Blog :What you need to know before getting a permanent tattoo

1. Do your research before getting inked?
- Since tattoos are permanent, your tattoo should be something you want on your body for the rest of your life. So, you should do your research and have basic ideas like what design and size you want the tattoo to be.

2. Look at the parlour beforehand and choose a reputable studio or a tattoo artist
- Do proper research while looking for a good tattoo studio or artist. - You should ask about the license of the artist. Check for reviews online, visit the parlour and know of experiences of people who have got inked by that artist at a particular studio. Make sure that you visit the studio beforehand and it is not crowded. The tattoo equipment should be properly sanitized.



3. Get to know your tattoo artist
- It is extremely important to know who you are trusting your body with and you should know your tattoo artist and have conversation with them and feel at ease. Look over the artist's portfolio. Ask your artist as many questions as you'd like and consider their advice, as their guidance can help you in many ways.

4. Know the price or cost of getting inked
- Prices vary depending on the quality of the ink, the size of your tattoo, the quality and experience of the artist, place or area where studio is located.

5. Know your pain tolerance
- Tattoos can be quite painful depending on the size or where you want to get it. Getting tattooed directly over the bone tends to be more painful. You may consider getting a smaller tattoo first if you have a poor pain threshold. If you like it and get a sense of what it is like to get a tattoo, you can then go for the larger tattoo.

6. Take breaks between/ during the sessions
- Just know that if you need some fresh air or a few seconds to reflect on the process, you may request a break from your artist. It is very important to drink some water and freshen up if you have a chance. Doing this will allow your artist to stretch and relax.



7. Get your diet in order before getting inked
- Eat nutritious foods before getting inked. Do not smoke. The food you consume is a natural healer for your tissues. Eating a nutritious meal before your tattoo will also help you have the energy to deal with the physical tiredness that comes with getting inked. Consume food high in Vitamin C and hydrate yourself well. While you're getting inked and your tattoo is healing your body wants to feel revitalized. So drink plenty of water and juices.

8. Avoid Alcohol/ Caffeine and wear comfortable clothes
- It is advisable to avoid alcohol and caffeine 48 to 98 hours before getting inked as it can thin your blood, making the tattoo process more painful. - Also it is important to wear comfortable clothes as you will be in a fixed posture for a long period throughout your tattoo session.

9. Tattoos fade with time
- You should know that a tattoo will not always look the same as the first time you get it. As your skin ages, your tattoo ages with it. Although the ink will never completely disappear, over time your tattoo will begin to fade. When this happens, you will need to visit the tattoo parlour again if you want it to get it retouched.

10. Always follow your after-care directions
- After getting a tattoo, always avoid hitting the gym. Refrain from doing yoga, swimming or stretching for at least two weeks. Always listen carefully to your artist about the aftercare of the tattoo. A tattoo is just like an open wound and that is exactly why it is extremely important to take care of your tattoo properly to avoid getting infections. Keep your tattoo clean, fresh and hydrated.

11. Get a good night's sleep
- You must ensure that you are well rested as your body will be the one to bear the brunt of the tattoo pain. Maintain a regular sleep routine for a week before and after your tattoo session. This will also help your tattoo heal faster.