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.
