Preparing for Your Tattoo

DRINK WATER

• It’s important to be hydrated prior to and during your appointment. Hydration will help you through those longer sessions as well as aiding in the healing process. 
• If you have a longer appointment scheduled, be sure to bring a water bottle with you. We do keep water bottles on hand for your convenience here at the shop. 

EAT

• Prior to your appointment, make sure to eat a meal or a hefty snack. Because your body exerts a lot of energy during the tattoo process, getting tattooed on an empty stomach can make pain management more difficult. 
• Bring a snack with you if you have a longer appointment scheduled. Try to choose a snack that is not messy and can be eaten with one hand if necessary. 

MOISTURISE

• Lotion your skin once or twice a day for one (1) week leading up to your appointment. DO NOT moisturise ON the day of your appointment because it can affect the tattoo machine. 
• By moisturising your skin at least one week prior to your appointment, this will ensure that your skin stays hydrated. 

SHAVING + WAXING

• It is not required of you to shave prior to your appointment, since the artist will do it for you. However, you can shave the area on your own if you are comfortable doing so. 
• If you shave on your own, please be careful. Any wound, no matter how small, will make it difficult for the artist to complete the tattoo safely. 
• If you experience razor burn, leave yourself a week to heal before the appointment. 
• If you prefer to wax, do it about a week in advance of your appointment to allow your skin to heal. 
• After shaving or waxing, be sure to moisturise. 

REST UP

• Try to get a good night’s rest prior to your appointment. 
• Do not partake in alcohol or drugs the night before or the night after. 

TAKE BREAKS

• If you need a break don’t hesitate to ask. We are happy to accommodate you as best as we can during your tattoo session. 

PRIOR TO THE APPOINTMENT YOU SHOULD NOT

• Show up if you are injured.
• Get a tan, a fake tan, a sunburn, or a chemical peel.
• Do strenuous exercise such as weightlifting 2-3 days beforehand or afterwards.

THE DAY OF THE APPOINTMENT

• Come alone (one (1) person is acceptable).
• Dress appropriately.
• Bring entertainment. 
• We have a television with a variety of viewing options but if you prefer to bring your own source of entertainment, you are more than welcome to.
• Don’t rush.
• Allow the artist to take their time.
• Try to avoid scheduling commitments immediately after your appointment. 
• Arrive sober
• Avoid alcohol and drugs prior to and during the tattoo session. It is also best to avoid these for at least 48 hours after the tattoo session.

DURING THE APPOINTMENT

• Don’t touch your tattoo.
• Don’t touch any of the tattoo equipment.
• Try not to move around too much.