What To Expect When Getting a Tattoo in Philadelphia

Getting a tattoo for the first time is an exciting adventure for those individuals. However, many have questions about what they should expect while getting a tattoo in Philadelphia or elsewhere. There are some excellent Philadelphia tattoo shops that each have different pros and cons to consider.

Read on to get some expert guidance on going through the tattoo process to familiarize yourself with the general procedure.

Take Time To Seriously Consider Where To Place Your Tattoo

It is crucial to carefully consider where on the body to place your desired tattoo. Some will want more tattoos in the future and prefer a larger design. Others will opt for a smaller version to keep the design hidden when needed such as at work or in school.

Think About Your Current and/or Future Work Environment

Many professions require a more formal business style that does not include visible tattoos or other body piercing or artwork. It is essential that individuals find out what their employer’s dress code requirements are before getting inked in a visible and/or very prominent place. Smaller tattoos can often be hidden with clothing when desired.

How Much Pain Do You Think You Can Handle During Tattoo Session/Sessions?

There is some discomfort while getting a tattoo, but every tattoo session is different, and people tend to have differing pain level thresholds too. Bony areas with less flesh, such as the tops of feet, wrists or neck tend to sting more than tattoos placed in fleshier body regions.

Put Thought Into How The Tattoo Will Look As You Age

It is also important to consider how the tattoo may look as you become older or gain weight. Aging and changing body weight can distort tattoos as they stretch and/or sag.

Size Of Your Intended Tattoo May Limit Its Placement Options

Obviously, tattoos on the wrist will be smaller in size than one placed on the upper back or thigh.

 

Selecting Your Ideal Tattoo Design

Plan to spend a lot of time considering your ideal tattoo design. This is something that should be highly personal to you and shouldn’t be done for someone else’s desires.

Determine Size of Your Intended Tattoo Design

Be sure to determine what size you would like your tattoo to be and consider the placement area to ensure the right fit and appearance.

Choose Your Favorite Tattoo Type

Tattoo designs come in a stunning array of different styles and types.

Some of the most popular tattoo types include:

• American Traditional
• Neo-Traditional
• Traditional Japanese
• Geometric or Minimalism
• Realism
• Illustrative Design
• Animal Tattoos
• Portrait Style Tattoos
• Word Tattoos
• Floral or Nature Tattoos
• Tribal Style Tattoos
• Name or Favorite Saying Tattoos

 

Select Your Tattoo Ink Colors or Pick Black & White

Remember to factor in your skin color and tone before choosing colors or sticking with black and white. Darker skin tones tend to hold darker hues better than their fair-skinned counterparts. Fair skin individuals show white ink better.

There are several methods of shading and outlining that differs with each tattoo artist and their skills. It is possible to mix up design elements to get a custom look.

Note: Consult with Your Chosen Tattoo Artist Before Making Your Final Choice

 

How To Find Your Tattoo Artist

Find reputable tattoo artists by inserting “local tattoo shops near me” into an Internet search bar.

Review these helpful tips:

Do Your Homework Through Careful Research

Inquire About Overall Costs & Payment Options

Most tattoo shops expect cash-only payments that are paid beforehand. A deposit may also apply that is often non-refundable.

Get Recommendations from Friends & Acquaintances with Tattoos

Plan to Visit the Shop in Person

The setting should be clean and professional. Inquire about their sterilization and cleaning processes. There have been cases of diseases being transmitted during a tattoo or afterward that usually occur in unclean environments or due to the client not following after-care instructions.

 

Key Things To Look For In A Potential Tattoo Artist

Top-Quality Tattoo Design Work & Variety of Design Styles

Seeing is believing, so review the artist’s past work photos or see them in person if possible. Look for designs that are vibrant and crisply defined.

Consider the Personality & Work Style of Your Tattoo Artist

Make sure that you feel comfortable with your tattoo artist beforehand to lower those normal jitters.

 

Preparing For Your Tattoo Appointment

Always be early or at least on time.

Estimate Your Expected Tattoo Session Time Length

Session time is determined by:

• Work Speed of Chosen Tattoo Artist
• Size & Location Placement of Tattoo
• How Intricate or Complex Tattoo Is
• Total Number of Color Swaps per Session
• Number of Breaks You Will Need During Appointment

 

Professional Tattoo Artist Tips To Prepare For Session

Determine Dos & Don’ts

 

Dos

1. Take Your Time Choosing Your Tattoo Design & Tattoo Artist

Make sure your design is truly something you want and bring in several photos or drawings to your consultation to ensure everyone is on the same page.

2. Make Sure Artist Has Proper Licenses etc.

3. Find Out Privacy Options in Shop Beforehand

Some tattoos require a larger exposure of typically private body parts. Determine whether the shop has privacy rooms or screens and wear clothing that can be removed easily.

4. Get Enough Sleep Night Before Session & Eat Something Beforehand

5. Shower & Wear Loose Comfortable Clothing

• The area of the tattoo will be shaved. Follow prep instructions.
• You will need to expose the tattoo body area so dress accordingly.

6. Bring Someone Along & Consider Distraction Items

Bring along music and earbuds or have a friend accompany you as a distraction measure.

7. Review & Follow After Care Instructions

8. Plan to Tip Your Artist & Bring Cash

 

Don’ts

1. Don’t Make Spur of the Moment Design Decision

2. Don’t Take Aspirin or Other Blook Thinner Medications Unless Cleared

3. Avoid Alcohol, Wearing Perfume & Getting Sunburned Before Session

4. Stay Away from Ingesting Garlic & Other Items Prior to Appointment

 

Conclusion

Above all, a tattoo is something that should be very personal as it is a permanent work of art that is intended to remain on the person’s skin for a lifetime. Get in touch online or call (215)-638-1601 for details.