How To Calm Tattoo Anxiety?

3.5 rating based on 152 ratings

Tattoo anxiety can be a challenging and frightening experience, but it is essential to understand the root cause of your fear. Some common causes of tattoo anxiety include fear of pain, which can be particularly prevalent for first-time tattoo patients. To overcome this anxiety, it is crucial to identify the root cause and learn how to ease it.

To calm your nerves before getting a tattoo, it is recommended to eat a protein-rich meal 1. 5 hours before the appointment and stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle for breaks and practice deep, steady breathing exercises.

To cope with tattoo pain, remember the worthiness of getting a tattoo, express your anxiety to your tattooist, start small, and get tattooed with a friend or family member. Take a mild painkiller like ibuprofen or acetaminophen beforehand to reduce the pain to a more bearable level.

Managing anxiety before and during a tattoo involves getting a good night’s sleep, maintaining a positive outlook, not drinking coffee, eating a healthy meal, and drinking plenty of water. Avoid alcohol or painkillers as they can thin blood and make it bleed more.

Being prepared and not being late is also important. Tell your tattoo artist that you might have an anxiety attack and get rest, drink water, and eat a healthy meal. Calm yourself by taking a few deep breaths before the tattoo artist starts drawing.

In summary, understanding the root cause of tattoo anxiety is crucial for overcoming it and achieving a positive experience during the procedure. By following these tips, you can help yourself relax and enjoy the process of getting your first tattoo.

Useful Articles on the Topic
ArticleDescriptionSite
Ultimate Guide on How to Handle Tattoo AnxietyWe tell you how to take care of those first tattoo jitters whether it’s budget concerns, pain panics, parental pressure, or permanence problems.tattoodo.com
What is a good way to calm my nerves before getting …Take a mild painkiller like ibuprofen or acetaminophen beforehand. It reduces the pain to a more bearable level. Speaking from experience.quora.com
Anxiety tips for tattoo appointment? : r/tattooadviceMake sure you eat a good sized meal high in protein maybe an 1.5hr before you arrive, and keep hydrated. That alone will help alleviate some anxiety.reddit.com

📹 How To Deal With Tattoo Anxiety

How To Deal With Tattoo Anxiety – Fear of getting a tattoo can sometimes stop you from really getting what you want, so in this …


What To Do If You Hate Your New Tattoo
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What To Do If You Hate Your New Tattoo?

When faced with dissatisfaction regarding a new tattoo, seeking support from friends or family can provide much-needed perspective. Sharing feelings often aids in processing emotions. It’s crucial to focus on the positive aspects of the tattoo, such as its significance in representing your identity or experiences. Allowing the tattoo to heal for a few weeks before making any decisions is vital; immediate reactions may differ from feelings after it settles. Touch-ups, cover-ups, and laser removal are options to consider if dissatisfaction lingers.

It's common to experience initial regret, particularly with prominent tattoos, since adapting to the permanence of body art can be challenging. If you're unhappy with the tattoo due to flaws or mismatches with expectations, it’s essential to evaluate your feelings after giving it time. If feelings of discontent persist, consult the tattoo artist about your concerns, as they might provide solutions.

It’s crucial to avoid rushing into further tattoos without thorough contemplation. Engaging with a trusted tattoo artist to devise a design that caters to your current situation can prevent potential regrets. Before getting another tattoo, ensure it's a design you genuinely appreciate to avoid creating new regrets.

Furthermore, consulting a dermatologist or your tattoo parlor can be beneficial if you're considering removal or adjustments. Remember that the process of coping with tattoo dissatisfaction is personal and varies. Taking the time to reflect on your feelings after a few weeks can help clarify whether to pursue alterations or adaptations. The key takeaway is to remain patient, prioritize your feelings, and seek professional advice when navigating tattoo-related decisions.

How To Move On From Tattoo Regret
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How To Move On From Tattoo Regret?

