15 Steps on How To Guide Your Clients in Preparing For A Tattoo

If you're a tattoo artist, you've likely spent countless hours discussing aftercare instructions with your clients. However, helping them prepare for the session can significantly impact the outcome. To this end, here's a list of essential tips you should advise your clients on, to ensure they're prepared before they even step foot into your studio.

Here's your essential pre-tattoo preparation guide:

How To Guide Your Clients in Preparing For A Tattoo

#1 Emphasize Hydration

Advise your clients to drink plenty of water before the session. Not only does it help body functions, but it also keeps the skin healthy and more receptive to the ink. Caution against loading up on caffeinated drinks, as this could negatively affect the session.

#2 Discuss Shaving

Remind clients to shave the area they’re getting tattooed. While you have razors and shaving cream ready, it can save time if they do it themselves. However, caution them against cuts or nicks that could delay the tattooing process.

#3 Stress On Skin Cleanliness

Instruct clients to keep their skin clean and exfoliated, especially on the day of their tattoo session. This will ensure a smoother application of the tattoo.

#4 Talk About Skin Care Products

Recommend clients to avoid unnecessary lotions or skin creams on the day of the tattoo, particularly in the areas to be tattooed. Clean skin makes it easier for you to apply the ink directly to their skin.

#5 Advise Against Sunburn

Suggest clients be vigilant about using sunscreen in the weeks leading up to their tattoo appointment. This is to avoid the risks associated with tattooing sunburnt skin, including the possibility of improper healing and uneven ink distribution.

#6 Highlight The Importance of Rest

Encourage clients to get a full night's sleep before the tattoo session. This will make them more comfortable and less likely to fidget during the procedure.

#7 Suggest Eating Beforehand

Let them know the importance of eating before the session to avoid discomfort from hunger. For long sessions, recommend bringing light, non-messy snacks and drinks.

#8 Advise On Appropriate Clothing

Explain that comfortable and accessible clothing can significantly affect their tattoo experience. The easier it is to access the area getting tattooed, the smoother the session will be.

#9 Address Phone Etiquette

Discuss appropriate phone use during the session to minimize distractions. Music via earbuds may be okay, but constant checking of notifications could disrupt the tattoo process.

#10 Enforce A Sober Session

Make it clear that they should arrive sober for the session. Drugs or alcohol can affect their behavior, their ability to make decisions, and the tattooing process itself.

#11 Encourage Questions

Reassure them that it's okay to ask questions about the procedure, the equipment, the aftercare, or the tattoo itself. Their comfort and confidence are key to a successful session.

#12 Educate About Tipping

Although it's optional, remind clients about the custom of tipping. Suggest that they factor this into the overall cost of their tattoo. Many tattoo artists are apprentices and tips make for a great way to keep getting experience.

#13 Discuss Bringing Companions

Let your clients know the protocols about bringing friends for moral support. Discuss the space constraints and the need to avoid disruptions during the session.

#14 Be Flexible With Rescheduling

Assure clients that if necessary, they can reschedule their appointment, but make sure they understand any potential short notice charges.

#15 Remind About Aftercare

Finally, even before the session, start discussing aftercare.

We Make Ink Do More

Paul Park, The Xtreme Team

For the most recent tattoo art made with Xtreme Inks by tattoo artists who are pushing the boundaries of self-expression, check out our Instagram.

For more information on our sets, please take a look at our piece on Xtreme Inks: Artist Collections.