Getting a tattoo can seem very trendy and hip for the moment, but it is a big decision that you should take careful consideration when deciding on. A tattoo is much different than a new hair cut or even a new hair color. It will be literally inked onto your body and will stay on you forever, or at least until you choose to have it painfully removed.
Speak With a Dermatologist
If you are prone to skin allergies, or if you have any issues with your skin such as melanoma, it is important to consult a dermatologist prior to having a tattoo applied. This will help you avoid a serious rash or dangerous reaction to the inks.
Plan to Pay Well
Tattoos of any worth are not cheap. A quality tattoo in a hygienic location applied by a highly trained tattoo artist will have a price tag to match. The cost of the tattoo will start based on the area it will be applied, then the size of the art, and the ink you would like used. Once that price is settled, you will need to ask about the artist fee. The rate charged will vary depending on the tattoo artist. The more skilled and popular they are, the higher their rates will be. Make sure to take a look at the wall art of tattoos and also the pictures of past clients to see if the work matches your desired aesthetic.
Plan on Long Wait Times
Chances are you want to have your tattoo applied by a well known, reliable artist. The most reliable tattoo artist tends to have a long waitlist and if they are popular, that can increase the wait times even more. Walk-ins are not that easy to secure at popular locations, and if you are following the advice of reviews or even your friends, chances are you won’t get an immediate appointment. Take your time, research your desired tattoo parlor and then book your appointment. It is better to wait for the best then to rush and end up with a botched tattoo.
Plan for Discomfort
Getting a tattoo is not a walk in the park, in fact, it is quite painful. The pain is a pinprick, but when that prick is repeated in the same spot, over the course of an hour or more, it can add up. Depending on where the tattoo will be applied, the pain can even increase tenfold. Areas that have less fat and those closer bone hurt more than fatty or muscle areas.
Check the Proof
Nothing is worse than having a fresh tattoo completed only to see that there are spelling mistakes or missing elements. The proof is made on a transferable paper before it is applied to your skin for the tattoo. Check the paper carefully to ensure everything is to your liking before moving forward with the ink.
Plan for Touch Ups
Once your tattoo is complete, chances are you will need a touch-up or two when the color fades. Sometimes the depth of color may fade within the first few months, other times you may need touch-ups years later. Planning in advance for these will help you set your expectations accordingly.
Take Care of Post Care
It is important to follow the aftercare instructions your tattoo artist provides to help protect your skin. This will ensure that your tattoo site doesn’t get infected and that your tattoo looks as good as possible after it heals. For more beauty tips follow our social media accounts for all the updates!
