Tattooing is a beautiful and personal art form, but it also involves small needles penetrating your skin thousands of times over several hours. This can lead to discomfort and unwanted bleeding if your body is not properly prepared. Therefore, it is crucial to take certain precautions before you sit in the tattoo chair. Your experience and your safety are my top priorities, so let's explore some important preparatory steps that can make all the difference.
Avoid Alcohol, Coffee, and Pain Medication
Alcohol, coffee, and pain medication like Panadol are well-known blood thinners. These substances can increase bleeding during the tattooing process and potentially complicate it. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to avoid alcohol for 24 to 48 hours before your tattoo session. This will help ensure that your blood coagulates normally and minimizes the risk of bleeding. The same goes for coffee - limit your intake in the hours leading up to your session.
Although Panadol and similar pain relievers can help alleviate the pain during the tattooing process, they should be avoided 24 to 48 hours before your session to prevent increased bleeding. However, you can take a couple of Panadol during the tattooing process if necessary.
Hydration is Crucial
Maintaining a healthy fluid balance is crucial for your comfort and safety during the tattooing process. Consume ample amounts of healthy fluids in the days leading up to your session. Water, soup, juice, and herbal tea are good choices. Water helps renew cells and makes your skin more resilient and flexible, which can significantly ease the tattooing process. Moreover, adequate hydration will help you avoid discomfort, headaches, and nausea that may occur as a result of dehydration during a long tattooing session.
Foods Rich in Vitamin C and Moisturizer
To aid your body in healing and repairing itself after getting a tattoo, it's a good idea to increase your intake of foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, blackberries, kiwi, mango, and vegetables like sweet potatoes, cauliflower, broccoli, bell peppers, kale, and Brussels sprouts. These natural sources of healing compounds support the body's tissue repair and healing process, reducing the risk of infection and improving the outcome of your tattoo.
In the days leading up to your session, it's also a good idea to moisturize the area to be tattooed with a good moisturizer. This makes the skin more supple and facilitates my work. Well-hydrated skin is more elastic and can better absorb the ink, which can give you a more beautiful and long-lasting result.
Sleep and Food on the Day of the Tattoo
On the actual day of your tattoo, it is crucial that you have had sufficient sleep. This will help you stay calm and relaxed during the process. Also, make sure to have eaten a proper meal so that you have enough energy. This will help prevent dizziness or nausea during the tattooing.
Remember to bring light snacks and something sweet to your tattoo session, especially if it is expected to take several hours. Your blood sugar level can drop when you sit still for an extended period, and something sweet can help keep it stabilized. In particular, chocolate has been proven to release endorphins and can, therefore, act as a pain reliever.
At my studio, your safety and comfort are top priorities. By following these preparatory steps, you can ensure a more pleasant experience. I look forward to welcoming you to the studio and assisting you in creating your next masterpiece on your body.
If you want to learn more about the aftercare for your new tattoo, you can find detailed information here.