---
title: How To Prepare for a Tattoo? Here's What I Tell My Clients
description: Learn how to prepare for a tattoo session for the best experience and results, from hydration to choosing the right design and artist.
image: https://tatsbywes.com/hubfs/IMG_1139.jpg
---

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# How To Prepare for a Tattoo? Here's What I Tell My Clients

[Dan "Wes" Wesley](https://tatsbywes.com/blog/author/dan-wes-wesley)  Jun 12, 2025 8:03:36 AM 

 2025-06-12 12:03:36  1749729945962

If you’ve got a tattoo appointment coming up—whether it’s with me or another artist—I want to walk you through what I tell all my clients when they ask, *“How should I prepare for my tattoo?”*

Trust me, a little preparation goes a long way in making sure you have the best experience possible and walk out with a tattoo you’ll love.  Give this video a watch to get some tips on how you can be prepared to get your first tattoo.

### Step 1: Know What You’re Getting—and Where

First things first: make sure you’re 100% sure on your design and where it’s going. You’d be surprised how many people come in not totally confident about what they want. If you’re still feeling unsure, reach out. I’d rather talk it through with you beforehand than have you sitting in the chair second-guessing it.

Also, make sure the artist you’ve chosen ([hopefully me!](https://tatsbywes.com/contact)) matches the style you’re going for. Every artist has their lane—mine happens to be patch-style, bold blackwork, and custom pieces that look like they were stitched into your skin. Pick someone whose work you trust and admire. That alone makes the whole process easier.

### Step 2: Take Care of Your Body

I always tell folks—treat your body like it’s prepping for something big, because it is. A tattoo might be art, but it’s also trauma to the skin. The better shape you’re in, the better your skin responds.

So what does that mean?

Start hydrating a day or two before your session—drink plenty of water and avoid anything dehydrating like caffeine or alcohol. On the day of, eat a decent meal before you come in. I’ve had clients skip breakfast or lunch and end up getting lightheaded halfway through. Don’t be that person. Your body needs fuel to sit through a tattoo.

### ![IMG_1139](https://tatsbywes.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_1139.jpg?width=400&height=300&name=IMG_1139.jpg)Step 3: Avoid the Common Mistakes

Let’s get this out of the way now—**do not** drink alcohol the night before your session, and **don’t take any blood thinners** like aspirin or ibuprofen. These can make you bleed more, which makes my job harder and can affect how the ink sets.

Also, get a full night of sleep before your session. You’ll feel better, handle pain better, and honestly, be a better canvas. It’s easier for both of us when you come in alert and energized.

### Step 4: Dress for the Tattoo You’re Getting

Whatever area you’re getting tattooed, wear something that gives me easy access to it. If it’s your forearm, short sleeves work great. Leg piece? Come in shorts or loose pants. And make sure you’re comfortable. Some sessions last hours, and the last thing you want is stiff denim cutting into your waist the whole time.

### Step 5: Bring What You Need to Stay Comfortable

You’re welcome to bring headphones, a podcast, or a playlist to help pass the time. Some folks like to zone out with music, others like to chat—I’m good either way. If you’re planning to use your phone, make sure it’s fully charged.

If you’re nervous and think having a friend there will help, that’s cool—just check in with me or the studio first, since space can be limited depending on the day.

### ![IMG_8132](https://tatsbywes.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_8132.jpg?width=380&height=507&name=IMG_8132.jpg)Aftercare Starts at the Appointment

Once the tattoo is done, I’ll go over the aftercare instructions with you in detail. We’ll talk about cleaning it, what products to use, and what to avoid while it heals. Healing is just as important as the tattoo itself, so don’t skimp on this part. If you forget something, hit me up—seriously.

Preparing for your tattoo isn’t complicated, but it does matter. Come in rested, hydrated, fed, and mentally ready. Trust your artist, trust the process, and give your skin the care it needs before and after.

I’m looking forward to making something awesome with you. If you like my work, go ahead and book a free design consultation so that we can land on your tattoo design and get you scheduled for a session in the shop!

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