Getting your first tattoo is exciting — and a little nerve-wracking. Whether it's something small or a big piece, eating right, staying hydrated, and dressing comfortably makes it a smooth experience and one you'll never forget (for the right reasons). Here's how to prep before you come see me.
Real Talk from Mike: The difference between a great tattoo session and a rough one often comes down to preparation. I've seen people pass out, get shaky, or struggle through sessions — and 9 times out of 10, it's because they didn't prepare their body properly. Let's make sure you're in that other 1 out of 10.
■ 1. Eat Before You Come
Don't show up on an empty stomach. Eat a solid meal — something with protein and carbs — about an hour or two before your appointment. This keeps your blood sugar stable and helps you feel steady during the tattoo.
I've had clients who skipped breakfast, thought they'd be fine, and then halfway through the session, they're sweating, shaking, and looking pale. Not fun for them, and definitely slows things down.
Good Pre-Tattoo Meal Ideas:
- 🍳 Eggs and toast – Protein + carbs = stable energy
- 🥪 Sandwich with chicken or turkey – Filling and balanced
- 🍝 Pasta with protein – Long-lasting fuel
- 🥣 Oatmeal with nuts – Slow-burning energy
- 🥑 Avocado toast with eggs – Healthy fats and protein
What to avoid: Heavy, greasy food that'll make you feel sluggish, and definitely don't come in hungry thinking "I'll grab something after." You need that fuel before the needle touches your skin.
■ 2. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water before and after. Good hydration keeps your skin in better condition and helps the healing process. It's one of those simple things that makes a real difference.
I can always tell when someone comes in dehydrated — their skin doesn't take the ink as smoothly, and they tend to feel more lightheaded during the session.
💧 Hydration Tips:
- Start hydrating the day before your appointment
- Bring a water bottle to sip during the session
- Keep drinking water for days after — it helps healing
- Avoid excessive caffeine before (it dehydrates you)
■ 3. Avoid Alcohol or Painkillers
Skip drinking the night before. Alcohol thins your blood, which makes you bleed more and can affect how the ink sits in your skin. Same goes for aspirin or ibuprofen — they're blood thinners too.
I've had people show up hungover or after taking painkillers "to prepare," and it always backfires. You bleed more, the session takes longer, and the ink doesn't settle as cleanly.
⚠️ What NOT to Take Before Getting Tattooed:
- ❌ Alcohol (24 hours before minimum)
- ❌ Aspirin or ibuprofen (blood thinners)
- ❌ Energy drinks (make you jittery)
- ❌ Recreational substances (seriously, don't)
If you're on prescription blood thinners or have a medical condition, let me know ahead of time so we can plan accordingly.
■ 4. Dress Comfortably
Wear something that gives easy access to the area being tattooed and that you don't mind getting a little ink on.
If you're getting your shoulder done, wear a tank top or something sleeveless. Leg tattoo? Shorts. You get the idea. And yeah, there might be a bit of ink transfer or ointment on your clothes afterward — it happens.
Clothing Guide by Placement:
- 👕 Upper arm/shoulder: Tank top or loose t-shirt
- 👖 Leg/thigh: Shorts (even in winter)
- 🎽 Ribs/torso: Something you can easily lift or remove
- 👗 Back: Button-up shirt or sports bra
- 🧥 General rule: Loose, comfortable, dark colors
■ 5. Bring Something to Keep You Busy
Headphones, music, or a show on your phone can help you relax — especially if it's your first time under the needle.
Some people like to talk, some prefer to zone out. Either way is fine with me. I've had clients binge Netflix shows, listen to podcasts, or just chat about life. Whatever helps you stay calm and comfortable.
What to Bring to Your Session:
- 🎧 Headphones and a playlist
- 📱 Fully charged phone (or bring a charger)
- 🍫 Snacks (granola bars, candy, etc.)
- 💧 Water bottle
- 📖 Book or something to read (if you prefer)
- 🧴 Hand sanitizer (never hurts)
■ 6. Don't Overthink It
Trust your artist. At House of Pain Tattoos, we'll walk you through everything, from setup to aftercare. All you need to do is relax, breathe, and let the process happen.
I've done this thousands of times. You're in good hands.
Mike's Final Word: The anticipation is always worse than the actual tattoo. I promise you'll walk out thinking, "That wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be." And then you'll probably want another one. They're addictive like that.
Need Some Inspiration for Your First Piece?
Come see us at House of Pain Tattoos, 1063 Brown Street, Moose Jaw. DM or call 306-313-5307 to book your session.
Ready for Your First Tattoo?
Book a free consultation at House of Pain Tattoos. I'll walk you through the whole process and make sure you're 100% comfortable before we start.
— Mike Kuntz
House of Pain Tattoos, Moose Jaw, SK