Your Complete Tattoo Session Preparation Checklist

Tattoo stencil preparation

Are you gearing up for your next tattoo session? Tattoos can be physically challenging but your preparation in the day prior to your tattoo can significantly impact how well you are able to handle the pain and length of your session.

Here is a tattoo preparation guide so that you can maximise your tattoo experience. Independent of whether you are in for a long or short tattoo session, if it's your first tattoo or your twentieth, keep these tattoo session tips in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Preparing for your tattoo session: Do's and Don'ts

What should you do before a tattoo session?

1. Prioritise rest. A good night's sleep can work wonders in calming your nerves and enhancing your tolerance to pain.

2. Stay hydrated and nourished. Hydration and proper nutrition are key to maintaining your energy levels during a tattoo session. Drink plenty of water and have a good meal beforehand to keep your body fuelled and ready.

3. Consider shaving. If necessary, shave the area the day before your tattoo appointment. Our studio will take care of shaving for you, if you can't reach, or are afraid that you'll cause excess damage to your skin. Keep in mind we cannot tattoo over broken skin. If you have any concerns or hesitations, leave it to us - we've got you covered!

4. Moisture your skin. Keep your skin well-hydrated by moisturising the area to be tattooed. This can contribute to better ink absorption and a smoother tattooing process.

What shouldn't you do before getting a tattoo?

1. Avoid alcohol or drugs. Refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs the night before your appointment and arrive sober. Alcohol thins the blood, increasing the risk of excessive bleeding during tattooing, which can compromise the quality of your tattoo. If heavily intoxicated, the tattoo session will need to be moved to another day.

2. Consider moderating caffeine intake. Pre-workout supplements should be limited due to their stimulant content, which elevate heart rate and blood pressure. While these drinks are suitable for heavy workouts where your body needs to regenerate its nutrition intake faster, they're not ideal for a tattoo session. A cup of coffee or small energy drink is still fine.

Artist in action

What should you bring to a tattoo session?

1. Plenty of snacks. Bring a variety of snacks rich in salts and sugars to maintain your energy levels throughout the session. Don't forget to bring hydrating fluids to stay refreshed. These are a tattoo session essential.

2. Comfortable clothing. Opt for loose and comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area.

3. Open mind and enough time for the appointment. In order to get the full benefits of the creative process, allow for enough time in your schedule for the appointment and maintain a flexible mindset.

4. A valid ID. It might be checked as in order to get a tattoo in Finland you must be of legal age.

With these tattooing best practices in mind, coupled with proper aftercare, you'll not only enjoy a smooth and comfortable session but also set the stage for a beautiful and lasting piece of body art. I hope this checklist helps you feel more prepared before getting a tattoo!

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Night Owl is a tattoo artist based in Helsinki, Finland. He specialises in abstract and contemporary tattoo styles. To book a tattoo session with him you can contact him through instagram or through the contact form below.