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So you’ve filled a folder on Instagram with bookmarks oftattoo inspirationand determined you’refinallyready to get your first tattoo.
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Not sure what happens next?
We’ve got you.
@blaabad, and Doreen Garner, a.k.a.
An example of Ariel Wei’s healed work
@flesh_and_fluid, to share their insight on every step of the process.
They’ll also break down what to dowhile youre getting tattooedand after your new ink is done.
(She posts examples in the highlights on her Instagram.)
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Others may ask you to send them an email.
Attaching reference images will be incredibly helpful for your artist to understand your vision.
Just check that you’re not expecting your final design to look exactly like the work of another artist.
Doreen Garner at work
Don’t worry about being exact.
The size as well as the placement can be an estimate.
“[Both] can be changed later on,” adds New York City-based tattoo artistHannah Kang.
One of Tee Fergus’s pieces covered in SecondSkin
“I’d be like, ‘Okay, cool.
Let’s see what works.'”
Some artists offer color tests.
The artist’s form or email is a good place to request one.
(you could also bring snacks to have while getting tattooed.)
If you’re having a flare-up, you may have to delay your appointment.
However, see to it your feedback is respectful.
“Remember, you contacted this artist because you trust their vision,” Abad says.
Also, keep in mind that not all tattoos can beas tinyas you want them to be.
Some lettering may need to be enlarged so they can be legible over time.
“The size of the tattoo isn’t going todecrease the pain.
I think that’s a mistake people often make in the beginning.”
Again, the placement can definitely be changed just let your artist know.
“Skin is not like paper,” Wei explains.
Does it hurt to get a tattoo?
The first moments of getting your tattoo will probably hurt, regardless of your pain tolerance.
Don’t worry that feeling won’t be as intense the whole time.
“Just keep this in mind to help you get through the pain of a tattoo.”
Once the tattooist turns on their machine and gets going, venture to stay as still as possible.
If you start feeling lightheaded, uncomfortable, or need a break to stretch, just say so.
The artist will probably do the same.
“The tattoo process is pretty intimidating in itself,” Garner says.
If you want, you might always watch something on your phone or listen to music, she adds.
Every artist has a different rate, which can depend on the shop’s minimum or their hourly rate.
As for tipping, thereisa standard: around 20 to 30%.
Tattoos are permanent art and should be considered an investment, Wei says.
(Many studios only take cash.)
Haggling is typically not a welcome practice.
However, some artists do offer a sliding scale for clients who can’t afford their standard rates.
When it comes time to remove the bandage, be sure to peel it off slowly with clean hands.
Wash the tattoo with mild, antibacterial soap, likeDr.
Bronner’s Baby Unscented Pure Castile Soap, and lukewarm water.
Garner also is a fan of unscented shea butter.
(Allureeditorsswear byEu’Genia’s.)
“I just feel like it’s been working better for me for healing,” she says.
Because shea butter is kind of oily, the tattoo still looks moisturized even when it’s peeling.
Don’t expose your tattoo to the sun either.
From there, keep open communication with your artist if any issues arise.
Otherwise, enjoy your new tattoo.
We have a feeling you’ll want a second one soon enough.
And when that time comes, you’ll be a seasoned veteran.
Read more about tattoos:
Now, watch someone get their first tattoo:
