What To Do Before Getting a Tattoo: How To Numb Your Skin for the Pain

What To Do Before Getting a Tattoo: How To Numb Your Skin for the Pain

Tattoos are a form of art that can be incredibly meaningful and beautiful.

They're also permanent; when you get inked, it's for life. This is why it's so important to do your research before you go into the tattoo parlor. You need to know what an artist is going to do before they start working on you- how long will it take? What costs will there be? How much pain will I feel? And, most importantly, what should I ask my tattooist about beforehand? It may not seem like something obvious or necessary at first glance, but making sure your skin is ready for the needle is one of the best things you can do before getting a tattoo.

What to do before getting a tattoo

The first step you should take before getting a tattoo is to find a reputable artist. The best way to find a great tattoo artist is through a referral from a friend or an online search.  Once you find an artist, tell them exactly what kind of tattoo you want and where on your body. It may be helpful to show the artist a picture, but make sure you describe what you like about it so that they can give you their own interpretation.

You can also expect artists to take some time to draw what they'll be working on so you know the color palette and the kind of design they'll be using for your tattoo. It's important to set expectations right from the start so you know how long the session will take, what kind of areas on your body you'll be getting done, and how much you'll need to pay.

Choosing your design

tattoo design from the artist

 

The next step is choosing the design that will go onto your skin. Will you go with a word, an image, or another symbol? What do you want written on your skin? Do you have a picture in mind for the tattoo- if so, show it to your artist so they can get started right away. Whatever tattoo you choose, make sure that not only is it meaningful to you but also fits with the area of your body you're getting tattooed.

Prepping for a tattoo

Once you've found an artist, chosen a design, and discussed what to expect from the process, it's time to prepare for the actual tattoo session. One of the most important things you can do before getting a tattoo- especially if it's your first one- is to make sure your skin is numbed. Your tattoo artist should have numbing cream or spray, which you will apply before the session starts. The best part about numbing cream is that it doesn't rub off like some numbing sprays, and the only side effect is that you'll feel a slight tingle.

artist prepping for the tattoo work

 

Numbing your skin before getting tattooed significantly reduces pain during the process as well as the amount of bleeding. It's such an easy way to make getting inked much more comfortable for yourself! Just make sure you talk about numbing cream with your artist before you get started.

What to do on your tattoo session

When your artist is ready to start working on you, make sure they take their time drawing the placement of the design as well as tracing it onto your skin. There's no need for them to rush or be sloppy- if they take their time now, it will make the overall tattoo session much more enjoyable.

If you feel a lot of pain during the tattoo session, then let your tattooist know. They can give you more numbing cream or spray, which will help reduce the discomfort and bleeding so that you can relax and enjoy yourself. Once your artist is done with the outline of the tattoo, they might ask if you want to take a short break. Take some time to stretch your muscles, eat some snacks, and drink lots of water. It's important not to get dehydrated during the tattoo session because you're more likely to feel faint or get lightheaded- especially if you're having multiple parts of your body done at once.

During the actual tattooing process, try your best to sit still and not fidget. It's normal if you feel some itching or tugging on your skin, but it's important not to scratch at the drawing. That will only prolong the tattoo session- and make for a more uncomfortable experience overall.

tattoo artist working on client's skin

 

Once your tattoo is finished, congratulate your artist! They've done an amazing job and you're ready to show it off. Be sure to follow the tattoo aftercare instructions so your tattoo heals properly and it will look as good as new in no time!

What you should ask a tattoo artist before they start working on you

Before they begin working, you should ask the artist if they have numbing cream or spray to use on your skin. If they do, then that's great! Make sure that the numbing agent comes in contact with your skin before they start working- either 90 minutes before or when you're in the room with them.

If it is your first time getting a tattoo, make sure that you're aware of what to expect from the process. Ask about the type of tattooing process and how long it will take- this includes knowing what areas of your body are being worked on and how much it will cost. Now is also the time to think about what design you want- be specific about what you want written or drawn on your skin.  You should also ask if your artist is willing and able to do the kind of tattoo you want and if they specialize in that area.

Final thoughts

couple showing their tattoos

 

Getting a tattoo can be exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time because it's such an irreversible decision. However, having some knowledge about what to expect from the process will help make getting inked much more manageable. Be sure to talk to your artist about numbing cream- it's an excellent pain reliever if you're concerned about the tattoo hurting too much!

Now there is a new way to get your tattoo done without feeling any pain at all! Painless Tattoo numbing cream will help you relax and enjoy the process of getting inked. It's easy to apply and works fast so you can start enjoying your new ink right away!

Get your next tattoo with our highly effective numbing cream and experience the best possible outcome when getting a new piece of art on your body!