Tattooing, explained - How does it work?
Interested in getting a tattoo but want to know more about the process, including any risks? Understanding this will make sure you feel more comfortable and confident about your choices , including what you can do to make sure you give your tattoo the best chance at a solid heal with minimal issues.
Its (tattoo) time!
Whether you're thinking of taking the big step to getting your first tattoo, or you're a seasoned pro, it's always useful (interesting, even?) to know more about the procedure you're considering undertaking. We will give you a wee breakdown of the before, the during, and the after, to help answer any questions you may have.
Risks and Important Information to know
With tattoos becoming more popular and more diverse in terms of both design and clients, its important to remember that they are in essence, wounds. Yes, they look smashing, but we need to ensure that we understand the risks associated with getting one - and that both the artist of your choice - and you - do everything in your control to ensure a good heal. That said, sometimes things can happen outwith anyones control, and we want to ensure you are fully aware of these potential risks going in.
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You will be required to discuss your relevant medical history with your artist and include this on your consent form on the day of your appointment. If you are unsure whether a particular condition or medication will cause any issues, feel free to drop us an email and enquire. In some cases, we may refer you to your doctor to confirm it will be safe to carry out the procedure.
Its also good to be aware of the potential risks and side effects stemming from the tattooing process.
Allergic Reactions - Occasionally, some clients can have allergic reactions to inks - its less common these days with the high quality sterile products used (if you go to a reputable studio) but is still useful to keep in mind. We dont use latex gloves as a rule either to avoid the more common latex allergies.
Infections - We strive to give the most hygenic and sterile tattooing experience possible by wrapping all equipment, employing single-use consumables where possible and by giving you the best aftercare advice, but sometimes even something seemingly minor like not washing your hands before applying cream to your new tattoo can cause an infection. Please always update your artist first and foremost as we can advise you through this process, including if you are best to proceed for medical advice.
Miscellaneous Skin Issues/Reactions - e.g. inflammation, granuloma, cellulitis, localised swelling, bruising, ink drift (when the body fights the introduction of ink in the body and leaves the area surrounding the tattoo with an almost lightly bruised appearance).
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We will strictly not tattoo anyone under the age of 18 - parental consent is not applicable for this procedure. We take photographic ID from every client prior to your appointment. Please note it is an offence to give false information or identification. We will not tattoo anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
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The 'Before'...
Preparation is key to a happy, comfortable and relaxed appointment. Here are some hints and tips to make sure your appointment goes as smoothly as possible.
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Sleep well! Make sure you get a good nights sleep the evening prior to your appointment. Ideally, no alcohol too, as a hungover client is a sad client - give yourself a fighting chance! If you're recovering from a heavy night, your bodys adrenaline is helping you feel better from that, and won't help with pain tolerance at all. We wouldn't risk it!
Get something substantial in your stomach prior to your appointment - it gives your body something to process to fuel you through the session.
If possible, moisturising the area in the lead up to your appointment really helps your skin take the ink - happy skin and happy tattoo artist, what more could you want!
Shower/wash prior to your appointment - your artist will be sitting in close proximity and its just nicer all round.
Ensure you wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that give easy access to the area to be tattooed and won't cause any issues should the area swell slightly - we can always give suggestions on clothing if required for certain areas. Also, don't wear your best gear - there is always a possibility of ink getting on your clothes!
Don't apply fake tan in the area of your appointment in the fortnight preceeding - and no numbing creams.
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During your session
Sugary juice and snacks are always a great idea to bring along to keep you fuelled throughout your appointment, as well as some water to keep you hydrated. If you're in for a full day session, bring some lunch too. We are all here to make your experience as comfortable and happy as possible, so you're more than welcome to ask for bathroom breaks, or a pause to even stand and stretch if you've been sitting for a while.
We also appreciate that everyone handles pain differently, and thats ok! We are happy to carry out your appointment in whatever mood suits, if you want a chat (unless we need to really concentrate!), or if you want to chill, read a book or even watch a movie on your phone.
The 'After'...
Again, make sure you get something good to eat (and we can almost guarantee it will be the tastiest thing you've had in ages!) We recommend not overindulging with alcohol as your tolerance will be out of the window - and honestly, you'll be pretty tired too, so no huge plans afterward is usually a good idea.
Please ensure you follow the aftercare given by your artist and if you have an issues or questions please contact them directly for advice first. We advise no swimming (wild or in swimming pools), saunas, steam rooms, baths (showers only please!, fake tan over your tattoo or exposure to sunshine (no pre-holidays appointments) for a minimum of three weeks or until your tattoo is fully healed.
