during the design process.
Expect some swelling and/or bruising
If the area around the tattoo looks like it is bruising or swelling and stays that way for a few days past your session, it's completely normal. If it is painfully itchy or swollen for an extended period of time, consult your doctor.
Aftercare is essential
If you want your tattoo to look as fresh as it did the day you got it, you NEED to take care of it. Every artist has their own aftercare instructions, and you should follow them exactly. Generally, it involves moisturizing the area every two hours with a cocoa butter product.
Stay out of the sun.
You aren't banned from beaches for life, but you definitely want to avoid the sun and long periods of time in water during the entire scabbing/flaking process. After that, always apply an SPF of 30 or higher on your tattoos, as the sun (no matter where you are) will cause them to fade faster over time. Do NOT put sunscreen on a fresh tattoo.
You're going to need a touch up, eventually.
Time is a cruel mistress to all… even your tattoos. All skin takes on ink differently, and depending on our sun exposure and the sheer amount of time that has passed since you first got it, you're going to need a touch up.
Yes, you should tip.
Your artist spent a good amount of time crafting the design for your piece. If you tip your hair stylist or you manicurist, you logically should tip your tattoo artist. Usually 15 to 20% is acceptable.
You're going to get addicted.
Ask anyone who has gotten a tattoo — despite the pain, discomfort, and expense, they always want more.
