How Should I Prepare for My First Tattoo Session in San Diego?

Whether you have a scheduled appointment or are planning a walk-in tattoo, getting your first tattoo is a milestone! But don’t just wing it if heading to a San Diego tattoo shop. Proper physical and mental preparation is key to having the best experience and results for your inaugural tattoo.

As a tattoo artist at Remington Tattoo, I’ve guided many first-timers, both by appointment and walk-in. Follow my tips on how to ready yourself:

San Diego Tattoo Parlor Remington Tattoo 

Arrive Early

Try to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time, or when visiting for a walk-in tattoo, to complete any paperwork and consult about the design. This gives us time to get set up and start on time.

Fuel Up Properly

Hydration is key. Drink extra water starting the day before your appointment. Avoid alcohol and caffeine which can dehydrate you and increase nervousness and sensitivity. Bring a large water bottle or hydrating drinks like coconut water or electrolyte beverages. Staying hydrated makes a big difference in your comfort level.

Eat a hearty meal 2-3 hours beforehand with protein, veggies, whole grains and healthy fats to keep you satisfied. Good options include oatmeal with fruit and nuts, eggs with avocado toast, or a turkey sandwich.

Pack snacks like trail mix, fresh or dried fruit, roasted chickpeas, and nutrition bars. Bring something sweet too like honey sticks or dark chocolate to help stabilize blood sugar since getting tattooed burns energy.

Having your body nourished and hydrated beforehand enhances the tattoo experience tremendously. Let me know if you need any other San Diego tattoo preparation tips! I'm happy to provide specific guidance to help first-timers feel ready.

Relax Your Body and Mind

Ease anxiety during the session by consciously relaxing your muscles. Avoid tensing up or clenching hands. Keep your hips open and shoulders down. Breathe deeply and slowly. Request occasional short breaks to stand, stretch and re-center yourself. Staying relaxed enhances the experience.

Understand the Process

I’ll have you fill out paperwork and discuss design details first. Then I’ll shave and disinfect the area, apply a stencil, and get to work! I usually have clients stand up, stretch, and take a short 5-10 minute break every hour or so. This helps you stay comfortable and relaxed. You may feel some irritation afterward - redness, swelling and peeling during healing is normal. I’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions. Avoid sun, swimming, exercise during recovery.

Get Tattooed with Confidence in San Diego

With proper self-care before and during your appointment, you’ll be ready to commemorate a meaningful moment or display your unique self-expression through body art. Let me know if you need any other San Diego tattoo preparation tips! I'm always happy to guide first-timers. You can also check out my related blog post about tattoo aftercare to prepare for the healing process!

Fine Line Tattoo of Swallow on chest