Everything you need to Know before Getting Your First Tattoo

Getting your first tattoo is exciting, pivotal, and life-changing. A coming-of-age rite that doesn’t require an audience. People compared getting their first tattoo to self-awareness, identity recognition, and self-acceptance.

Tattoos in Brisbane are going mainstream. Gone are the stigma, the bad reputation, and the need to hide. People are now getting more, showing a lot, and taking pride of their inks. Tattoos are more than just body art. They are our outward expression and way of immortalisation significant events, people, and thoughts in our lives.

But before you indulge in getting your first tat, here are some pointers to make the first unforgettable, special, and with no regrets!

Find the right tattoo parlour

Find a tattoo parlour with an impeccable reputation. Check out several tattoo parlours in Brisbane – is the place properly sanitised, are the artists skilled and experienced professionals, and ask if they have the required certification and permits. Check if they are using nothing but the equipment. Ask for recommendations. Never choose a tattoo shop for cheap, it usually doesn’t end well.

Find the right tattoo artist

Next, find the right artist. You should be comfortable with the person touching your skin. Ask to see his or her portfolio of designs and jobs done. Match the tattoo you want to the artist’s genre and design specialty. Top considerations for picking your Brisbane tattoo artist are experience, skill, and talent.

Recognise the pain factor

Pain is a non-negotiable aspect of getting a tattoo. There will be pain, and depending on your pain threshold factor, there could be a lot. And no, dousing yourself with alcohol in an effort to dull the pain is hugely discouraged as it will also thin the blood – not a good scenario at a time when you want bleeding at minimal.

Choose the design

Tattoos are permanent, or almost. Erasing a tat is more work, more expensive, and more painful. For first tats, tattoo artists in Brisbane recommend smaller and more basic designs. Know the significance and hidden meaning of the designs and take your time deciding. You can also customise your first tattoo to make it more special.

Consider the placement

Where do you want your tattoo placed? Placing your first tattoo discreetly is encouraged as you might not be comfortable showing it to the world, yet. Many tattoo virgins also want to enjoy their inks privately. Ankles, back, lower back, hip, and the nape are favourite locations for first tattoos.

Learn the after-care essentials

Getting a tattoo is very similar to having a wound. You have to help heal your tattoo. Keep it cleaned and moisturised. Avoid too much exposure to sunlight and water. Leaving the wound in the open will also help speed up the healing process. Ask your tattoo specialist for the after-care basics before you get inked.

Schedule the special day

Avoid getting the tattoo during summer or when you have plans to go to the beach. It is best to have an easy day or two after getting your first tattoo. Eat well and drink a lot of water before heading to the parlour. Also wear comfortable clothes. Having a friend come with you is not a bad idea at all.

Regrets are common, but…

It is very likely for you to have second thoughts about your tattoo. Anything, from the design, the placement to getting inked are reasons for regrets. Tattoo regrets are more common than you think, especially during the healing period. Let it pass, you will love your tat in no time at all.

People will have opinions

Expect people to react, especially those who are close to you. Parents will be shocked, your girlfriend or boyfriend might be horrified! Give them time to get used to the idea of you inked. Some people might think of your tattoo as too big, too tacky, or too bland. Who cares? You love it and it’s your tat! There are more people who will love your tattoo as you do.

Plan for more

This might be your first tattoo, but don’t plan on it to be your last. Tattoo virgins claim to want only one ink, just to mark a very special event or person. Only to be back for more just a few months later. It is a common joke among top Brisbane tattoo artists. As early as your first tattoo, start planning on your second one.