Getting a tattoo is a commitment, and long sessions can be particularly challenging. Whether it's your first tattoo or you're adding to an existing collection, here are some tips and tricks to help you endure lengthy tattoo appointments and ensure a smooth, successful experience.
1. Prepare Your Body
Hydrate:
Drink plenty of water before your session. Hydrated skin takes ink better and can make the tattoo process smoother.
Eat Well:
Have a substantial meal before your appointment. Eating foods rich in protein and carbohydrates can help maintain your energy levels throughout the session.
Rest:
Make sure you get a good night's sleep before your tattoo appointment. Being well-rested will help you cope better with the physical stress of tattooing.
2. Dress Comfortably
Wear Appropriate Clothing:
Dress in loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed. Consider layers, as you might get hot or cold during the session.
Bring a Blanket or Pillow:
For longer sessions, bringing a small blanket or pillow can make you more comfortable, especially if you need to lie down for extended periods.
3. Bring Distractions
Entertainment:
Bring headphones, music, audiobooks, or a tablet to watch movies or shows. Keeping your mind occupied can help distract from the discomfort. This is one we here at ink nurse ALL personally vouch for! A good show or podcast, try your best to zone out and lay still.
Books or Magazines:
Reading material can be a good distraction during breaks or less intense moments of the tattoo process.
4. Communicate with Your Artist
Discuss Breaks:
Agree on taking regular breaks with your tattoo artist. This can help you manage the pain and give you time to stretch and relax. Whenever you feel like you need a break, just politely mention you're feeling like you need one to your artist. Also, artists need breaks too! Something that isn't said often enough!
Express Concerns:
Don’t hesitate to speak up if you’re feeling too much pain or discomfort. A good artist will understand and make adjustments to help you cope.
5. Manage Pain
Topical Numbing Creams:
Controversial topic! Some people swear by it, some people don't. Some artist's may even refuse to tattoo you if you use it. Many people have many different results from these products and a big reason why we here at ink nurse haven't produced a product in this category yet, is that it's just such a tricky landscape to navigate when it comes to safe, effective and legally viable manufacturing. However, stay tuned, you know we are always working on innovative ideas and products in the background. At the end of the day, if you want to use a product like this, PLEASE run it by your artist beforehand - you don't want to waste anyone's time and make an assumption that your artist is cool with it. Also, do a patch test on yourself at home before. There's nothing worse than you trying it for the first time at a studio and having an adverse reaction and your session is cancelled.
Pain Relievers:
Check with your artist and healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter pain relievers. Some can thin your blood and cause excessive bleeding though, so tread with caution here. This is not a recommendation from us, we think the pain is part of the journey, but if you find that products like panadol etc help, then do so, but do so cautiously.
6. Take Care of Your Skin
Moisturise:
Keep your skin well-moisturised leading up to your appointment. Ink Nurse Remedy Cream is perfect for ensuring your skin is in optimal condition for tattooing.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs:
Stay away from alcohol and recreational drugs before your tattoo session, as they can thin your blood and increase bleeding and discomfort. This is one of the WORST decisions you can make in the days leading up to your tattoo appointment.
7. Post-Tattoo Care
Follow Aftercare Instructions:
Proper aftercare is crucial for the healing process. Use Foam Nurse and Ink Nurse Remedy Cream to clean and moisturise your new tattoo, promoting faster healing and better results. If you like using second skin, use the ink nurse tattoo wrap pro for the ultimate hypoallergenic tattoo second skin healing film wraps.
Rest and Recover:
Give your body time to recover after a long session. Stay hydrated, eat well, and rest to help your body heal.
Conclusion
Long tattoo sessions can be demanding, but with proper preparation and care, you can make the experience more manageable. By following these tips and using Ink Nurse products, you'll be better equipped to endure the process and ensure your tattoo heals beautifully.