Getting a tattoo is an exciting decision for many people, and you may feel like you want to rush into the first shop you see when you decide you want one. It is important to remember, however, that a tattoo is a permanent procedure that should be treated with plenty of forethought and care. From choosing a shop, to taking care of fresh ink, the careful decisions you make will influence the quality and safety of your tattoo.
Before your tattoo
Before you get your tattoo, you will want to choose the right shop and the right artist to tattoo you. Searching local parlors online is a great way to start, because you will likely be able to read reviews of other patrons and see examples of the work particular artists have done. This is also a good time to ask the opinions of any inked friends or family you have, and see if they have an artist or shop they swear by or highly recommend.
When you find an artist you are interested in, make an appointment to meet at the shop. Make note of your impressions of the shop and the artist. If anything rubs you the wrong way, say "thanks anyway" and try somewhere else instead. Pay attention to the cleanliness of the surroundings, the attitude of the people working there and make sure their sterilization methods are up to par.
Getting your tattoo
When you have chosen an artist, the next step is to discuss the tattoo you are going to get. You probably have an idea of what you want, or even have the actual artwork you would like. The artist will sketch your tattoo, or take the artwork you have brought them, and put the design on transfer paper. With some water, this will transfer the design onto your skin and will help you decide the exact placement. The artist can transfer the design on you multiple times, until you find the placement that looks the best to you. Make this decision carefully, because it will be in that location forever.
Be sure to relax your body and follow the instructions of the artist while getting your tattoo. Any sudden movement can botch the artwork, and that can be painful and costly to fix.
Aftercare
Sitting through a tattoo may feel like a great accomplishment, but even more important is taking care of the fresh ink for the next 2-3 weeks. Your tattoo artist may give you a sheet of aftercare instructions, which are important to follow so that the tattoo heals correctly.
You will probably be sent home with a bandage, gauze, or cling wrap on the tattoo, which should be left on for between 1 and 4 hours.
After the covering is taken off, the process will consist of washing with a gentle soap a couple of times a day, followed by carefully patting it dry and applying a thin layer of ointment such as A and D or Neosporin to keep the tattoo from drying out.
You will want to avoid swimming, tanning or soaking in water for at least two weeks after you get your tattoo. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from any irritating chemicals.
No matter how much it itches while it is healing, do not scratch or pick at your tattoo. This can lift color out of the design and cause it to take longer to heal or even get infected. Pat your skin gently or rub some lotion on the tattoo to reduce itching.
A careful decision and the right aftercare can make your tattoo a wonderful piece of art that will last a lifetime.
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