If you’re thinking about getting your first tattoo, the process can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. You want to make sure that you choose the right design, find a reputable artist, and take proper care of your new ink. I recently had my first tattoo. I’ll take you through everything you need to know from choosing the right design to aftercare tips for your new tattoo.
Getting a tattoo is a big decision that requires some careful thought and consideration. It is totally personal; design, place, and reason everything is based on individual taste and mindset. It is a permanent mark on our body so the decision must be made calmly and firmly. You’ll need to choose a design that you’ll be happy with for the rest of your life and find a reputable artist who can bring your vision to life. It’s also important to take good care of your new tattoo to ensure that it heals properly and looks great for years to come.
People have very different opinions on tattoos, mostly negative opinions. But again as I told it is totally personal preference. I took a long time to decide, also I did try temporary tattoos a couple of times before getting the permanent one. To get the feel of it.
I was also not sure whether I should get it or not. I read many articles about health issues, side effects, long-term impacts, etc. But there are no proven bad impacts from tattoos. Yes, there are cases where it had effects on people, but it is for different reasons. Unhygienic practices, not sterilizing equipment, or maybe contaminated ink. There is still research by the FDA and many other health institutes on the long-term effects of tattoos. As per Harris Poll, about 30% of people have at least one tattoo. (Read more here: Think Before You Ink: Are Tattoos Safe?)
Choose the right design
Choosing the right tattoo design is a personal decision that should be based on your individual tastes and preferences. Some people choose designs that have personal meaning or represent an important event or milestone in their lives. Others choose designs simply because they like the way they look.
It’s important to take your time when choosing a design and consider factors such as size, placement, and color. You’ll also want to think about how the design will look in the future as your skin ages and changes.
Finding a Tattoo artist
Finding the right tattoo artist is crucial to ensuring that you get the best possible tattoo. You’ll want to look for an artist who has experience in the style of tattoo that you want and has a portfolio of work that you love. It’s also important to choose an artist who is licensed and follows proper safety and sanitation procedures.
You can find tattoo artists by asking for recommendations from friends or by searching online for reviews and portfolios. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and make sure that you feel comfortable with the artist before getting tattooed.
After looking at a few local Tattoo Artists, I found Tattoo Saga which had good reviews and reputable artists. I looked at their online designs and thought Megan Causemaker (profile) would be the perfect artist for my design. She has worked on different sizes of tattoos. But her work on small tattoos and those minute details made me decide to go with her. She is an amazing artist. Once I decided I contacted her and discussed my design and process of getting a tattoo. Safety measures, pain, pre, and post-care. She was responsive and helpful, provided the details I need, and prepared me for my first tattoo.
I am going to dive into tattoo artists’ experiences with one on one interviews in future posts. Stay tuned and subscribe for updates.
What to do before getting inked: tips and preparation
Before getting tattooed, there are a few things you can do to prepare. First, make sure that you are well-rested and have eaten a good meal. This will help to keep your blood sugar levels stable and prevent fainting or dizziness during the tattooing process. Drink plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated.
You should also avoid alcohol and drugs before getting tattooed as they can thin your blood and make the process more difficult. It’s also important to avoid sunburn or tanning before getting tattooed as this can damage your skin and make the healing process more difficult.
What to expect when getting a tattoo
This is your first tattoo, so the process can be intimidating. First, getting a tattoo involves piercing the skin with a needle to deposit ink into the dermis layer. This process can be painful, depending on the place you are getting the tattoo pain will vary.
During the tattooing process, you may experience some pain or discomfort. Most people describe the feeling as a burning or scratching sensation. Your artist may take breaks during the process to give you a chance to rest and stretch.
Before getting tattooed, the artist will clean the area and apply a stencil of the design. They will then use a tattoo machine to create the tattoo, which can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours depending on the size and complexity of the design.
It’s important to communicate with your artist during the process and let them know if you need a break or if the pain becomes too much to handle. Remember that the tattooing process can take time, so be patient and take breaks as needed.
Aftercare tips
Taking care of your new tattoo is crucial to ensuring that it heals properly and looks great for years to come. Your artist will give you specific instructions for aftercare, but some general tips include keeping the tattoo clean and dry, avoiding direct sunlight, and avoiding swimming or soaking in water for at least two weeks.
You may also need to apply coconut oil or cream to the tattoo to keep it moisturized and prevent scabbing. It’s important to follow your artist’s instructions carefully and avoid picking at or scratching the tattoo as it heals.
Common mistakes to avoid when getting your first tattoo
When getting your first tattoo, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. These include choosing a design that you may regret in the future, going to an unlicensed or inexperienced artist, and neglecting proper aftercare.
It’s also important to avoid drinking alcohol or taking drugs before getting tattooed as this can impair your judgment and make the process more difficult. Remember that getting a tattoo is a big decision and should be approached with care and consideration.
Conclusion and final thoughts
Getting your first tattoo can be a fun and exciting experience, but it’s important to approach it with care and consideration. By choosing the right design, finding a reputable artist, and taking proper care of your new ink, you can ensure that you get a tattoo that you’ll love for years to come.
Remember to communicate with your artist during the tattooing process and follow proper aftercare instructions to ensure that your tattoo heals properly. If you have any questions or concerns about getting a tattoo, don’t hesitate to reach out to a licensed tattoo artist for advice.
Thank you for reading my blog post, please provide your feedback and thoughts in the comments sections. What was your first tattoo? Any other tips for newbies?