Preparing For Your Tattoo

Tattoos are super cool, but they're also pretty painful. For most people, getting a tattoo isn't just about getting ink on your body, it's also about the experience of going through the process and overcoming what can be a pretty intense pain tolerance test. But there are ways to make your tattoo experience less painful — and even enjoyable! Here are some tips for getting through the process without numbing creams or other chemicals in your system:-

Ditch the numbing cream:-

I’m sure you have a number of reasons why numbing cream is okay to use. Maybe you have a low pain tolerance, or maybe you just don't like needles. Either way, I’ll tell you now it's time to chuck it out. 

While some people might argue that numbing cream gives them a false sense of security and makes them less likely to think about thousands of tiny needles punching in and out of their skin, it can actually make the experience far worse. Even though numbing cream may stop pain temporarily, it does not help you heal from whatever ailment caused your pain in the first place, eventually what should only be a small throb of pain after getting tattooed could turn into agony once your nerves start working again.

Prep your skin:-

First and foremost, you'll want to prep your skin the night before. Shower using Dr Pickles Tattoo Foaming Wash and exfoliate using a dry cloth, potentially shave the area you wish to have tattooed and save your artist time and money from using disposable razors.

On the day:-

• Eat a healthy, nutritious meal.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Have a snack before and maybe even during your appointment. This will keep your blood sugar levels balanced and prevent the dreaded head-rush once you stand up from the tattoo chair.
• Don't drink alcohol or take drugs and avoid blood thinning medication at least 24 hours before and after the tattoo. Alcohol dilutes your blood and can weaken the immune system needed to heal your tattoo.

Have a distraction:-

The best way to get through a tattooing session is by having something to distract yourself from the pain. Bring along your phone with an audio book or movie playing. This will help pass some time and keep your mind off what's going on.

Another thing that's really important is it’s ok to have breaks or stop if anything is hurting too badly, if you’re feeling uncomfortable or need a moment to refresh. Talk about any pain with your artist before proceeding further, it’s part of the process. And lastly…

Don't forget about the aftercare!

Once your tattoo has healed you should continue to take care of it. Keep the area clean and dry, especially during the first few weeks after getting inked. Avoid picking or scratching at your tattoo as this can cause scarring and damage to the ink. 

Continue to use Dr Pickles Foaming Tattoo Wash as directed and keep your tattoo moisturized with Dr Pickles Tattoo Balm.

For more info on aftercare instructions, visit the links below:

Dr Pickles Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

How To Look After Your Tattoo

Published: 26/9/2022 | Author: Nikita Jeppesen