How to Prepare for Your Tattoo Appointment (Especially if You’re Anxious)
How to Prepare for Your Tattoo Appointment (Especially if You’re Anxious)
Tattoos aren’t just a physical process—they can hit every part of your nervous system. Whether you’re excited, anxious, or both, preparation can help things go smoother. This isn’t about being “brave” or “tough.” It’s about setting yourself up for success.
🍳 1. Eat Something Substantial
Low blood sugar is a quick path to dizziness, nausea, and panicked regret. A good meal a couple of hours beforehand makes a big difference. Think protein, not just caffeine.
💧 2. Hydrate Before You Arrive
Hydration helps your skin handle the trauma of tattooing better. Drink water the day before and the day of your appointment—but not so much you’re hopping off the table every 15 minutes.
👕 3. Wear Something That Makes Sense
I get it—you want to look cool. But if I’m tattooing your thigh and you show up in skinny jeans, you’ll be halfway naked for hours. Choose clothes that give easy access to the area getting tattooed and are okay getting stained.
🎧 4. Bring Something to Regulate With
Headphones, fidget items, hard candy, your emotional support hoodie—bring whatever helps you stay grounded. There’s no shame in needing support tools. I’ll never think less of you for taking care of your system.
❓ 5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions (Even “Dumb” Ones)
There are no dumb questions in my chair. If you’re worried about pain, numbing, how long it’ll take, or how to sit—ask. You deserve to know what’s going on. I won’t shame you for wanting clarity.
📝 6. Let Me Know What Helps You Feel Safe
If you need breaks, silence, casual chatting, or zero eye contact—tell me. If you’ve had bad experiences in the past, let me know what not to repeat. You don’t need a trauma history to ask for a safe experience. You just need to be human.
🧍♀️ 7. Show Up Exactly As You Are
You don’t have to be confident. You don’t have to be emotionally regulated. You don’t have to earn your tattoo by acting fine. Show up as yourself, however that looks. That’s more than enough.
Getting tattooed can stir up nerves—and that doesn’t make you weak. With a little prep, a lot of permission, and a tattooer who gets it, it can be empowering instead of overwhelming.