How to Prepare for Your First Tattoo Session
Mimizuku sleeping on a maple branch, c.1830s-1840s, Utagawa Hiroshige.
A good tattoo session starts before you even walk into the studio. Preparation doesn’t need to be complicated, but it makes a real difference—not just for your comfort, but for how well the tattoo goes in and heals afterward. If you show up feeling rested, fed, and relaxed, everything tends to run much smoother.
The Day Before
Keep things simple and set yourself up properly:
Get a full night of sleep
Eat well throughout the day
Drink plenty of water
Avoid alcohol
Being well-rested and hydrated helps your body handle the session much better, especially if it’s your first time.
On the Day
Eat a proper meal beforehand
Don’t come in on an empty stomach. Stable blood sugar makes a big difference to how you feel during the session.
Wear comfortable clothing
Choose something that gives easy access to the area being tattooed. You’ll be sitting or lying still for a while, so comfort matters. If you are getting a arm sleeve wear a singlet you don’t mind getting ink on. Please don’t come in a brand new white T-shirt.
Stay hydrated
Bring water with you. Particularly for longer sessions energy drinks like Powerade are highly recommended.
Bring snacks
Something simple like a muesli bar, chocolates, sweet treats, or a drink with sugar can help if your energy dips. Remember calories don’t count when getting tattooed!
During the Session
You don’t need to push through it.
Let me know if you need a break
Try to stay relaxed—tension makes it harder on both of us
Focus on steady breathing
Longer sessions are about pacing, not forcing it. Most people settle into it once they get started.
Skin Prep (What to Avoid)
Don’t apply numbing creams unless discussed beforehand
Don’t come in sunburnt or with irritated skin
Avoid heavy moisturisers right before your appointment
Pre shave the area if its your first lining session as this saves a lot of time
Aftercare Starts Straight Away
What you do after the session is just as important as the session itself. You’ll be given clear aftercare instructions, but the basics are simple:
Keep it clean and no tight clothing on the area
Wash it twice a day with soap and water
Only touch it when washing it. Don’t let other people touch it.
Don’t over-moisturise
Let it heal naturally. Do not pick or scratch at the tattoo
Good aftercare is what keeps the tattoo looking sharp as it settles.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing you need to overthink. Most of it comes down to showing up well-rested and fed. If you’re unsure about anything before your appointment, it’s always better to ask. Being prepared helps you relax and get the most out of the session.
Booking Your First Session
If you’re ready to get started, feel free to get in touch.
When enquiring, it helps to include:
Your idea or subject
Placement (if known)
Approximate size
Any reference images