a smooth tattoo session starts a day or two before you ever sit in the chair. none of this is complicated, but getting it right makes the whole thing easier on you — and on your artist. here's the checklist.
the day before
- hydrate. well-hydrated skin takes ink better. start drinking water the day before, not just the morning of.
- skip the alcohol. no drinking for at least 24 hours beforehand — it thins your blood, which means more bleeding and a harder, longer session.
- sleep. a rested body handles the discomfort far better than a tired one. this is half the battle.
- moisturize the area for a few days leading up, but skip lotion the morning of so the stencil sticks.
socal artists you can book on goodwork
their work, where they tattoo, and the deposit they ask for.
vince espinozablackwork · linework$50 deposit
lunayflorestattoosanta fe springsrealism · black & grey$100 deposit
level tattoolos felizblackwork · minimalist$100 deposit
dylan aielloblackwork · minimalist$100 deposit
the morning of
- eat a real meal. this is the big one. tattoos drop your blood sugar, and an empty stomach is the fastest route to feeling lightheaded. eat within a couple hours of your appointment.
- dress for the spot. wear loose, comfortable clothes you don't mind getting a little ink on, chosen so the artist can easily reach the area — shorts for a thigh, a loose top for a shoulder.
- don't shave it yourself unless asked — your artist will prep and shave the area properly.
what to bring
- your ID — you must be 18+ in california and they will check.
- references for your idea, even rough ones, plus anything about size and placement you care about.
- a snack and water for longer sessions, and headphones if music helps you settle in.
- your deposit info / payment and a little extra for a tip.
during the session
speak up when you check the stencil — placement is your call, and a good artist wants it right as much as you do. breathe steadily through the tougher passes, and don't tough out a long session in silence; it's completely normal to ask for a short break. afterward, follow the aftercare your artist gives you to the letter.
haven't booked yet? find an artist on goodwork — real portfolios and pricing upfront, so you walk in knowing exactly what you're getting.
browse tattoo artists across socal →
ready to pick someone?
jessica lindenriversideillustrative · neo-traditional$100 deposit
kadriya truvilliondowntown lablackwork · linework$60 deposit · $125 min
ashynucklestattooeagle rockblackwork · black & grey$50 deposit · $100 min
imindisoulanaheimblack & grey · realism$250 deposit
inkedby_gnorth hollywoodgeometric · realism
rae kakuel montefine line · linework$80 deposit
frequently asked questions
what should i do before a tattoo appointment?
sleep well, eat a real meal beforehand, hydrate for a day or two ahead, wear comfortable clothing that gives access to the spot, and bring your ID, references, and a snack. skip alcohol the night before.
should i eat before getting a tattoo?
yes — definitely eat a solid meal within a couple hours of your appointment. tattoos drop your blood sugar, and going in hungry is the fastest way to feel lightheaded or queasy in the chair.
can you drink alcohol before getting a tattoo?
no — avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before. it thins your blood, which means more bleeding, harder-to-place ink, and a longer heal. show up sober and rested.
what should i wear to a tattoo appointment?
loose, comfortable clothing you don't mind getting a little ink on, chosen so the artist can easily reach the area. getting a thigh piece? wear shorts. getting a back piece? bring a top you can adjust.
should i shave before a tattoo?
you don't have to — your artist will shave and prep the area themselves. if you do shave beforehand, do it gently a day ahead and skip the harsh exfoliants.