Your body is your temple. So, it only makes sense that you want to make it uniquely your own. Some of us, myself included, like to stamp our bodies with different calligraphic art, symbols, and messages. A way to tell our story. Where we’ve been, what means something to us. In speaking to various tattoo artists throughout the last year in search of my own ‘story’ to tell, I’ve learned that many of us have begun experimenting with tattoos. With that being said, here are some pieces of advice for you before you get your first, or even your next, tattoo.
Budget
How much are you willing to spend? Between the cost for the actual session (multiple sessions depending on the size of the tattoo) and the post-tattoo care treatment (more on that later), you can quickly blow past your budget. Shop around for prices, compare works of artists and see what they’re charging. I’m sure you know someone who has a tattoo, ask them. Be mindful of the prices relative to the size of the tattoo as that is typically an indicator of cost. Look into the post care creams and ointments as those can be expensive especially if you have particularly sensitive skin. All to say have something in mind before you walk into a shop and strap yourself in for the next several hours.
Your Story
Every gent has a relationship with the person who cuts their hair. Typically, that relationship is premised on the knowledge that the artist (let’s call them what they really are) won’t just cut your hair until they’ve understood what you want, what you’re comfortable with, etc. Similarly, the first question a tattoo artist will (and should) ask you, is what story are you trying to tell. What message do you want your pieces to reflect about you? How do we get your persona reflected in static format on your skin? These are questions you should be able to answer. Maybe you want to show appreciation for a loved one. Perhaps you want to reflect the important moments of your life down your arm. Or maybe, you just want an assortment of randomness. All are good stories because they are your stories. But knowing your stories will ensure that when you go back (It’s quite addictive), your art will tell that story as clearly as possible.
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Placement
Firstly, you want to be mindful of your place of employment. I’m all for individual expression, I have a half sleeve after all and working towards a full sleeve. I can tell you to be the rebel who doesn’t care what people think but that won’t help you. The truth is people judge and the people you spend most of your days with will as well. Maybe you’re in a client facing role, or you routinely give presentations and want to present a certain image? Whatever the case may be, just put a little extra thought into that neck tat first. Secondly, physical changes to your body and weight. Whether you are in the midst of significant weight loss or about to be, you want to be mindful of how your tattoo may look on your post transformation body. On the opposite end, if you’re looking to bulk up in a serious way, you may want to think about how the tattoo will stretch across your skin. Lastly, you want to be mindful of where you start or place your tattoo. If you want a sleeve, start at the shoulder and work your way down for example.
The Artist
The partnership you cultivate with your artist cannot be emphasized more. They are literally going to spend countless hours poking your body with a micro-needle. Do your research. Find an artist you resonate with. Look through their body of work to find similarities to what you envision for yourself. Reach out and speak to them (some charge consultation fees so be mindful). Some people get multiple artists to do work. While there isn’t anything wrong with that, be mindful your tattoos may appear stylistically different. If you can maintain a relationship with your artist (like you do your barber), it gets you a step closer to getting the results you wanted.
Post-Care
Alright gentlemen, listen up. I know some of you don’t like putting on sunscreen or moisturizer. But you’re going to have to get used to creams if you want that fresh sexy tat to stay fresh and sexy. Make sure you get yourself specific post tat cream. For the larger pieces you want to pay extra attention as there’s a lot more surface to cover. You shouldn’t expose the tatted area to the sun and if you must then use extra sunscreen. Peeling is perfectly normal, don’t pick at it. Just let the skin naturally fall off. Finally, don’t be alarmed if you still notice fading. Humans shed skin (surprise!) and it’s only natural that the tattoo won’t be as vibrant as it once was. Speak to your artist as you may need to go in for a touch up after the first 6 months and then on some scheduled basis thereafter (could be every few years).
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Tattoos are amazing, they’re fun, and can give you a sense of excitement. But they’re also painful. No matter what you think your pain threshold to be, there are some spots (anything with mostly bone) that just sting a little more. Put some thought into splitting up your session if necessary and perhaps getting a numbing cream of some kind. Otherwise, do your homework and go tell the world your story.
