How to Prepare for Your Tattoo Appointment | Tattoos By Charlene

Get ready for your tattoo

Preparing well can make your appointment more comfortable and help us work safely. Please follow any specific instructions given for your design, placement or session length.

The day before

  • Get a good night's rest where possible.
  • Drink water and avoid arriving dehydrated.
  • Avoid sunburn, tanning and irritating the area to be tattooed.
  • Do not shave the area aggressively or exfoliate it if this may cause cuts or irritation; we can discuss preparation if needed.
  • Contact us in advance if the area is injured, inflamed, infected or otherwise changed.

On the day

  • Eat a proper meal before your appointment and bring water and a snack for a longer session if appropriate.
  • Arrive sober. Do not attend under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs.
  • Wear clean, comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the tattoo area and can tolerate a little ink transfer.
  • Bring valid identification and complete all required consent and health forms before treatment.
  • Tell us about allergies, relevant medication, health conditions, fainting history or healing concerns that may affect suitability.
  • Arrive on time and bring only the agreed number of guests.

Medication, numbing products and skin condition

Do not stop prescribed medication for a tattoo without advice from your prescriber. If you use medication that affects bleeding or healing, have a condition that may affect treatment, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are unsure whether tattooing is appropriate for you, discuss it with a qualified healthcare professional and tell us before booking. We may postpone or decline a service if it is not suitable.

Numbing creams and gels are not suitable for every person or every procedure. Tell us before using any product and follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly. Do not apply more than directed or use under occlusion unless the product directions specifically permit it. We may decline a product if it is unsuitable for the planned tattoo.

Design and booking

Make sure you have discussed the approximate size, placement, colour and design direction before the appointment. Significant changes may affect the price or session time. A 50% non-refundable deposit secures an agreed appointment, and the booking is confirmed once payment reflects.

Questions? WhatsApp 071 334 4172. Read our booking guide and tattoo prices.