Sharing your feelings with friends or support groups can be beneficial when coping with tattoo regret, as discussing regrets often leads to clarity and emotional relief. If a tattoo symbolizes a past self, consider expressing your current identity through various mediums like art, fashion, or new tattoos that better represent who you are now. Changing your mind post-tattoo is normal; studies suggest that over 50% of individuals experience regret. However, there are proactive measures you can take before and after getting inked to mitigate regret and even pursue removal if necessary.

While tattoo regret can stem from impulsive decisions, changing tastes, or life changes, it is important to acknowledge this common sentiment and explore strategies to address it, ranging from acceptance to tattoo removal.

Coping with tattoo regret involves focusing less on your dissatisfaction and more on acceptance. Many people may not critique your tattoo as harshly as you do. Accept the choices of your past self, forgive those decisions, and choose to embrace them rather than dwell in regret. Self-expression is key; you could alter the tattoo, cover it up, or even look into removal techniques, which are becoming more effective with advancing technology.

Psychological distress often accompanies unwanted tattoos; however, it's essential to know there are effective ways to handle such feelings. This guide aims to navigate tattoo regret, offering coping mechanisms and informing you about options to reclaim your skin confidently. It's crucial to learn about tattoo types most commonly regretted and how to lower your risk for future regrets. Engaging in semi-permanent tattoos as a trial run can help you make informed choices without committing permanently.

Moreover, incorporating permanent body art education into health curricula could prevent potential future regrets. By utilizing these strategies and maintaining a positive outlook, you can manage and move past tattoo regret.

What Is A Tattoo Blowout
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Is A Tattoo Blowout?

Tattoo blowouts are a common issue in tattooing, resulting from an artist pressing too hard with the tattooing needle. When this occurs, the ink is injected deeper into the skin than intended, spreading into the fatty layer beneath the top surface where tattoos are normally confined. This misplacement of ink leads to the characteristic blurring seen in blown-out tattoos, making the design appear faded or bleeding outside the intended lines. Tattoo blowouts are often a consequence of the artist's heavy-handedness or lack of experience, causing the needle to penetrate at the wrong angle or depth.

Typically, blowouts become noticeable a few days after the tattoo is done, as ink seeps into the epidermis and underlying fat layer. The result is an ink spread that creates unflattering spots and lines, detracting from the original design's clarity. To mitigate the risk of blowouts, it is advised to select a skilled tattoo artist who can apply the ink with the appropriate pressure and technique. Additionally, it is crucial for clients to remain still during the process and to be aware of areas where the skin may be thinner, which are more susceptible to such issues.

Correcting a tattoo blowout can involve various options, depending on the severity and individual preferences. Techniques may include touch-ups, laser removal, or corrective ink application to refine the design and limit imperfections. Understanding how blowouts occur, their visual indications, and preventive measures can help clients make informed decisions about their tattooing experience.

In summary, a tattoo blowout results when ink spreads improperly beneath the skin, which may be caused by inexperience or excessive force by the tattoo artist. This phenomenon creates a fuzzy appearance that can severely alter the intended tattoo design. Awareness of this issue, along with careful selection of an artist and proper aftercare, can help prevent blowouts and ensure a clearer and more successful tattoo outcome.

Is It Normal To Feel Anxiety After Getting A Tattoo
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Is It Normal To Feel Anxiety After Getting A Tattoo?

Tattoo anxiety is a common phenomenon, marked by feelings of worry, doubt, and unease that can occur after getting a tattoo. While some individuals experience mild concern, others might face intense distress that impacts their overall tattoo experience. Various factors contribute to this anxiety, such as concerns about the cost, fear of pain, and the thought of undergoing the tattoo process itself. Particularly for first-timers, fears surrounding needles or potential pain can amplify anxiety levels.

After getting a tattoo, it's normal to experience mixed emotions; feelings of sadness or low energy can occur as the brain chemically adjusts post-experience. This is akin to the emotional aftereffects of any exciting event. It is not uncommon for individuals to feel anxious or uneasy shortly after getting inked, leading them to question their decision, even if they love the tattoos themselves. If you find yourself in a similar situation, experts advise a few coping mechanisms: allow yourself some time to adjust to the change, and talk to someone about your feelings, since your anxiety is likely tied to multiple factors beyond just the tattoo itself.

