Recently I got my first tattoo with my sister. Along the way, I learned some lessons about getting a tattoo for the first time.The experience can be extremely anxiety-inducing, but going into it with a clear mind, knowing what you want to get can ease your nerves. It is incredibly important not to rush the decision when you are getting a tattoo; personally, I waited two years until I got mine done just to make sure it was something that I truly wanted. This is a decision to really take seriously, since the tattoo will be on your body for the rest of your life. I would suggest drawing the design on your skin with a sharpie first to see if you actually enjoy the tattoo and the placement of it.
Considering the placement and size of the tattoo is another crucial choice. I chose to keep my tattoo on the smaller side and put it on the outside of my ankle.
The reason I chose this spot is that I wanted to be able to cover it up if I ever needed to in the future. Placement is completely up to a person’s preference and style. More younger people are getting tattoos and, as a result, they are becoming more normalized in society. Therefore, putting a tattoo in a place where it is visible may not be frowned upon; according to the Pew Research Center, 38% of people between the ages of 18-25 report having at least one tattoo, and this number is growing as more college students choose to get tattoos.
Researching tattoo shops is significant in the decision-making process; the credibility of the shop along with the skill of the artists is imperative to the outcome of the tattoo. This will also give you a sense of pricing and knowing how much your specific tattoo will cost, including the artist’s tip. I would suggest calling the tattoo shop ahead of time to make an appointment and discuss the details of getting your tattoo. Don’t be afraid to ask the artists, or the shop, questions!
Most importantly, once you get the tattoo done you should know how to take care of it. The artist will tell you how to clean the tattoo properly and which products to buy. Cleaning your tattoo every day will help the healing process run smoothly.
Be confident in your decision to get a tattoo. Ultimately, it is a piece of art that will be on your body forever and you should love it!