7 Things You Need to Know Before Getting Your First Tattoo

Are you thinking about getting your first tattoo? Getting inked is a significant undertaking as a tattoo is often meant to last forever. Here are seven things you should know before adding a tattoo to your body.

1. You need to be 18 to get inked

Like voting, you need to be 18 years and above to get your first tattoo in most states. Most countries have laws and regulations regarding body modification and art on minors because inking is a medical procedure that makes one vulnerable to bacteria, infections, and viruses. However, a minor can still get inked, but they need parental consent. Be sure to research your state’s policies regarding tattoos to avoid breaking laws.

2. Picking the right artist is crucial

Choosing your artist is one of the most crucial decisions you will have to make when getting inked for the first time. It can significantly impact how you feel about your body, so you should pick an artist experienced in their work and one you trust. To choose the right artist, you should:

• Consider how long they have been inking. While an apprentice can perfectly tattoo simple designs, some styles like black and gray tattoos require a veteran inking artist.
• Check the portfolio of their previous work to determine the artist’s specialties. Request pictures of healed tattoos to assess how the artist’s work will appear as the tattoo ages
• Determine whether or not they offer touch-up appointments in case you experience blemishes when healing
• Evaluate how much they charge
• Ask for referrals and recommendations from family and friends who have been tattooed before

3. You should not rush the choice of your preferred tattoo design

A tattoo is often a permanent addition to your body, so you should not rush the design choice. Avoid going for trendy designs that lose meaning or become outdated with time. Tattooing the name of your mom, child, friend, or significant other may also not be a good idea. Consider picking a tattoo design that aligns with your personality, feelings, and who you are.

4. A bigger tattoo can take multiple sessions to complete

Before getting a tattoo, it is crucial to determine how long it will take to decide whether or not you want to go ahead with your preferred design. A bigger tattoo or a design with a lot of colors can take more than one session to finish, implying that you will not have a complete tattoo within your initial visit. Typically, larger tattoo designs with lots of detail and color require two sessions to complete, and it could take months to complete a sleeve. Simple, small tattoos can even take five minutes to finish. Be sure to enquire about your tattoo design timeline from your artist before getting started because the more sessions you take, the more dollars you have to spend. 

5. You should always establish that the shop and your artist have safety in mind

Along with choosing one artist you are most comfortable with, you should also ascertain that they prioritize safety. Start by determining whether or not the shop and your artist are compliant with the local laws. Different countries have specific rules and regulations for artists. For instance, some states will require artists to undertake bloodborne pathogens training. Others will demand artists to have a license, while some need only the shop to be licensed.

Next, inspect the shop’s condition. Does it have non-porous surfaces? Is the shop clean? Does your tattoo artist unwrap a new needle and prepare fresh ink in your presence? Keep in mind that a new tattoo is also an open wound, so choosing an area with proper sanitation is crucial. Avoid stores with porous materials like marble or wood as they are difficult to sanitize. Instead, choose stores with stainless steel surfaces.

6. The tattoo size and style have a significant impact on prices

Tattoo artists often adjust prices according to the style and size of the tattoo you pick. It is worth noting that tattoo artists could increase costs when they realize you are getting inked for the first time. Consider requesting an estimate beforehand. Alternatively, tag along with a friend who has been tattooed before to help you research or negotiate prices to avoid paying more than you should. 

7. You do not have to get stuck with it you no longer like

 If your tattoo design no longer holds meaning to you, you could consider covering it up or removing it by contacting seattle tattoo removal. There are various methods of removing tattoos, including: 

• Surgical excision: This involves your doctor removing the tattooed skin using scalpels, then sewing the surrounding skin together.
• Laser therapy: This involves your surgeon injecting the tattooed area with an anesthetic and then using energy pulses to shatter and heat the ink.
• Dermabrasion: It involves numbing the tattooed area and sanding away the inked layers using high-speed devices. 

Removing a tattoo is painful and expensive, so avoid the process by picking the right design. 

Endnote

Do not let the excitement of getting your first tattoo keep you from conducting sufficient research to ascertain an incident-free process. You do not want to walk away with a tattoo you do not like, get infected, or spend more money to have it removed. Take time to explore your options while keeping the above tips in mind to ensure a regret-free experience.