Feeling fatigued after the tattooing process is also typical, as both physical and mental exertion can lead to exhaustion. Studies suggest that stress and anxiety can diminish pain modulation, making the tattooing process feel more intense. Interestingly, some people, particularly those grappling with mental health struggles, may choose to get tattoos as a means of exerting control over their narrative.

Another significant aspect is the gender dynamic surrounding tattoo anxiety. Research indicates that women tend to report higher levels of social physique anxiety three weeks post-tattoo compared to men, who report lower levels. Despite this, satisfaction with new tattoos tends to decrease after a few weeks, although many express a likelihood of pursuing future tattoos.

If you find yourself overwhelmed with anxiety, it's essential to approach the situation with self-compassion and patience. It’s perfectly okay to change your mind about a tattoo; surveys reveal that a significant percentage of individuals question their decisions after the fact. Ultimately, while tattoo-related anxiety is common and understandable, it’s crucial to seek support and reflection to navigate these feelings healthily. Give yourself time to adjust, and remember, this anxiety is part of your personal journey with tattoos.

What Do Dermatologists Think Of Tattoos
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Do Dermatologists Think Of Tattoos?

Tattoos are a popular form of self-expression, but there are inherent risks to consider, including potential allergic reactions to ink and skin infections. University of Rochester Medical Center dermatologist Sherrif Ibrahim emphasizes the importance of understanding the permanence of tattoos. Regularly assessing your tattoos for alterations in shape, color, or texture and seeking medical advice from a dermatologist for any irregularities is crucial for skin health. Dr. Mamelak urges that individuals with tattoos should not neglect sun protection or regular skin cancer screenings.

Research indicates that tattoos can offer insights into patients' lives, revealing demographic factors and lifestyle choices, including alcohol consumption and motivations for getting inked. Understanding the risks and complications associated with tattoos is increasingly relevant as their popularity grows. Dermatologists recommend maintaining the health and vibrancy of tattooed skin through proper care.

Tattoo complications can include infections, allergic reactions to pigments, and chronic discomfort, such as itching or pain. While tattoos are known to absorb ultraviolet rays, dermatological studies suggest that having tattoos does not increase the likelihood of skin cancer. However, many dermatologists emphasize avoiding ink on moles or abnormal skin to prevent masking potential health issues, like melanoma.

The risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases through non-sterile tattoo practices is a concern, but professional tattoo artists typically adhere to proper sanitation protocols. A focus on ethical and professional treatment is necessary when engaging with tattoo artists.

Some dermatologists, like Deborah S. Sarnoff, discuss the advantages of tattoos while also highlighting their short- and long-term complications. A notable risk is the possibility of allergic reactions to the ink, which can vary in severity. Regrettably, many individuals may find themselves dissatisfied with their tattoos over time, commonly due to changes in personal taste.

Further studies have highlighted the concern that tattoos might obscure moles and lesions, potentially delaying skin cancer detection. Therefore, assessing any changes in moles that are covered by tattoos is crucial for early intervention. Avoiding ink application near moles or skin abnormalities is generally advised for optimal health outcomes. Ultimately, aspirations to commemorate independence or personal stories through tattoos carry consideration of both their artistic value and associated health risks.

How To Deal With Getting A Bad Tattoo
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How To Deal With Getting A Bad Tattoo?

If you're unhappy with a tattoo, there are several options to consider for fixing or covering it up. One common approach is to return to the original artist and request a cleanup or touch-up. However, if you’re still dissatisfied, you may explore a second option: visiting a different artist for a cover-up. While some artists are willing to fix tattoos made by others, this isn't very common.

