How To Prepare For Your Tattoo Appointment

So, you have found the right artist, design, and studio ... now all you need to do is get that tattoo you've been dreaming of! The tattoo and outcome is as much down to the client as it is the artist, so here is a blog to help you have the best possible time getting your tattoo and how to be a great client.

1. Have a good night sleep!

Sadly, no partying the night before your tattoo session! Whether a big or small design, getting a good night's sleep is essential. The last thing you want is to come in and be completely exhausted for your tattoo session. It can be a tiring process so head in well rested and your body will thank you for it! This also means no drinking alcohol the night before, or the same day as your appointment. This is not only because alcohol thins the blood and can affect the tattoo outcome but being hungover whilst getting tattooed is no fun! Showing up intoxicated to reputable studios means you will be refused any tattooing services.

2. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

We always suggest to eat before your appointment and stay hydrated to keep your energy and blood sugar up. Additionally, feel free to pack snacks to have during the tattoo session if you need a boost. Just ask and your artist will be happy to give you any breaks you need. Some examples are: Lukozade sports drinks for keeping up your glucose or your favourite sugary drink. I like to pack bananas and chewy sweets for that needed sugar boost. Here at Lighthouse, we have vegan lollies to give our clients too during the tattoo session. Our receptionist is always happy to do a coffee or shop run for you too so don’t feel shy to ask!

3. Keep it clean!

Please show up clean. This is obvious to most, but just as your artist will be showered and clean, please also give them the same respect. You don't want to be sitting there straight after a gym session sweaty and smelling for your artist! As a tattoo is an open wound, practising good person hygiene is essential for your new ink to heal without any problems. Don't worry about shaving the area as we do that at the appointment for you. Make sure your skin is undamaged (sunburn, cuts, bruises etc) as we cannot tattoo over these areas.

4. Dress for your session!

You want to be as comfortable as possible during your tattoo and that means wearing a comfortable practical outfit. You don’t want to be wearing restrictive or expensive clothing that could end up covered in ink. Additionally, think about your clothing in relation to the placement of the design as the artist will need to access that area. We have areas where you can change once you arrive at the studio. It is important to remember we see bodies of different shapes and sizes every day, we are not judging you or your body, we want you to be comfortable and happy. I myself, bring a pillow to a long session to make myself comfortable. This would be wrapped in a protective layer to promote hygiene.

5. Give us notice of changes

We understand that emergencies come up and that is completely fine. However, when you cancel at the last minute on your artist that entire time slot is gone for them. Any other clients they could have taken on are lost because the spot was reserved for you. Of course, things happen, but please let your artist know as soon as possible regarding any changes in your appointment.

6. Be confident in communicating

And finally, enjoy it! Be confident in communicating with your artist on any worries, designs changes, placement or size. We want to work with you and for you to be happy with the final result! Feel free to bring headphones, a book, a film to watch if that's what will make you comfortable or chat our ear off! We want your good memories of the tattoo process at Lighthouse to last as long as the tattoo does!

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

If you have any questions about your tattoo appointment – or anything else tattoo-related – please get in touch. You can give us a call on 01273 739 019 during normal working hours.

One of our friendly Lighthouse team will be happy to help. Or if you’re looking for a piercing shop in Brighton, please pop into our studio on Queen’s Road.