Simple Ways to Make a Tattoo Session Feel Better
It seems that anything worth getting in this world comes with a price. When it comes to tattooing, getting the tattoo you want means having to experience some pain and discomfort. While the painless tattoo may still be possible in the future, you will have to face facts that right now tattoo pain is part of the process.
However, there are a few things you can do to reduce the pain, swelling, and discomfort you feel when getting a tattoo. By following these tips, you can make the process as pain-free as possible.
Eat Well
By eating a good meal before you start each session, your body will have more fuel to stand up to the pain. Effective pain management starts by being healthy and well fed, so you should choose a meal that is not only tasty but offers plenty of slow-burning carbohydrates and protein. Of course, you should not go overboard and eat too much, but eating the right meal can make the tattooing experience more tolerable.
Proper Mindset
If you think the pain from getting a tattoo will be horrible, they you are setting yourself up to feel horrible when the needle is applied to the skin. Instead, you should look at the tattoo pain as akin to the soreness you feel after a good workout. By accepting that pain is part of the process, it helps you to get into the right mindset which improves your pain management.
Stay Sober
While it seems that drinking and tattoo go hand in hand, the truth is that alcohol thins the blood which means you bleed more during the process. The more you bleed, the more discomfort you will feel, especially afterwards. Plus, you certainly do not want alcohol to be part of the decision to get a tattoo, that is one you will really regret.
Drink Water
It’s recommended that you drink plenty of water whether you get a new tattoo or not. However, being fully hydrated means that your skin accepts the inks more readily and the process itself will go a little faster. That translates into feeling less pain when getting a tattoo. So, be sure that you start drinking water at least 12 hours before starting each tattoo session.
Open a Conversation
Talking with the tattoo artist will help pass the time and reduce your awareness of the pain. You’ll not only get to know the artist better they will get to know you as well. However, if the artist is not all that talkative for some reason, ask if you can have a friend in the studio to talk to. A good conversation while getting your tattoo makes the session seem to go faster and you’ll be focused on what you are saying and not on what you are feeling.
You may never experience a painless tattoo, but you can significantly reduce the tattoo pain and discomfort by taking a few simple steps. By doing so, you will get more out of the experience and enjoy the final work without having to suffer as much.