Tattoos are meant to be permanent, which can make poor designs or regretful choices burdensome. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to rectify a bad tattoo, ranging from DIY methods to professional help. Here are some possible solutions:

  1. Laser Fading: This method gradually lightens the tattoo, making it easier to cover it with a new design.
  2. Cover-Ups: You can seek a new tattoo design that effectively conceals the old one. Ensure that the artist has a portfolio of successful cover-up work.
  3. Professional Help: Consult tattoo removal specialists or dermatologists for personalized advice on how to manage or erase unwanted ink.
  4. Lifestyle Changes: Wearing clothing that obscures the tattoo allows you to move past the initial regret without making immediate changes.
  5. Learning to Live With It: Sometimes, acceptance can be the best route if the tattoo doesn’t negatively impact your life.

It's vital to acknowledge your feelings about the tattoo and take time to consider the best course of action before deciding. Talk to trusted friends or professionals about your tattoo to gain perspective. Remember that this process doesn’t need to cause prolonged anxiety; you have options to alleviate the discomfort associated with a regrettable tattoo. Whether through touch-ups, cover-ups, or laser treatments, the choices available can help you reclaim your skin.

How Do You Fix A Scared Tattoo
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Do You Fix A Scared Tattoo?

To address tattoo scarring effectively, it is essential to understand both prevention and treatment methods. Scarring can result from improper techniques, such as a tattoo artist piercing the needles too deeply or at incorrect angles, leading to undesirable ink distribution. To minimize the risk of scars after getting a tattoo, consider these approaches:

  1. Choose a Skilled Artist: Ensure your tattoo artist has ample experience and a solid reputation.
  2. Post-Care Routine: After receiving a tattoo, gently cleanse the area with a mild soap, pat it dry, and immediately apply a recommended scar ointment to encourage healing.
  3. Avoid Picking: Resist the urge to pick at your tattoo as it heals to prevent scarring.
  4. Moisturize: Keeping the tattooed area moisturized reduces dryness, helps lessen redness, and enhances the overall appearance.

For existing scars or to improve their appearance, various treatments can be beneficial. Scar-fading ointments like Bio Oil or Mederma may help in diminishing the visibility of scars, while aloe vera is recognized for its skin-healing properties. Moisturizers play a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration around scars. Other options include tattoo touch-ups, makeup for concealing imperfections, and procedures like microdermabrasion.

In cases of severe scarring, dermatological interventions may include anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections, and specialized laser treatments. It's important to note that while scars can fade over time, complete removal is not typically possible; however, their appearance can be significantly reduced through proper care and treatment.

In summary, understanding the causes of tattoo scarring, employing preventive measures, and exploring treatment options can significantly improve the outcome and appearance of your tattoos while keeping your skin healthy.

How Do I Stop Being Anxious For A Tattoo
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Do I Stop Being Anxious For A Tattoo?

To manage pre-tattoo nerves effectively, visualize yourself entering the artist's studio and preparing for the tattoo process. As you imagine the artist at work, pay attention to your body and recognize any tense muscles, then focus on relaxing them while taking deep breaths. This guide aims to help individuals facing tattoo anxiety by identifying its root causes, such as fear of pain, cost, and permanence.

Fear of pain is a common concern, especially for first-timers. If anxiety overwhelms you, it’s advisable to wait instead of rushing into getting inked. Remember, while tattoos can technically be removed, it's simpler and more cost-effective to ensure you are truly committed beforehand. It’s normal to experience jitters; however, understanding and addressing your worries can significantly alleviate anxiety.

To calm your pre-tattoo nerves, consider these four helpful tips from Adrenaline Studios in Greater Vancouver and Toronto. Recognize what specifically frightens you. If pain is a concern, explore options like numbing creams. Many individuals overthink their first tattoo, leading to heightened anxiety, but it doesn't have to be daunting. Several strategies can help ease your nerves as you head to the studio.

Engage in mindfulness by accepting that feelings of anxiety are temporary. Acknowledge your emotions, take ownership, and remind yourself of the reason you're getting the tattoo. It's crucial to express any fears to your tattoo artist, who can offer support. Having a snack may help maintain your energy levels, but be cautious with painkillers and numbing creams, as they can complicate the process.

