Tattoo Pre-Care Guide

Before Your Tattoo Session

Proper preparation makes a big difference in your tattoo experience and how well it heals. Here's what to do before your appointment.

Eat a substantial meal 1–2 hours before your appointment. Tattoo sessions can be long, and you need energy.
Hydrate well in the days leading up to your appointment. Well-hydrated skin takes ink better.
Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before. Alcohol thins blood and can cause excessive bleeding, affecting ink retention.

Moisturize the area daily for a week before your appointment. Healthy, hydrated skin tattoos best.
Don't shave the area. Your artist will prep the skin before tattooing.
Avoid sunburn. Sunburned or peeling skin cannot be tattooed. Keep the area protected.
No self-tanner or lotions on the day of. Come with clean, dry skin.

Before Your Tattoo Session

Proper preparation makes a big difference in your tattoo experience and how well it heals. Here's what to do before your appointment.

Eat & Hydrate

Eat a substantial meal 1–2 hours before your appointment. Tattoo sessions can be long, and you need energy.

Hydrate well in the days leading up to your appointment. Well-hydrated skin takes ink better.

Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before. Alcohol thins blood and can cause excessive bleeding, affecting ink retention.

Skin Preparation

Moisturize the area daily for a week before your appointment. Healthy, hydrated skin tattoos best.

Don't shave the area. Your artist will prep the skin before tattooing.

Avoid sunburn. Sunburned or peeling skin cannot be tattooed. Keep the area protected.

No self-tanner or lotions on the day of. Come with clean, dry skin.

What to Wear

Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area.

Choose clothes you don't mind getting ink on. Accidents happen.

For longer sessions: dress in layers so you can adjust your temperature.

Avoid Before Your Appointment

No blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen) for 24–48 hours before.

Limit caffeine. It can increase sensitivity and make you jittery.

No recreational drugs. They can affect pain tolerance and healing.

What to Bring

Valid government-issued photo ID (required).

Snacks and water for longer sessions (2+ hours).

Headphones or entertainment. Music, podcasts, or a show to watch.

Reference images if you have any last-minute inspiration.

Payment. We accept cash, card, and Apple Pay.

Day Before

Get a good night's sleep. Being well-rested helps with pain tolerance

Avoid heavy exercise that might irritate the tattoo area

Prepare your aftercare supplies (your artist will give you a list)