How to Prepare for Your Tattoo Session

Follow these tips to ensure the best possible experience and results from your tattoo appointment.

Before Your Tattoo

Rest Well

Get 9-10 hours of good sleep the night before your appointment. A rested body handles discomfort and heals faster.

Eat a Proper Meal

Have a substantial meal around two hours before your session. This keeps your energy up and helps avoid dizziness or fatigue during the process.

Stay Clean

  • Shower before your appointment
  • Wash and tie up long hair
  • Avoid perfumes, aftershave, or body sprays
  • Do not shave the area yourself — the studio will handle that

Dress Comfortably

Wear loose, clean clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area. Choose items you won't mind possibly getting ink on.

Stay Energised

Bring healthy snacks such as sandwiches, fruit, or salads. Stay hydrated with water or natural juice. Avoid excessive caffeine or energy drinks, as they can heighten your sensitivity.

Bring Entertainment

Long sessions can get boring — bring something to pass the time:

  • Music or podcasts (with earphones)
  • A good book or magazine
  • A film or series on your phone/tablet (and charger)

When Not to Get Tattooed

Reschedule your appointment if you:

  • Are feeling ill, run-down, or hungover
  • Have consumed alcohol or drugs within 24 hours
  • Have sunburned or freshly tanned skin
  • Have new scar tissue in the tattoo area (less than 6 months for solid colour or 3 years for detailed work)
  • Have a raised birthmark in the area
  • Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on your period
  • Have taken blood-thinning medications within 24 hours, including: Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Clopidogrel, Dipyridamole, Prasugrel, Ticagrelor, Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Rivaroxaban, Heparin-based medications, Warfarin, and similar anticoagulants

Medical Conditions Requiring Caution

Seek medical advice before booking if you have:

  • Heart conditions (prosthetic heart valves, valve disease, angina, high/low blood pressure)
  • Neurological conditions (epilepsy, seizures, fainting, narcolepsy, panic attacks)
  • Bleeding disorders (haemophilia, blood clotting issues)
  • Bloodborne infections (hepatitis, HIV)
  • Autoimmune conditions (diabetes, lupus)
  • Skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, slow healing, keloid scarring history)
  • Severe allergies or sensitivities (reactions to plasters, creams, latex, pigments, dyes, soaps, disinfectants)
  • Any other diagnosed health condition interfering with tattooing or healing

Your safety is our top priority. Please let us know before your appointment if you have any concerns — all conversations are confidential.

Ready to Book?

Now that you know how to prepare, book your appointment or get in touch with any questions.