Physical activity before the appointment can also be beneficial; vigorous exercise can tire you out and reduce anxiety. Remember that tattoos, while they cause discomfort, aren't a significant deal in the grand scheme, and the endorphins released during the process can help manage pain.

To further alleviate anxiety, ensure you get a good night's sleep, maintain a positive mindset, and avoid stimulants like coffee. A healthy meal and adequate hydration will prepare you for the session. Refrain from consuming alcohol and blood thinners before the tattoo. Punctuality is essential; arriving on time sets a positive tone for the visit, allowing for mental meditation to calm any lingering jitters.

Ultimately, clear communication with your artist and a clear understanding of your feelings will create a more comfortable experience. Take it as a unique step towards achieving your desired self-expression and embrace the journey toward becoming a tattooed individual.

What Can I Take Before A Tattoo To Ease The Pain
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Can I Take Before A Tattoo To Ease The Pain?

Dr. Avaliani suggests taking three or four Ibuprofen tablets one hour before your tattoo appointment to increase your pain tolerance when you feel the needle, which resembles a pen tip rather than a traditional needle. To alleviate discomfort, apply ice packs to the tattoo area before and during breaks, and practice deep breathing exercises to help relax your body and reduce anxiety. Ensure you sit in a comfortable position that puts minimal strain on the area being tattooed.

Engaging with a tattoo expert can help demystify the process for first-timers, easing pre-appointment anxiety. It's beneficial to approach your session feeling relaxed, as this can lead to a smoother experience. Speak with individuals who have multiple tattoos or consult the staff for insights.

Staying well-hydrated is essential since dry skin can increase pain sensitivity during the tattooing process; thus, drink plenty of water beforehand and refrain from caffeine. Eating a meal is also crucial, as low blood sugar can heighten sensitivity to pain. While taking muscle relaxers before the procedure is advised by some, Ibuprofen and aspirin should be avoided due to their blood-thinning properties, potentially complicating the tattooing process. Instead, consider taking Tylenol an hour prior, as it alleviates pain without affecting bleeding.

Numbing creams like Lidocaine can be applied to the tattoo area in advance to block pain signals, providing temporary relief. Other numbing creams such as Emla, Ametop, Speed Numb, Dr. Numb, and TKTX can also be beneficial but may have limited duration. Benzodiazepines or opioids can be safe to take, though they may not significantly mitigate pain.

To further enhance comfort during your tattooing experience, approach the appointment sober, hydrate well, have a hearty breakfast, and get ample rest the night before. While it's crucial to take breaks when needed, avoid painkillers that could thin your blood in the 24 hours leading up to your session. Remember, it’s essential to remain calm and focused during the tattooing process.

How To Mentally Prepare For A Tattoo
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How To Mentally Prepare For A Tattoo?

To ensure a successful tattooing experience, it's vital to prepare both mentally and physically. Start by hydrating adequately; drinking plenty of water not only promotes bodily functions but also keeps your skin in good condition, facilitating quicker healing after your tattoo is complete. Maintain consistent water intake leading up to your appointment and avoid excessive consumption of alcohol or unhealthy foods.

Music can be a calming presence during the session, so consider bringing earbuds or headphones to listen to soothing instrumental tracks, avoiding lyrics that could heighten your awareness and stress. Personally, I prefer silence; however, some may enjoy talking for distraction. Understanding the tattooing process is crucial for managing expectations; being prepared mentally will help alleviate nerves.

A week before the appointment, focus on mental readiness by visualizing the tattoo and its placement. Discuss any prescriptions with your doctor 6-12 months prior to ensure safety. Get plenty of rest leading up to the session, as a well-rested body better handles discomfort and stress.

Your food intake is also important. Have a hearty meal before getting inked to prevent a sugar drop, and consider bringing snacks and sweet drinks to help maintain energy levels during the process. Avoid using creams like Bepanthen before the tattoo and don’t shave the area yourself to prevent any skin issues.

