So, you’ve finally decided to get your first tattoo. Good on you. You’ve probably been scrolling through endless tattoo designs, saving pictures, and maybe even doodling something that feels personal. It’s exciting, right? But before you jump into the chair, there are a few things I wish every first-timer knew about tattooing. I’ve been doing this for over twenty years, and I’ve seen everything from last-minute panic attacks to people falling asleep mid-ink. Trust me, if you want your first tattoo to be something you’ll love for years, a bit of prep goes a long way.
1. Choose Your Tattoo Artist
Finding the right tattoo artist is similar to finding the right partner. It’s all about trust, communication, and a commonsense of style. Don’t just enter the first studio you see. Spend time researching artists whose work matches your preferences. Every artist has a signature style. Some excel at fine-line details, while others specialise in bold, old-school shading or realistic portraits.
Check their portfolio, read reviews, and, if possible, visit the studio. The vibe of the place speaks volumes. A clean, professional setup is essential. If the space appears sketchy or the artist appears uninterested in your concept, walk away. A good artist will not simply copy a design; they will work with you to make it your own.
2. Think It Through (But Don’t Overthink It)
I’ve seen people walk in after thinking about a tattoo for five years, and others who decided that morning. The truth is, both approaches can work if you’re honest about why you want it. Tattoos are personal. They can mark a memory, express identity, or simply look beautiful.
If you’re struggling to pick from a thousand tattoo designs, try to narrow it down to the emotion or meaning you want to carry with it. The design will come naturally once you know the why. And remember, placement matters. A tattoo on your rib cage feels very different from one on your forearm.
3. Pain Is Part of the Process (But It’s Manageable)
Let’s be real. Tattooing involves needles and skin. It’s not a spa treatment, but it’s also not the unbearable agony people make it out to be. The pain depends on where you’re getting inked and your own tolerance. Areas with more muscle or fat, like your arms or thighs, are easier. Spots close to the bone, like ribs or ankles, sting more.
The good news is, it’s temporary. Most people describe it as a scratchy or warm buzzing sensation. Once you settle into the rhythm of the machine, your body adapts. Focus on your breathing, and don’t tense up. You’ll be surprised how quickly the nerves fade once you see the design coming to life.
4. Don’t Show Up Hungry, Drunk, or Sleep-Deprived
This one’s simple. Eat a good meal before your appointment. Low blood sugar can make you feel dizzy or faint, especially during long sessions. Hydration helps too. Skip alcohol the night before because it thins your blood, which can make you bleed more during tattooing.
And please, get some sleep. A tired, anxious body reacts more to pain. The calmer and more rested you are, the smoother your session will go.
5. Listen to Your Artist During Tattoo Aftercare
- Keep the bandage on for the first few hours
- Wash the tattoo gently with mild soap and lukewarm water.
- Pat dry, don’t rub.
- Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free ointment or lotion.
- Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and direct sunlight until it heals.
6. Size and Detail Affect Everything
Everyone wants that perfect fine-line quote or intricate mandala on their first try. But small tattoos fade faster and detailed work needs precision. If you’re a first-timer, start with something that suits your comfort level and pain tolerance. You can always add more later.
Your tattoo artist can guide you on what will age well and what won’t. A good design isn’t just about how it looks today, it’s about how it’ll look ten years from now.
7. Expect the Healing Phase to Be Weird
Let’s talk honestly. Your tattoo might look a bit rough in the first week. It’ll scab, peel, and itch. That’s normal. Don’t pick at it, no matter how tempting it feels. Scratching can pull out colour and leave scars. Moisturise lightly and let the skin do its thing.
Once healed, the tattoo will settle into your skin. The lines will soften slightly, and the colours will appear more natural. That’s when you’ll see the real art.
8. Tattoos Are Addictive (In the Best Way)
Almost everyone says, “This is my only one,” and then shows up again in six months. There’s something addictive about tattooing. It’s the combination of pain, adrenaline, and creation. You walk in blank and walk out changed, even if it’s just a small symbol on your wrist.
So, don’t be surprised if your first tattoo turns into the start of a collection. Each one tells a story, a chapter in ink.
9. Respect the Craft
Tattoos are more than just fashion statements; they are works of art that exist on your skin. Respect your artist’s time, abilities, and advice. Arrive on time, be honest about your expectations, and communicate clearly.
Let me know if you need a break. If you are unsure about something, please ask. A good artist always takes the time to explain. This is not just a service; it is a collaboration.
10. Enjoy the Experience
Above all, enjoy it. Getting your first tattoo is considered a rite of passage. It’s a memory you’ll never forget, from the machine buzz to the first look at your finished piece.
So keep an open mind and trust the process. The pain subsides, the nerves relax, but the ink remains, a reminder of who you are in this moment and beyond.
You will never regret treating tattooing as an art form rather than a trend. Find the right tattoo artist, select a design that is meaningful to you, and take tattoo aftercare seriously. Your first tattoo is more than just ink on the skin; it’s a dialogue between your story and your skin.
Thinking about getting your first tattoo?
For years, Ace Tattooz has helped people turn their ideas into timeless art. Whether you want a minimalist design or a full-fledged masterpiece, our artists take the time to understand your story and style. Come by the studio, chat, and let’s make your first ink experience memorable.
FAQ
It depends on where you get it. Areas with more fat or muscle, like your arms or thighs, hurt less than bony spots such as ribs or ankles. Most people describe the pain as a scratchy or buzzing feeling rather than something unbearable. It’s more uncomfortable than painful. Once the artist starts and you get used to the rhythm, it feels much easier to handle. Breathing steadily and staying relaxed also helps a lot.
Start with what you care about. Think about the things you want to remember, believe, or have in mind. Then look into tattoo designs that go with those ideas. Don’t jump into trends too quickly. A good tattoo artist can help you make your idea into something unique. If you’re not sure what to do, start small with a design you’re used to. After you figure out what style fits you best, you can always add to it.
It usually takes two to four weeks for tattoos to heal on the outside. It can take a little longer for them to fully heal under the skin. During this time, take care of your tattoo the right way. Keep it clean, use light moisturiser, and don’t pick at the scabs. Until it’s fully healed, don’t swim or put it in direct sunlight. Listen to your artist and be patient. Everyone’s skin heals at a different rate. It will stay sharp and brighter longer if you take better care of it.
Eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before your appointment. This keeps your energy level steady and keeps you from getting dizzy. Stay away from painkillers and alcohol that thin the blood. Wear clothes that are easy to move around in and are comfortable. If the meeting lasts a long time, bring a snack or a bottle of water. Most importantly, take it easy. When getting a tattoo, being calm will make the process go more smoothly.
Poor aftercare can cause infections, colour fading, or patchy healing. Your tattoo might lose its sharpness or brightness if it’s not cared for correctly. Tattoo aftercare is simple but essential. Clean the area gently, moisturise with a fragrance-free lotion, and protect it from sunlight and water until it heals. Think of it as the final step in the art process. You’ve spent time and money getting that tattoo—taking care of it ensures it looks beautiful for years.
