Tattoos are more than just ink being deposited into the skin. They can be a huge reflection of who we are, where we have been, and the memories we have made along the way. Whether you’re new to tattoos or you’re adding to your perfectly curated collection of ink, there are some things that are often overlooked when preparing for your appointment. Our skin is our largest organ, and we are made up of lots of water as a whole being. When we connect those pieces of info together we realize that as humans living in bodies, we need water- and that includes our skin!

drink water- your tattoo artist will thank you.

Come Prepared

Before stepping into the tattoo studio, hydration plays a pivotal role. Drinking plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment helps your skin stay healthy and hydrated. Hydration from within assists in maintaining skin elasticity, making it easier for the tattoo artist to work on your canvas. Well-hydrated skin tends to be more supple and less prone to damage during the tattooing process, resulting in better ink retention and a smoother healing experience. It’s important to also have plenty of electrolytes in your system to prepare for the “trauma” so to speak that your body is going to receive during your session.

During the Session

As the body undergoes any painful situation for an extended period of time, it typically will begin to sweat, even if you feel at ease or have done it many times before. We learned in 5th grade PE while we begrudgingly ran those miles outside that sweating removes important electrolytes, minerals, and other things that we need for maintaining hydration and feeling good. No tattoo artist wants their client uncomfortable or passing out, and we’re sure no one wants to be *that* client after they sit up from their tattoo. (Keep in mind though, your artist should be understanding and know how to help and/or mitigate these situations!) Pregame with some electrolytes, and sip on them throughout your appointment to stay hydrated.

Sweat it Out

Just remember to replace it!

Post-Tattoo Care

Once the tattoo is complete, proper aftercare is crucial for helping your new art heal to its full potential. Hydration remains a key player in this phase as well. Your body is working hard to repair the skin and lock in the ink. Drinking water aids in the regeneration process, helping along the building blocks of a strong protective barrier of skin over the tattooed area.

Maintaining stellar hydration levels post-tattoo also helps prevent excessive scabbing and as a side effect, you will have less itchiness. Dry skin can cause discomfort and potentially impact the quality of the healed tattoo. By keeping yourself optimally hydrated, you are supporting your body's natural healing mechanisms, promoting faster recovery, and allowing the ink to fully settle and be as bold as we hope they heal.

Some Pro Tips for Optimal Hydration:

Water, Water, Water: Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day, especially before and after your tattoo appointment. Be sure to maintain your electrolyte levels too and not flush it out fully!
Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: These beverages can contribute to dehydration, so try to limit your intake of these before and after your tattoo session.
Moisturize: In addition to internal hydration, regularly apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the tattooed area hydrated externally. Always apply your SPF to keep those tattoos nice and dark over time as well!
Listen to Your Body: If you feel thirsty, don't ignore it! Take sips of water frequently throughout the day.

The journey of getting a tattoo involves more than just the artistic process- it's a commitment to caring for and loving your body. Staying hydrated before, during, and after your tattoo not only enhances the tattoo experience, but also promotes better healing and long-term vibrancy of your masterpiece. Drink up and thank us later! We know your tattoo artist will.

If you’re in the Scottsdale area and are looking to add some new ink to your collection, book with one of our artists today! They’d love to take care of you.

We hope you enjoyed this blog by Lanna of Bold Beauty Company. See you next time!