It's imperative to allow yourself the mental space to prepare. Embrace the commitment of getting a tattoo, considering it a permanent addition to your body. Arm yourself with knowledge on design selection, shop choice, and aftercare. The more prepared you are, the more confident and relaxed you will feel during your appointment.

Overall, the key tips include resting well, staying hydrated, eating a nutritious breakfast, and mentally picturing the future tattoo. By following these steps, you can walk into your tattoo appointment with confidence, ready for an exciting journey of self-expression through body art.


📹 My First Tattoo Experience Don’t Let Fear Hold You Back

This video follows a person’s journey from being terrified of tattoos to getting their first one. They share their experience of overcoming fear and the surprising reality of the pain involved. The video aims to inspire viewers to face their own tattoo anxieties and take the plunge.


28 comments

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • I was nervous as hell for my first. My main fear was not being able to handle it and making a fool of myself. I researched sooooo well. I treated it like a military operation! On the day I chewed gum like crazy and went ahead and got it done. It was almost painless! In retrospect I think I just got lucky on an easy spot for me as the four I’ve had since have been more uncomfortable/painful in various ways, but all manageable. There will be plenty more to come too.

  • I’m only 16 years old but have been dying for a tattoo since I was 14. I got my tattoo yesterday and I have a very low pain tolerance. It wasn’t that bad at all I didn’t even tear up which shocked a lot of my family members. It feels exactly like a hot razor. If you are nervous being a stress ball with you to squeeze whenever you feel the need to tense up.

  • My first experience was a week before Thanksgiving. I knew it would hurt, but not as much as I had thought it would. Took it about 3 years to get my first tattoo since it was a life-long thing. Bounced a few ideas around in my head and landed on something I could be proud of. Also, I was the first one in my immediate family and was a bit worried about what my family would say. Ended up getting a medium-sized tattoo and from one of my favorite animes.

  • I got my calf done this summer it was my first tattoo experince. I have just like you had a hard time with needles but I have loved tattoos since I was a small kid. Now Im 27 and finally got my first and for sure not last. I had music blasting for 5h straight just so I only had to focus on the pain. If I would have heard the needles I think that would have been a lot worse. The pain is only temporary the tattoo is forever. I think most people can sit through the pain if they just have the mindset. I would NEVER do a tattoo that I was even a little bit insecure of since they last until you die/laser it or do a coverup… Great content! 😀

  • Awesome story man. Dude I was getting caught up in my own head too. I was afraid of getting something I would regret and also disappointing my family haha I was actually the first person in my family to get inked so it was like a big deal in my mind. Man I drove around the block like 5 times before I’m like dude just go in haha I knew it would be painful cuz I was going straight for the ribs. But man I kept telling myself it would so be worth it in the end, especially cuz it was a tribute to my mom who has passed. But once the artist started man I had wayyyy overhyped the pain in my head. Yeah it hurt but my mind had just so exaggerated what it would be lol I was so happy I had finally manned up to do something I had wanted all my life. Awesome experience. Most of my family knows now. A few freaked out but got over it. Still hiding it from my dad though 🤣

  • I have planned my first tattoo session (upper arm part shoulder) next month (august) after the consult I had this week. I did a lot of research by perusal portfolio’s of artists and reading reviews. The shop even matched the right artist which I already guessed who would fit my style. Doing research also brings down the anxiety for me. During the consult they were very nice to me and we talked about the pain as well. I will keep you updated!

  • 2 weeks after turning 18 i got my first tattoo, its a memorial piece i was so very nervous but once i sat in the chsir and the needle hit my arm all that fear disappeared instantly now im 19 working on my full sleeve even now every time i go im nervous and everytime it goes away as soon as the needle hits

  • I’ve got two tattoos (more to come) and got my first tattoo done one year ago. I did the same as Mike and went with the first shop and didn’t do any research, but fortunately for me it turned out great. I wasn’t nervous but it did hurt a bit, it was a script tattoo on my chest for a quote I’d thought of myself that meant a lot to me. The worst part was where the chest and collarbone area meet because even though the needle never touched my collarbone it sure felt like it. I went back a week ago today to the same artist and got my second tattoo done and once again it turned out great. Now I have two amazing tattoos that I love and have many more that I want. To anyone who’s thinking about getting one or putting one off because they’re unsure, just go for it and you’ll be so happy you did. But don’t do what I did, do some research and make sure the artist knows their stuff luckily for me he did but I should have looked into it more beforehand.

