Getting a tattoo is a big commitment – after all, it’ll likely be with you for life! Knowing what you need to do before a tattoo appointment will help you to relax and make the process as simple as possible for both yourself and your tattoo artist.

To help with this, Empty Tattoos have put together an easy to follow guide so that you know exactly how to prepare for your tattoo session.

Get a good night’s sleep

It’s super important to make sure that you attend your appointment well-rested so that you can be alert throughout the tattoo session to ensure that you are able to read the signals your body is sending you and for you to react appropriately. Your body could be more sensitive to pain if you’re not well rested, and it will make your appointment feel much longer if you can’t sit comfortably for your tattoo artist.

Stay hydrated

Keep your body hydrated prior and during the appointment to ensure that your body is in the best shape possible. Not only is water great for your health, but it will also make sure that your skin is hydrated and prepared for the tattoo session. If your skin is hydrated, then the ink will ‘take’ better to your skin – which means great results for you and a smooth process for your artist!

We encourage our clients to have a drink with them during their appointment as it will help the process and will aid in the recovery and healing process.

Eat before your appointment – and bring snacks

You are going to need energy if you are about to sit through a lengthy tattoo session, so we would recommend eating a balanced and healthy meal prior to the appointment. Having food in your system will also ensure you’ll avoid getting light-headed or passing out from exhaustion.

We would highly recommend bringing snacks to your appointments that are sugary to help keep you alert and keep your blood sugars on top form – fruit, granola bars and cookies are popular choices to help with this!

Dress comfortably

You’ll want to be as comfortable as possible during your tattoo session, so you can do this by wearing a comfortable, loose outfit. You don’t want to feel restrictive by wearing skinny jeans or a fitted dress – especially if it’s covering the area that we’re about to tattoo! Be sure to wear something loose and comfortable and that can be re-adjusted depending on the position you are sat / laying in.

It’s also worth noting what not to do before an appointment, which includes:

  • Do not show up intoxicated
  • Do not show up with damaged skin including cuts, bruises and burns

To book an appointment at Empty Tattoos, the leading Chelmsford tattoo parlour, just head to the booking page!

Book your tattoo now