How to Prepare for Your Tattoo Session

A great tattoo starts long before you sit in the chair. While your artist is responsible for the design and application, your body's condition plays a huge role in how well the session goes—and how well the tattoo heals. Follow these 5 essential steps to prepare.

1. Eat a Big Meal

This is non-negotiable. Getting tattooed burns calories and drops your blood sugar levels significantly due to the adrenaline response. A drop in blood sugar is the #1 cause of fainting or passing out. Eat a heavy, carb-rich meal (pasta, rice, potatoes) 1-2 hours before your appointment to keep your energy steady.

2. Stay Hydrated

Hydrated skin accepts ink much easier than dehydrated skin. Start drinking extra water 24 hours before your session. Avoid excessive caffeine on the day of, as it can dehydrate you and make you jittery.

3. Get a Good Night's Sleep

Your pain tolerance is directly linked to how rested you are. If you’re exhausted or hungover, the tattoo will hurt significantly more. Aim for a solid 8 hours of sleep the night before to ensure your nervous system is calm and ready.

4. Avoid Alcohol & Blood Thinners

Do not drink alcohol the night before or the day of your tattoo. Alcohol thins your blood, which causes excessive bleeding. Heavy bleeding pushes the ink back out of the skin, leading to a patchy, faded tattoo. Also avoid aspirin or excessive ibuprofen unless medically necessary.

5. Shower Beforehand

It seems obvious, but it’s important. You and your artist will be in close personal space for hours. A shower ensures your skin is clean of surface bacteria (reducing infection risk) and makes the experience pleasant for everyone involved. Please do not apply heavy lotions or numbing creams without asking your artist first.