SELF CARE STRATEGY: 1/2/3

Mindset is important for basically everything we do in life. And taking care of yourself before and after a tattoo is respecting yourself and the process. This isn’t a cute little sticker that we can just slap on and immediately forget about. We can’t forget that this is an alteration to your the largest organ of your body and a barrier keeping you safe.

So here’s my tips on how to get the best outcome! (For both of us)

1) BEFORE THE TATTOO- Remember that your skin is the canvas, and we want it hydrated, in good condition and ready for the needles and ink.

-Skin care is key! The month leading up to your appointment lotion, exfoliate, and lotion again. A crusty dry alligator leg isn’t going to be easy for the needles to have to work through.

-Good sleep schedule will have your energy and strength maximized to make it through the session.

-Drink water, hydrate your body and mind. Eat a hearty meal before your appointment. Feel free to bring a lunch/snack with you.

-Also consider if the area has a lot of hair, it needs to be shaved. I do have razors which I can shave the spot, however if its thick and course consider doing it yourself the morning, or night before the appointment.

Compromised Skin

This is big. I can’t tattoo the location if its already dealing with a problem. Your tattoo site needs to healthy and in a condition capable of handling this process.

-bruises, eczema, sun damage, scratches, unhealed scarring are all scenarios where I will have to postpone your appointment. No exceptions. Refer to my policy section.

Also consider if you’ve had any type of surgery, antibiotics, or health crisis- consider speaking with your doctor as to when its safe to get tattooed. Under the body modification regulations its my responsibility to make sure you are safe, healthy and ready to proceed with me for this type of personal service. Again respect your health & the process.

2) DURING THE TATTOO:

Bring anything you need to be comfy! Especially for longer sessions, personally, I bring everything I need to spend the day. I will bring a big comfy sweater or shawl to be warm and cozy, phone charger, headphones and my devices to watch stuff, listen to podcasts or just zone out. 

I will absolutely chit chat with you and we can share stories! But keep in mind, depending on the design I may be in FULL Concentration mode. I may not be very talkative, or at times I wear noise cancelling headphones, or have a podcast playing so I can zone out and work. 

Bringing entertainment is a good way to pass the time.

Movement- scratching your head, shifting your weight, using your phone translates to micro movements that can affect the stability of the area I’m tattooing. The more still and relaxed you are the better I can get quality lines or precise work in. 

3) AFTERCARE:

Think about it! You’ve been stewing on this idea, inspiration, design concept for so long, gathering pictures, deciding on an artist, waiting for the consultation, waiting for the tattoo appointment…don’t screw it up at the finish line. 

Take the time to heal.

To ensure best outcomes you want to avoid various activities which can compromise healing.

Don’t be going out and doing gross stuff with your new wound. Trust me I’ve heard all kinds of crazy stories from other artists about bad healing mistakes clients made after leaving the studio. 

Remember this is a wound, we have opened up your skin which is a barrier the body has to keep you safe from bacteria and viruses. Take this time to heal, relax, and go inward.

-3-5 days no heavy exercise/sweating 

Don’t be rolling around at the dirty public gym, soaking or submerging or heavily sweating, i can list 1000 other things that can compromise your healing. 

-2 weeks no submerging your tattoo/soaking/ steaming. 

Opening up your pores further when the ink isn’t settled and healed, or letting the wound soak open allowing pathogens into your body. All bad news.

-4-6 weeks till you can apply sunscreen. 

Sun damage is real, the UV rays break down the pigments. Protect your investment. 

We do sell Hart & Hamilton aftercare products at Brass & Bones studio. I’ve used them for years and I like them to heal my own tattoos. 

I also really like Original Unscented Lubriderm and Pears unscented soap if you are wanting to purchase something that can be found at almost any store.

You have many options to heal and care for the tattoo, and I will go through all options with you. 

However if you want an easy one stop shop for all your needs I do recommend these products.