Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but proper preparation can make a huge difference in how comfortable your session is and how well your tattoo heals. Whether you’re getting your first tattoo or adding to your collection, taking care of your body and skin beforehand helps with pain management, endurance, and healing.

This guide covers everything you need to do before your tattoo appointment, from when to start preparing to what you should (and shouldn’t) do the day of your session. Follow these steps, and you’ll set yourself up for the best possible tattoo experience.

How Far Out Should You Start Preparing?

You’ve picked the right tattoo artist and booked an appointment. How early you start preparing for your tattoo depends on the size and detail of your design, your skin type, and your overall health. For large or detailed tattoos, start preparing 2–4 weeks in advance. For smaller tattoos, start preparing a few days in advanced. The better you treat your body leading up to your session, the better your tattoo experience will be. If you have sensitive skin, slow healing, or skin conditions, it’s worth starting preparation a little earlier to give your skin the best chance to heal quickly and hold the ink well.

Preparing for a Tattoo Session

Taking care of your body before your appointment ensures that you stay comfortable during the session and that your tattoo heals properly afterward. Here’s what to do:

• Eat healthy in the weeks leading up to your appointment—nutrient-rich foods help with skin health and healing.
• Moisturize your skin daily before your appointment, but avoid lotion on the day of the tattoo.
• Get a good night’s rest before your session to help with pain tolerance.
• Eat a full meal before your appointment—low blood sugar can make you lightheaded.
• Stay hydrated for better skin elasticity and endurance during the session.
• Be clean and showered before your appointment—this is common courtesy for your artist.
• Bring snacks and water for longer tattoo sessions.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that gives easy access to the tattoo area.
• Bring something to entertain yourself, like a book, podcast, or music.

These simple steps will make your session more comfortable and stress-free.

What Not to Do Before Getting a Tattoo

Certain things can make your tattoo experience more painful, riskier, or harder to heal. Avoid the following:

• Avoid sun exposure & tanning—sunburned skin cannot be tattooed.
• Do not exfoliate the tattoo area—this can make the skin too sensitive.
• Avoid alcohol & drugs for at least 24 hours—both thin the blood and can affect the healing process.
• Skip heavy workouts the day before and the day of—sore muscles can make sitting for a tattoo uncomfortable.
• Do not shave unless instructed—your artist will handle shaving if needed.
• Avoid pain relievers like aspirin or ibuprofen—they can increase bleeding.
• Limit caffeine intake—too much can make you jittery and more sensitive to pain.

By avoiding these things, you’ll ensure that your skin is in the best possible condition for tattooing.

What to Bring to a Tattoo Session

Being prepared with the right items can make your tattoo session much more comfortable, especially if it’s a long one. Here’s what to bring:

• Comfortable clothing – Wear something that gives easy access to the tattoo area and won’t be irritating against fresh ink.
• Water bottle – Staying hydrated helps with endurance and healing.
• Snacks – Great for keeping your energy up during long sessions.
• Books, music, or podcasts – Having entertainment can make the time pass faster.
• Headphones – Useful if you want to listen to something without distractions.
• Phone charger (preferably portable) – Sessions can last for hours, so keep your devices charged.
• A backpack or small bag – To carry all your essentials.
• Something to keep warm – Some studios can be cold, so bring a hoodie or blanket if needed.

Having these essentials will help you stay comfortable and make the experience more enjoyable.

Mental Preparation & Managing Anxiety

It’s normal to feel a little nervous before getting a tattoo, especially if it’s your first time. Here are some ways to stay calm and mentally prepared:

• Remind yourself that tattoo pain is temporary—most people find it manageable.
• Trust your artist—they are professionals who want the best result for you.
• Breathe and relax—staying tense can make the experience harder than it needs to be.
• Avoid overthinking the pain—once the tattoo starts, you’ll likely adjust quickly.
• Distract yourself—listening to music or focusing on your breathing can help.

By staying calm and positive, you’ll make the experience much smoother for yourself.

What to Do Before a Tattoo for Pain

While tattoos do involve some level of discomfort, there are things you can do to make the experience easier:

• Stay hydrated and eat a full meal before your appointment to maintain energy.
• Practice deep breathing to stay relaxed during the session.
• Check with your artist if you want to use numbing cream—some allow it, while others don’t.
• Know that pain is temporary—most people adjust after the first few minutes.

Tattoo pain is rarely as bad as people expect, and your body naturally adapts during the process. By following these steps, you can make your session much more comfortable.

Prepare for Your Next Tattoo With Eternal Devotion