So you’re thinking about getting your first tattoo. Iconic. Life-changing. Slightly terrifying. Totally worth it. Whether you’ve been saving inspo for years or woke up today feeling impulsive, this guide will walk you through exactly what to expect when getting a tattoo for the first time.

Quick reality check before we dive in. Tattoo laws vary by location. Most tattoo shops require you to be 18 years old, or to have parental consent if you’re under 18. No shortcuts. No sneaking. Respect the rules and the artists.

Now let’s get into it.

What Does Getting a Tattoo Feel Like?

Let’s kill the fear right now. Yes, tattoos hurt a little. No, it is not unbearable. The sensation is usually described as a vibrating scratch with light pricks. Some spots hurt more than others depending on placement, skin sensitivity, and your pain tolerance.

If needles freak you out, focus on your breathing. Stay calm. Close your eyes. Mentally check out and think about literally anything else. This helps more than people realize.

If you start to feel dizzy, anxious, or overwhelmed, tell your tattoo artist immediately. Taking breaks is normal. Jumping suddenly or passing out is not. Communication is everything.

Don’t overthink things. Start small. You can always go bigger later. My first tattoo was a lyric from the Issues song Never Lose Your Flames on my inner arm. Simple, meaningful, and done fast. Perfect starter tattoo energy.

How to Choose the Right Tattoo Artist (This Is the Most Important Part)

Finding a tattoo artist can feel overwhelming, but this step matters more than anything else.

Start with:

• Word of mouth recommendations
• Friends’ tattoos you love in real life
• Google and Yelp reviews

Once you have a few names, stalk their portfolio. And not just fresh tattoos. Look for healed tattoo photos. Healed work shows real skill, especially when it comes to line work and longevity.

Know the tattoo style you want before you book.
Traditional tattoos, fine line tattoos, realism, blackwork, portraits, lettering. These are all different skill sets.

Not every tattoo artist is good at every style. Thats normal, and completely okay!

Some artists will tell you when a design is not in their lane. Others will not. And yes, laser tattoo removal exists. But let’s not create problems we could avoid with better research.

Tattoo Pricing, Quotes, and Why You Should Not Be Cheap

Once you find an artist you love, reach out for a tattoo quote. Most tattoo shops will give you a price range. Final cost depends on size, placement, detail, and how long the tattoo takes.

Be prepared to pay cash. And always tip your tattoo artist.

If you remember nothing else about costs, remember this: Do not negotiate pricing. Do not complain about rates. Do not try to cut corners. Tattoos are permanent. Cheap tattoos are usually substantially more expensive later.

If you cannot afford the artist you want, wait until you can. The right tattoo is worth saving for.

Tattoo Aftercare: How to Heal Your First Tattoo Properly

Aftercare opinions vary, so always follow your artist’s instructions. Some artists recommend Aquaphor. Others prefer tattoo-specific balms sold in the shop. Both can be fine.

What matters most:

• Keep it clean
• Moisturize as directed
• Avoid direct sunlight
• Do not soak it
• Do not pick scabs
• Stay hydrated

A fresh tattoo is an open wound. It will ooze plasma. It will flake. It might itch. This is normal. Let it heal. Picking will mess it up.

Before Before You Get Inked

If you’ve made up your mind, don’t overthink it. Get the tattoo. Take care of it. Let it be yours.

And no, your tattoo does not need to make sense to anyone else. Not your friends. Not your family. And especially not to strangers on the internet.

This is coming from the girl with a giant Wednesday Addams tattoo on her arm.

Trust yourself. Choose wisely. Have fun with it.

Oh, and please avoid anything trendy that you’ll likely hate in a few years.