Finally mustered up the courage and inspiration to get your first tattoo? Whether it’s a design that holds special meaning for you or just something that caught your eye, taking the plunge into tattooing is definitely an exciting milestone, even if it comes with a side of nerves and anxiety.

With friends and family weighing in with their opinions—ranging from “it’s super painful” to “I fell asleep during mine”—it seems like everyone has something to say about tattoos.

But instead of getting swayed by the loud and often conflicting voices around you, what you really need is solid information. And what better way to get that than by hearing from a tattoo pro?

In a chat with HT Lifestyle, Varun Saklani, a tattoo artist at Devil’z Tattooz, provided a comprehensive guide for newbies, covering everything from pain levels based on tattoo placement to popular designs and what to do the night before your appointment.

Tattoo spots that are great for beginners

Let's face it, the first thing you should consider before settling on a design is definitely how much it’s going to hurt.

Varun talked about the pain aspect of getting tattoos and mentioned, “It’s wise to steer clear of sensitive spots like the ribs or neck for your first tattoo since those areas can be quite painful. The arm is usually a better choice for beginners because it’s more tolerable. Plus, a lot of people want to flaunt their first tattoo, and placing it somewhere visible can be a great way to remember the experience and kick off your tattoo journey.”

Tattoo appointment to-do list

As you kick off the countdown to your first tattoo, it's crucial to keep some key things in mind, like what the perfect meal looks like and what to steer clear of completely.

Check out the checklist Varun provided:

• First off, make sure you get a solid night’s sleep. Being well-rested will help you stay calm and focused, making the whole tattooing experience go more smoothly. Sleep is just as crucial as any other prep step.
• Stay hydrated. Getting a tattoo requires time and precision, so feeling thirsty during the session isn’t ideal. Bring along some water or a sports drink to keep yourself refreshed.
• Steer clear of alcohol, blood thinners, and other stimulants for at least 48 hours before your appointment. Alcohol can thin your blood, which might interfere with healing. If you’re taking any medications, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor beforehand.
• Don’t forget to have a hearty meal before your session, ideally something filling and rich in carbs. This will help maintain your energy and prevent any dizziness from nerves or low blood sugar. Great choices include rice bowls, protein-packed salads, or hearty meals like sweet potatoes—whatever carb source works best for you!

Perfect design for newcomers

Now that you know what to consider before getting a tattoo, let’s revisit your design. Your first tattoo is definitely thrilling, but it’s important to approach it with caution since it’s permanent. You’ll also want to keep in mind the healing process and pain levels, especially as a newbie.

Varun suggests, “For those getting their first tattoo, I recommend choosing designs that have personal significance or something you connect with. A design can also be chosen just for its visual appeal, and that’s perfectly fine. When it comes to size and detail, starting with something simpler is a good idea. Intricate tattoos take longer to complete, and as a first-timer, it’s beneficial to understand your pain tolerance and how you cope with the overall experience. Once you’re more comfortable with the process, you can dive into more detailed or larger designs.”

Additionally, since it’s your first tattoo, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the different opinions out there. Varun offers some straightforward advice to help you navigate through the noise. He says, “Always talk to your tattoo artist. They have the experience to guide you on what will work best for your ideas. Aim to find a balance between your vision and their professional advice. Try not to involve too many friends or family in the decision-making; too many opinions can create confusion. Remember, this tattoo will be on your body forever, so trust your instincts and the artist to help you make the right choice.”

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