THE BASSET & HAIR TATTOO CO.

BEFORE YOUR TATTOO

How to prepare for your appointment

A little preparation can make your tattoo appointment much more comfortable and help your artist achieve the best possible result.

1. GET A GOOD NIGHT'S SLEEP

Try to get a good night's sleep before your appointment.

Being well rested can make it easier to sit comfortably and handle a longer tattoo session.

2. EAT BEFORE YOU ARRIVE

Please eat a proper meal before your appointment.

Tattooing can be physically demanding, especially during longer sessions. Eating beforehand can help maintain your energy levels.

If you have a long appointment, bring a few snacks with you.

Good options include:

  • Sandwiches

  • Fruit

  • Cereal/protein bars

  • Crisps

  • Sweets or chocolate

  • Other easy-to-eat snacks

Please let your artist know if you feel faint, unwell or uncomfortable at any point during your appointment.

3. STAY HYDRATED

Drink plenty of water before your appointment and bring a bottle of water with you.

Being well hydrated can help you feel more comfortable during your session.

4. AVOID ALCOHOL

Do not drink alcohol before your tattoo appointment.

Alcohol can affect your body during tattooing and may increase bleeding.

If you arrive at the studio under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs, your artist may refuse to tattoo you and your deposit may be forfeited.

5. AVOID RECREATIONAL DRUGS

Do not attend your appointment under the influence of recreational drugs.

If your artist believes that you are not in a suitable condition to be tattooed, your appointment may be cancelled.

6. BE CAREFUL WITH MEDICATION

If you take regular medication, please make your artist aware of anything that may affect bleeding, clotting, healing or your skin.

Do not stop prescribed medication simply because you are getting a tattoo.

If you are unsure whether a medication affects your suitability for tattooing, speak to your GP or pharmacist before your appointment.

7. MOISTURISE YOUR SKIN

Keeping your skin generally moisturised in the days leading up to your appointment can help keep it in good condition.

However:

Do not apply moisturiser, oils, fake tan or other products immediately before your appointment.

Your artist needs clean, product-free skin to work on.

8. AVOID SUNBURN

Do not get tattooed over sunburnt or badly damaged skin.

Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning before your appointment.

If the area you are due to have tattooed is sunburnt, peeling or damaged, contact the studio before attending.

9. DON'T SHAVE UNLESS YOUR ARTIST ASKS YOU TO

Your artist can shave the area before tattooing where necessary.

If you do shave the area yourself, take care not to cause razor burn, cuts or irritation.

Never arrive with freshly irritated or damaged skin.

10. WEAR THE RIGHT CLOTHING

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that gives your artist easy access to the area being tattooed.

Remember that tattoo ink can occasionally get onto clothing.

For larger tattoos, consider wearing clothing that you don't mind getting ink on.

Examples:

Arm tattoo: vest top or loose T-shirt

Leg tattoo: shorts or loose-fitting trousers

Back tattoo: clothing that can easily expose your back

Chest tattoo: clothing that allows easy access while keeping you comfortable

11. BRING SOMETHING TO KEEP YOU OCCUPIED

For longer appointments, feel free to bring:

  • Headphones

  • Music

  • A tablet

  • A book

  • Something to watch

  • Snacks and drinks

Please make sure whatever you bring doesn't interfere with your artist's ability to work safely.

12. BRING YOUR ID

You may be asked to provide valid photographic identification to confirm your age.

The Basset & Hair Tattoo Co. tattoos clients aged 18 and over.

13. DON'T BOOK OTHER PLANS TOO CLOSE TO YOUR APPOINTMENT

Tattoo appointments can sometimes take longer than expected.

Allow yourself plenty of time and avoid making important plans immediately afterwards.

Don't rush your artist.

A relaxed appointment gives your artist the best opportunity to produce the best possible tattoo.

14. PLEASE ARRIVE CLEAN

Please shower and arrive with clean skin.

Avoid applying:

  • Perfume

  • Aftershave

  • Body oils

  • Fake tan

  • Heavy moisturiser

  • Other products to the area being tattooed