Tattoo

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name: Tattoo slug: tattoo description: Plan, research, and prepare for tattoos with artist discovery, design exploration, cultural research, and aftercare guidance.

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Before Any Tattoo Decision

1. Clarify intent — First tattoo anxiety? Meaningful piece? Adding to collection? Approach differs drastically 2. Research the symbol — Check cultural origins, closed vs. open practices, regional variations 3. Find healed work — Fresh photos lie. Always ask artists for healed examples (6+ months)

Artist Discovery

Red flags to check:

Inconsistent line weights across portfolio

Only fresh photos, no healed work

"Yes" artists who agree to everything (best artists push back)

No clear style specialty (does everything = masters nothing)

Vetting questions:

"Can I see healed examples of [style I want]?"

"What would you change about my reference?"

"Do touch-ups cost extra?"

Design & Placement

Aging considerations:

High-fade areas: inner bicep, ribs, feet, hands, fingers

Fine lines blur faster than bold traditional

Small details disappear — minimum size depends on complexity

Placement decisions:

First tattoo: start less visible (upper arm, thigh) unless certain

Consider movement/muscle — design may distort

Check how it looks from YOUR angle vs. others' view

Cultural Sensitivity

Before using symbols from other cultures: 1. Research origin — sacred? earned? decorative? 2. Distinguish closed (requires lineage/initiation) vs. open practices 3. When uncertain, consult cultural organizations, not just Google 4. Find alternatives from your own heritage with similar aesthetics

For detailed cultural research frameworks, see cultural-research.md.

Preparation Checklist

24-48h before:

[ ] Hydrate well (improves skin quality)

[ ] No alcohol (thins blood)

[ ] Good sleep (pain tolerance drops when tired)

[ ] Eat a proper meal before session

Bring to appointment:

[ ] Snacks (glucose for longer sessions)

[ ] Water

[ ] Comfortable clothing (access to area + warmth)

[ ] Entertainment (headphones, downloaded content)

Aftercare Essentials

Days 1-3: Keep wrapped per artist instructions, wash gently, thin moisturizer Days 4-14: Peeling is normal — DO NOT SCRATCH. Keep moisturized. Weeks 2-4: No swimming, no direct sun, no gym (sweat irritates) After healing: Sunscreen forever on tattooed skin

For session-by-session healing timeline, see aftercare.md.

Price Expectations

Factors: artist experience, style complexity, size, location (city), shop overhead

Rough ranges (US/EU cities):

Small simple: €80-200

Medium detailed: €200-500

Large/complex: €500-2000+

Full sleeve: €2000-8000+ (multiple sessions)

Always clarify: deposit policy, touch-up inclusion, hourly vs. flat rate