What to expect before and after your tattoo appointment

How to Prepare for your tattoo

  • Don’t drink alcohol before the appointment day

  • Be well hydrated, rested, and eat a nice breakfast! Make sure to bring some water and snacks with you

  • Don’t drink too much caffeine before your appointment. 1 cup of coffee is ok.

  • Moisturize and gently exfoliate the area to be tattooed 1-2 weeks prior to your appointment - this will make your skin smoother and easier to tattoo - which can reduce the pain and length of the appointment

  • You don’t need to shave the tattoo placement - we will do that at the appointment

  • Wear something comfortable or bring clothes for a change (ex. shorts for leg tattoos)

  • If possible, free up most of the day when you get tattooed - in case the appointment takes longer or you feel tired after the tattoo

  • Feel free to bring headphones, blanket, books, etc with you. I want you to feel super comfortable and relaxed :)

Aftercare

  • Expect redness and swelling of the tattooed area for 1-2 days

  • Leave a tattoo bandage (second skin) 3-5 days. 24 hours minimum.

  • When taking the second skin off:

    • Run warm water over the bandage

    • Remove it by pulling bandage back and across the skin (like a command strip). Avoid pulling upward

    • Wash the tattoo gently but thoroughly with warm water and antibacterial soap, then pat it dry with clean paper towel

    • Once the tattoo is dry, apply a thin layer of unscented lotion/aquaphor.

  • Repeat the process of washing and applying lotion on a tattoo at least 2-3 times a day for 2 weeks or when its healed to the touch.

  • If you are allergic to the second skin - your skin will be red and itchy around the border of the bandage. If that happens - take the second skin off immediately, and proceed to washing + applying lotion stage.

  • Do not pick or scratch your tattoo

  • Do not clean with peroxide or alcohol

  • Do not go swimming and avoid soaking your tattoo under water for 2 weeks

  • Avoid direct sunlight for 2 weeks. Use sunscreen after the initial 2 weeks to keep your tattoo bright.

  • In a rare case of an infection - your tattoo will be very swollen, red and raised. It will be very painful to the touch, and some puss might start to come out - if this happens - please immediately reach out to your doctor!

If you have any questions - please do not hesitate to reach out to me!

Email: lucylinsetattoo@gmail.com

Instagram: @lucy.inks