Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Your First Tattoo

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A guide to your first tattoo

Getting your first tattoo? Maybe you have been waiting for years to commemorate an achievement, although I don't believe it's necessary to have a "meaning" or sentiment attached to them, all that matters is you think they look cool. Whether you want to get one on the whim or have been thinking about it for quite some time; getting a tattoo is a permanent decision, one that's very hard to revert from. Even if you have the perfect design in mind, you probably still have a million thing going on in your head. How bad will it hurt? How much will it cost? Will it Interfere with future opportunities? And before making such a permanent decision you should make sure every single one of your pressing questions are answered (Well, most of them because trust me your brain will keep thinking of  'what ifs' no matter how many of them you find a solution to).

So I sat down with a professional tattoo artist and some people with multiple tattoos; What advice would they give? What did they wish they knew before? What advice would they give? And I list them below to help you make this the best possible experience:

1. Know what you want.

There are many different kinds of  tattoos to choose from based on size, design, color etc. A great place to start would be Pinterest and Instagram. Think about your tattoo for a year or so before you commit to it. Consider proper placement, draw it with a temporary marker and test it all out first. This is great way to not regret it later.  An artist can also help guide you in this process.

2. Choose the right artist.

Find an artist whose style matches what you’re looking for. Book a consultation beforehand and make sure the place is squeaky clean. Ask to see their portfolio and finished, healed work! You also have to make sure his tattooing skills are just as great as his drawings. 

Show your reference photos so they can get an idea of what you're looking for (keep in mind that they might not be able to design it exactly like your reference). 

Don't be afraid to ask questions or say, "No, I want it to look more like this". And if the artist makes you feel uncomfortable in any step of way, leave and find someplace else. You are already nervous enough about your first tattoo and you definitely shouldn't have to deal with this.

3. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.

Typical pricing is anywhere from $100-$300+ /hour depending on the skill level of the artist. And trust me this is not the place to search for a deal. Try to avoid avoid artist who don't have proper certification and a good portfolio because there are many horror stories that come from those situations. It is a lot less likely that you'll be hurting someone's business by walking out 'to find a better deal', and a lot more likely that you're just missing out on that perfect design.

4. Some tattoo etiquettes:

I feel like this goes without saying but understand that tattooing is a serious profession and it's a lot more than just drawing. The tattoo artist is charging you for the equipment, the time they spent perfecting their artistry, so be nice to them, and they'll be nice to you and you'll have a pleasant experience. 

Don't get drunk or high before your tattoo. Too much alcohol can thin your blood, which leads to excess bleeding during the tattoo session. Also tattoo artists are required by law to deny you their services if they think you’ve had a few too many. Once the tattoo artist  turns on the machine, try to stay as still as possible. If you start feeling uncomfortable, or need a break, just say so. Also if you're happy with your results then show your appreciation by leaving a tip.

5. How bad will it hurt?

It varies on your pain tolerance level as an individual. Some people say it hurts a lot, some people say its tolerable, some people say it's nothing. You need to try it out for yourself, that's the only way to know. It also depends on which part of your body you're getting tattooed. Thighs and arms tend to be less painful than ribs or torso, because the skin is thicker and there's more fat layers.

If you have a low pain tolerance or getting tattooed on a painful spot use numbing cream half an hour before you appointment. Some people (idiots) say you need to "earn" your tattoo and pain is part of that. That's complete utter bullshit as you're already paying for the service!

6. Tattoo Aftercare:

Different artists may have different ways of taking care of the tattoo, but always listen to the artist! Not your cousin or friend who has gotten a tattoo before. 

Fevers, Oozing fluid, Continued swelling, Severe itching are signs that your tattoo isn’t healing properly or has become infected. If you experience the stated signs and symptoms, see your doctor immediately. 

And most importantly don't stress yourself out too much, If you follow all the advice there is little to no chance that you'll end with a very messed up tattoo, even if that's the case know that it is fairly easy to get a tattoo covered up, especially if it's small. Worst comes to worst you can get your tattoo removed completely with laser treatment.

So, enjoy your new body art. I have a feeling you'll want a second tattoo soon enough.