In our latest series, Inked Identity, we highlight the stories, journeys, and artistry behind the world of body modification via tattooing—a beauty ritual that transcends cultures and aesthetics. Join us as we discover the transformative power of this growing movement.
Last month, Reflect Beauty sat down with tattoo and mixed media artist Chloe Malay (@pokedbyclo) to discuss everything from intention setting to tattoo parties. Here, we ask the Psychedelic Botanical tattoo artist for her tips on the best tattoo appointment. This is what she had to say.
[SEE ALSO: Inked Identity: 5 Minutes With Chloe Malay]
- Do Your Research
Be sure to choose an artist you’re fully comfortable with and can be transparent about your feelings with. Never feel pressured to go with the first design or even the first stencil on your skin. It’s your body and at the end of the day your decision on what goes on it!
Also respect yourself and if you need more time to think about it then communicate that. Respect any of the artist’s policies/fees with that and educate yourself on them before booking so there are no surprises.
- Eat and Hydrate
Maintain a good diet and drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment. Tattoos on an empty stomach can lead to them feeling more painful and experiencing lightheadedness resulting in passing out—especially with nerves/adrenaline in the mix or having it done and getting up too fast after.
Hydration plays a big role in your overall skin hygiene and body reaction to the needle. If you’re dry, it’ll be harder for the needle and ink to deposit into the skin which may make it more difficult for your artist to tattoo you with little irritation to your skin.
- Moisturize!
Moisturize your skin in the days leading up to your tattoo because like I said, dry skin is a no no. It’ll hurt your body and your artist’s brain.
- Avoid Drinking
Alcohol is a blood thinner and if you bleed easier/more during your tattoo the blood and plasma will push out any ink the needles trying to deposit into the skin creating more irritation to the epidermis.
- Aftercare Is Everything
Follow the specific aftercare instructions of your artist, even if you have 30 tattoos. If you have a new artist follow their instructions for their tattoo. Every artist does things slightly different and certain methods may not be compatible with their tattooing.
- No Post-Tat Vacations!
For God’s Sake do not go on vacation until your tattoo is fully healed! No oceans, rivers, pools, hot tubs, beaming sunlight, tanning—no, no, no.
And when it is fully healed, wear sunscreen! The sun without protection will age your tattoo like milk. It’ll look muddy and any color will be dull and washed out.
Have you gotten a tattoo? What was your experience? Let us know in the comments below!