  • I can somehow relate. I have tats now but I also cancelled my very first appointment because I didnt like the sketch. Didnt have the balls to tell the artist and it gave me an anxiety attack. Couldnt sleep the whole night so I just called and lied why I couldnt go through it. I still feel shitty about it til now.

  • I’m not scared of the pain or regret. I’m just scared of the act of getting and having a tattoo. This is because my whole life I haven’t really been around people with lots of tattoos. So I want something small in script for my first tattoo but idk how to get over that anxiety of having a tattoo on my body and being different I guess

  • Im not scared of the pain, Im just anxious. I’ve wanted the same tattoos for years now, and once even booked an apointment and then didnt go at the last moment. I regret it so much! Now Im booked again and I know I wanted it for a long time, and its got a lot of meaning and all… but why do I feel scared? its not even the pain!

  • I can’t really say what I am exactly scared off, but I am so nervous already. I will have 2 sessions, having the first one in 2 days and the other one in beginning of January. It’s nerve wracking and it isn’t even my first one. But my last tattoo was over 10 years ago. It’s like a mix out of the pain, scared of fainting, scared that something goes wrong. But the pain is probably the main. This tattoo is the biggest I get, it will be on my back. Also when they say “Have a good night sleep before”, How should I get a good night sleep when I am already so nervous?

  • Not gonna lie I have anxiety so when my friend said “hey let’s get tattoos” I was like ….oh no. As nervous as scary as it is at first dude… the pain is nothing compared to how amazing and proud you’ll be of the art work. It didn’t hurt at all compared to how bad I wanted the tattoo. 2/10 pain tolerance. I was more afraid of the tattoo coming out like shit 😂 but once you start getting tattooed you realize it’s not that bad. Strangely therapeutic.

  • I really want “the silent princess” flower from zelda on my arm but im very nervous, last year i got blood samples taken, it went okay until it was done and i just passed out, woke up and had no clue where i was + i pissed myself, since then im terrified of getting a tattoo/getting bloodsamples, im afraid it will happen again

  • Im getting my first tattoo tomorrow! Of course Im excited but Im also very nervous about my moms reaction. Im a little bit calm about it because my two siblings already have two tattoos. I think my mom is going to not even be surprised that I even got a tattoo. Back in March of this year I got my nose piercing, again was nervous and when I showed it to her she did one of her infamous glares where she has a slight smile while glaring. I shall update you all when I do show my mom! Might even record it 😀

  • I (25F) have wanted to get tattoos for a very long time. I’ve overcome my fear of the pain, and I’m financially stable enough to pay for one, but there’s just one problem: my mother is vehemently opposed to tattoos. She thinks getting one is “disrespectful.” Even back when I was in college, she threatened to stop paying my tuition if I got a tattoo. I graduated ~2 years ago, but I’m still living with her while working and paying off my student loans. My mom and I have always been really close, and I’m afraid of how she will react to the tattoo. I don’t want to ruin our relationship and I definitely don’t want to get kicked out of the house. What should I do?

  • Don’t really remember my first tattoo as I was 19 but just got my second at 32. I was nervous as hell but knew what I wanted. I had to stop about 20 mins into it and say “uhh Chad it just got really hot in here” 😂😂 it wasnt a pain thing though. he said I worked myself up too much in my head. He gave me a bit-o-honey and a glass of water and got through the next 2.5 hours with no problems! I will say the color fill in got a little whompy going back over the line work but definitely manageable.

