Things to Know Before You Get Your First Tattoo

If you are planning to get your first tattoo, then don’t be afraid to start small. Give yourself some time to get used to its permanence and also learn the procedure. Here are some important things you should know before getting yourself inked.

Start with a Small Tattoo

Getting inked can be an ambitious thing for a lot of people. We often worry about its everlasting nature and the painful process. If these are some of the things you are worried about but still want to get a tattoo, then starting small is your best bet. There are many small tattoo ideas online that can help you choose a meaningful one without the pain and hassle of going with a big tattoo. Small tattoos also acquaint you with the procedure, the way your body heals, and your tolerance for pain.

Respect your Limits

There is no shame in admitting that you cannot withstand a lot of pain. Large tattoos can be a long and agonizing process. Therefore, it is advisable to take it easy on your first one and educate yourself about your body’s limits. Some sensitive areas can be more painful than the others such as the back of your knees, ribs, elbows, ear cartilage etc.

Time it Carefully

If you are planning to take a beach vacation right after your first tattoo, then think again. Sun and water are both bad for a new tattoo. So unless you are willing to forsake the sun and sand after getting inked, don’t do it. The best time is spring or autumn when the weather is relatively dry and less sunny that helps you heal faster.

Don’t Go Penny Pinching

Unless you get tattooed by a trusted friend, it is better to pay a little extra to ensure quality and safety. Cheap tattoo parlors may seem like a sweet deal but remember that this tattoo is going to be with you for a lifetime. So invest in it and ensure that you are using the artist who is known for quality.

Learn About Your Artist

Don’t entrust your body into the hands of an amateur. Search online, ask your friends for recommendations, and perform thorough due diligence before getting inked. Your tattoo artist must have sufficient experience and reputation for you to commit to them. Make sure that their work standards match your expectations. You can also read unbiased online reviews to learn about their professionalism and work ethic.

Choose Your Design Carefully

It is common for people to get their lovers or boyfriend/girlfriend’s name or photos tattooed. It may seem like the perfect gift of love right now, but are you 100% sure about the stability of your relationship? The very fact that a tattoo stays with you forever, but the person may not, should instigate you to choose wisely.

Tattoos are a great way to express yourself in the form of body art. However, these simple tips will help you stay true to it for the rest of your life and not regret it years later.