Everything I Wish I Knew Before Getting a Tattoo: Insights from a Queens Tattoo Artist
As a seasoned NYC tattoo artist working at Rebel Ink in Ozone Park, Queens, I've learned a lot about what clients should know before stepping into our studio. Here’s a compilation of key insights that could enhance your tattoo experience.
Communication Expectations Post-Booking
After you book your appointment, it's common not to hear from your tattoo artist until the day you come in. We tattoo artists have a packed schedule and often prepare your design on the same day of your appointment to efficiently manage our workload. Rest assured, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss and make changes on your appointment day.
Preparing Your Skin
One of the best tips I can offer is to start moisturizing your skin a few days before your session. Hydrated skin takes ink better, making the process smoother and the outcome sharper. Dry skin can be troublesome as it’s harder to work the ink into parched surfaces. About three days before your appointment, integrate exfoliation into your routine to shed excess skin cells that might clog the tattoo needles. However, halt these skin treatments a day before your session to ensure your skin is in perfect condition for tattooing.
Avoiding Certain Substances
It's advisable to steer clear of alcohol or drugs in the days leading up to your tattoo session. These substances can dehydrate your skin and reduce your pain tolerance, complicating the inking process. Although some may consider using numbing creams to ease discomfort, I strongly discourage it. The tattoo market is flooded with counterfeit numbing products, especially those sold on platforms like Amazon, which might contain harmful chemicals. These creams can lead to severe skin reactions, and as artists, we cannot guarantee their safety. If you feel a numbing cream is necessary, please discuss it with your artist ahead of time, and only use products under their supervision.
Choosing the Right Clothing for Your Tattoo Session
What you wear to your tattoo appointment is crucial for both your comfort and the success of the session. Since there's a risk of ink splatter, it's wise to avoid wearing your favorite outfits, such as your best Nikes, which you wouldn’t want to get stained.
For tattoos on the arms, tank tops are excellent as they provide easy access and minimal interference with the tattooing process. If you're getting a tattoo on your sternum or back, consider wearing a zip-up hoodie. This type of clothing allows for quick and easy access to these areas without having to remove your shirt completely.
Be mindful of how clothing might affect your tattoo session. Holding clothes out of the way can stretch and distort the skin, which can pose challenges when placing the stencil. It’s crucial that the skin remains unobstructed and not pulled or stretched by clothing.
Our studio at Rebel Ink values your comfort above all. We have private spaces where barriers ensure confidentiality, and you’re welcome to have a friend or partner accompany you for support. For those concerned about privacy, we offer options like pasties, but if you prefer not to use them, that’s perfectly okay—I’m skilled at adapting to each client's comfort level.
Given the potential for some mess and the need for accessible tattoo areas, bringing an extra set of clothes is a good idea. This allows you to change into something clean and comfortable after the session, ensuring that you leave feeling fresh. Above all, remember that your comfort is our top priority. By choosing the right attire, you can help us ensure your tattooing experience is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Punctuality is Key
Arriving exactly on time for your appointment is crucial. We understand that life can be unpredictable, but communication is key. If you suspect you'll be late, inform us as soon as possible. Remember, timing is essential not only for your appointment but also for clients scheduled after you. We need to ensure that each art piece gets the attention it deserves within the allocated time. Respecting the schedule helps maintain a smooth workflow and ensures everyone leaves happy with their new art. to avoid losing a deposit please communicate with your artist.
By keeping these points in mind, you’re more likely to enjoy a smoother, more pleasant tattooing experience. At Rebel Ink in Queens, we're committed to ensuring your tattoo not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Ready to book your next piece? Visit us and let’s create something amazing together! Click this link to get started.