  • I have a tattoo and at first I wasn’t too nervous but the experience was incredibly deterring and now I’m afraid of getting more. The artist was not nice and was very stuck up. I almost passed out and he gave my shit about it. So I really want more but now I’m afraid of having a mean artist and passing iut

  • I am getting a tattoo later on this month for my birthday big 36 July 16. I’m getting my very first tattoo. Hopefully I go through with it outer forearm I have heard it’s a 2 out of 10 pain level wise. It’s just my mind plays tricks on me. That I won’t be able suit to sit through it, and I really want one too.

  • Hey man I been planning to get a tattoo for years now and I think this year I really need to do it cause if I don’t ill prolly won’t do it at all. Not gonna lie I’m scared but after perusal this article and you saying “you got this” it made me feel better. My best friend said the same thing to me as well…wish me luck.

  • I just booked my first tattoo for early June. I already know what I want and where I want it. I sent the artist a concept of what I want it to look like. At first I was super excited but this morning I woke up sweating because I got so anxious about the design, what if I don’t like it? What if I regret it? What if I have to tell the artist to redraw it? I know the artist is experienced and capable of giving a good tattoo but I’m anxious regardless

  • Getting my first tattoo tomorrow and I’m excited but also nervous. Main fear is probably the pain and making an ass of myself, I know it’s gonna hurt but I’m an overthinker and I’m probably making it out to be a lot worse than it will be. Not getting anything massive, just a small outline on the arm so I’m hoping I’ll be good 😅

  • I never had a fear of getting tattooed before my first, my first went great. Then my second scared me a little but just a little nervousness because the second was a foot tattoo, I learned I loved foot tattoos so tattoo 2-6 were foot tattoos. I was never worried about tattoos again until I decided to blackout my armpit. I was so nervous, shaking before I even entered the shop almost backed out but I just went with it. It was a pretty easy tattoo tbh, don’t know why I was scared. Now my armpits have been tattooed 3 times and none of the times were nearly bad.

  • My first ones not that interesting I was a dope fiend and my dope fiend gf at the time knew a guy from about an hour away and he came over did some dope w us and tatted all 4 of us for free he honestly did an amazing job it’s 5 years later I still love the tattoo I regret the placement but the tat itself is awesome

  • I guess my fear was doing it, what I mean by that is my parents were against it heck even my whole family tree I know wouldn’t accept them. I wanted a tattoo because I wanted a design/art that can be shown physically instead of showing what I like just in my own room. I’m getting one on my inner forearm in a week I’m excited and nervous at the same time. I know I’ll get criticism from my relatives and hate me for my choices I picked. Then again it’s my choice not theirs and it’s just me trying to be me comfortably and move on happily. It’s going to be an anime tattoo because I just find them the most interesting and rare to find or shown off.

  • Hi I just wanted to say that I love your articles on tattoos and how to look after them. Your articles help me to understand tattoos better and to not let other people’s opinion matter so thank you. Just one question so I’m getting my first tattoo next year to remember my dad but I’m nervous of ringing the tattoo artist because I have some learning difficulties and that the tattoo want understand what I’m trying to say.

  • @EvolveINK my dad passed away in March of 2022, ever since his passing I’ve seen tattoo pictures of various styles of roses… This being my VERY FIRST tattoo, I want to get a simple rose, then maybe incorporate my father into it…. He had 2 decent sized tattoos done in one session and I slowly grew a love for them… PLEASE respond with some positive thoughts and vibes

  • If you’re scared of getting a tattoo then don’t get one. If you really want to, you will sit through the pain of getting one. Don’t be peer pressured to get one like what this guy in the article did. Don’t get a tattoo before the age of 25. You don’t even know yourself yet and you want a permanent tattoo before 25? Umm right.

Tattoo Test: Find Your Perfect Ink

What level of pain are you ready to endure?
The tattoo process can be painful. Let’s see your tolerance.

Latest Publications

Tip of the day!

Pin It on Pinterest

We use cookies in order to give you the best possible experience on our website. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our use of cookies.
Accept
Privacy Policy