What You Need to Know Before Getting a Tattoo
In the medical world we have an expression: as evidenced by (AEB). It simply means, this is a thing as evidenced by this thing. For example: spontaneous ink is a thing, AEB the multitude of tattoo shops in any given tourist hot spot. Maybe you want a permanent and portable souvenir. Perhaps you had a few local libations and finally got the nerve to tramp stamp your favorite team’s logo. In the world of body modification, the only rule is you do you. So, don’t go gently into that good night, my friend! Be bold and brave, silly and spontaneous. Just keep in mind there are a few things you need to know before getting a tattoo.
Drink Water, Not Cocktails
Alcohol makes for bad decisions. Alcohol also makes you bleed profusely during a tattoo. Do yourself and your artist a favor and hydrate up. You certainly won’t bleed to death, but you want to have the best possible canvas for this work of art, and the ink a happy surface to adhere to. Additionally, keep in mind your skin is your body’s biggest organ. It needs time to heal, and since alcohol also impairs sleep (which is when our bodies heal), you’re setting yourself up for a less than optimal recovery.
Make it Mean Something
You’re unique, and your ink should be as well. Don’t select your tattoo off Pinterest. Don’t farm the net for images, but do farm for ideas! Consider your individuality and consult with your artist. I took several pictures to my artist and explained my reason for wanting this particular design. He took my intent and turned it into a masterpiece. Which brings me to my next point…
Do Your Research aka Yelp Can Help
I have a few regrettable tattoos, so when it came time to start my sleeve, I researched extensively until I found an artist with great reviews and ridiculous talent. Jason was not only sought after, he was an artist with a style that suited my personality. He worked with me on a design that was unique, beautiful, and most importantly one of a kind. Because I did my homework, I have art I can wear proudly. Speaking of proud, you can catch Jason on Ink Masters Season Ten right now.
Eat and Plan to Eat Again
Depending on the length of your session, you might want to take a snack. The stress of a tattoo can drain your food stores, causing you to feel lightheaded or worse. Plan to eat before your tattoo, and take a sugar-laden snack with you to keep your energy level high.
Sunburned? Walk This (A)way
If you heed no other warnings and you’re still hell-bent on getting a vacation tattoo, listen closely, Linda. If you have a sunburn, skip the ink and buy the t-shirt instead. Damaged skin will tear and it will bleed, and your tattoo will NOT heal well. Unless you’re planning on placing that feather where the sun didn’t shine, walk away. Remember, your skin is your story, and you want it to have a happy ending.
