Tattoo Experiences: What to Expect on Your First Tattoo Visit

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Hi friends,

If you’ve been thinking about getting your first tattoo, you might be feeling a mix of excitement, nerves, and curiosity. That’s completely normal! Your first experience can be transformative, empowering, and sometimes a little intimidating. Today, I want to walk you through what to expect - physically, emotionally, and practically so you can show up feeling informed, confident, and ready to make your experience your own.

Before Your Appointment

Taking care of your body in the days leading up to your tattoo can make a big difference in how comfortable and smooth your session feels. Eat a solid meal beforehand - your body is working hard during a tattoo, and it doesn’t “understand” what’s happening, so low blood sugar can lead to dizziness or feeling faint. Hydrating well is just as important; drink extra water in the days leading up to your appointment, and using unscented lotion can help keep your skin soft and in the best condition for the tattoo.

By the time you arrive at Inked Lotus, your design will likely already be drawn and ready for the session. Simple tweaks can always be made, and you should feel empowered to ask questions or clarify anything you have questions about. This is about your experience, your body, and your comfort. Getting a tattoo for the first time is an intimate experience. It’s completely normal to feel nervous, excited, or emotional. Take a few deep breaths, notice how your body feels, and give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up.

At the Studio

When you arrive, you’ll fill out some paperwork, including the typical consent forms required for your state or county, and show a valid ID - don’t forget this! Then, you’ll have a chance to see your design, discuss placement, sizing, and any comfort or accessibility needs. Snacks and water are helpful to have, and at Inked Lotus, we provide small snacks and drinks with your service. Many people like to bring headphones to listen to music or an audiobook, it can help you feel calm and present during the session.

This is also the time to ask any questions about the process or make changes to your design, including shading styles or color selection if applicable. Don’t worry about aftercare yet, you’ll go over that after your session. Once you’re ready, your artist will prep your skin by cleaning the area, shaving if needed, and applying the stencil. You’ll have a chance to check the placement and make any final adjustments. Stencils can be moved, and small tweaks can be made up to this point. If you’re getting lettering, double-check the font, readability, and spelling - mistakes at this stage can’t be fixed easily once the tattoo starts.

When the tattoo begins, your positioning will depend on the placement of the design - sitting, lying down, or another comfortable position. Your artist will finish setting up their station (opening needles, pouring ink, etc.) while your stencil dries, giving you a last chance to ask questions or finalize color choices. The tattoo will usually start with a small outline or line test so you can feel how it feels. Sensations vary depending on placement, your body, and your mindset. Some people describe it as a gentle scratching, others as sharper pressure, closer to a bee sting. The first few minutes often feel strongest as your body adjusts, after that, the sensation usually becomes more manageable.

Asking Questions and Setting Boundaries

Ask about the process, tools, inks, or pace of the session- a professional artist will always honor your limits without judgment. You’ll see many tools and bottles on the tray; it’s okay to ask what they are, but just make sure that you don’t touch anything, it’s all sanitized for your safety.

If you need a break at any time, ask for one. Feeling cold, sweaty, dizzy, or shaky can happen, especially if your blood sugar drops. Take a moment, have a drink or a snack, and get your body back in balance. This doesn’t mean you can’t finish your tattoo - it just means you’re listening to your body. It’s always better to pause than risk passing out, which can happen but is preventable. Trust your instincts and ask for support when needed.

After Your Tattoo

Aftercare is key to protect your new tattoo and support proper healing. Every artist has slightly different recommendations, but at Inked Lotus, we generally suggest:

1. Clean: Use Dial antibacterial soap 2-3 times a day.

2. Dry: Pat gently with a clean paper towel, don’t rub.

3. Moisturize: Apply a thin layer of non-petroleum ointment such as Redemption or Hustle Butter until the tattoo reaches the peeling stage.

Once peeling begins (usually days 3-7, but it varies by person, tattoo size, and location), switch to washing 1-2 times per day with Dial soap and apply unscented lotion as needed. Over-moisturizing can interfere with healing and pull ink from the tattoo.

Some flaking, peeling, or slight color changes are normal during healing. If you notice excessive redness, swelling, or pain that doesn’t start to improve within 1-2 days, reach out to your artist. Sending photos is helpful, I know I always ask for them because its a good way to see what the tattoo is looking like, provide suggestions and advice on how to keep your tattoo healthy.

Final Thoughts

Remember that all feelings are valid and that getting a tattoo is a different experience for everyone. Finding an artist or a studio that makes you feel safe and understood is so important. Embrace the process, trust your instincts, and prioritize your comfort. This tattoo is more than just ink on your skin; it’s a personal expression of who you are. By tuning into your body and feelings, using discernment and making sure you take breaks when needed you'll ensure that it becomes a cherished part of your story.

Throughout these pages you will read about a variety of topics and viewpoints. Some will feel personal and others won't resonate at all. 

Remember to keep what feels right. Let the rest go; and always Ink with Intention <3

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