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You’ve decided to get a piece of art placedon your body, one that will live there permanently.
Whether you get your firsttattoothe day you turn eighteen (hi!)
Bustos believes you’re able to find inspiration anywhere.
“Tattooing is an extreme representation of something you love… a true sign of commitment.
Be sure to researchtattoo stylesto help you narrow down the look.
And “of course, always ensure they [practice] in a clean and safe environment.”
You’ll want to choose an artist who is happy to work with you and the design you want.
“They will help withplacement, design, and style to confirm it looks the best it can.”
“By the time you [arrive] at the appointment, the artist will have your design ready.
Any good artist will work with you to ensure the tattoo is everything you dreamed of and more.”
Here are some tips to help you prepare.
They’ll shave the area first, if necessary.
Once you agree on the size and placement of your piece, it’s time to go.
Tattoosfeel likewhat they are: vibrating needles being dragged through your skin.
That means you’re likely to experience some pain.
Breathe through it, and you should be fine.
If you’re concerned, Love recommends applying anumbing creamin advance.
“My favorite pain control product is Mad Rabbit’s Relieve Numbing Cream,” he says.
“I recommend applying it approximately 30-45 minutes [before] tattooing.
My artist even uses it while he’s tattooing.”
Take breaks as needed, drink water (but don’t gulp it), and stand up occasionally.
Most artists these days apply a “second skin” bandage to your tattoo.
If it leaks, change it and apply a new one.
“When directed by your artist, unwrap the bandage around your new tattoo,” says Bustos.
“This usually happens after [around] three to five days.”
“Rinse with clean, warmnot hotwater and pat dry the area with a clean paper towel.
double-check to wash your hands after touching the fresh tattoo.”
Once the bandage is off and your tattoo is clean, keep it moisturized.
Apply two to three times per day or as recommended by your artist.”
You’re likely to experience some itching as the tattoo heals.
You’ll also want to keep your tattoo out of the sun for the duration.
Long-Term Tattoo Care and Maintenance
Your tattoo is now healed, but your work is not done.
Tattoos require ongoing moisturization to stay vibrant.
You’ll want to use a good quality moisturizer on your tattoo daily after bathing.
Additionally, sunscreen needs to be your bestie.
“Repeated and excessive sun exposure will cause theloss of tattoo pigmentand result in fading.
Before your appointment, rest up and eat well.
Long-term, use a high-SPF sunscreen and keep your tattoo well moisturized.
