A tattoo is an investment that literally gets under your skin. To ensure your appointment at Old Dragon Ink is not only relaxed but also delivers the best possible artistic result, the preparation begins long before you even step into our studio in Dinkelsbühl. This guide will tell you everything you need to know to optimally prepare your body and mind for the session.

1. The Weeks Before: Skincare is Teamwork

Your skin is the tattoo artist’s canvas. The healthier and more well-maintained this canvas is, the better the ink can be worked in.

• Moisture from within and without: Drink plenty of water (2–3 liters daily) in the days leading up to your appointment. Well-hydrated skin absorbs pigments much better. Also, regularly moisturize the area to be tattooed with a gentle lotion – but be careful: Do not use lotion on the day of the appointment, as it can clog pores and make the stencil unstable.
• Avoid sun and tanning beds: Sunburn is an absolute no-go. Sunburned or peeling skin cannot be tattooed. If you arrive with sunburn, we will have to reschedule your appointment for safety reasons. So, consistently protect the area from UV radiation for at least two weeks beforehand.
• No invasive treatments: Avoid peels, laser treatments, or chemical hair removal in the area of the planned tattoo shortly beforehand.

2. The “Sin Check”: What You Should Avoid

Certain substances affect your blood circulation and pain perception – and thus the quality of the linework.

• Alcohol & Drugs: Do not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before your appointment. Alcohol thins the blood and increases lymph flow, which can cause the ink to be “washed out” of the skin, leading to faded results. Drugs of any kind are an absolute taboo and will lead to immediate cancellation.
• Medication: Be cautious with blood-thinning medications like Aspirin or Marcumar. If you regularly take medication, please clarify this with us and your doctor in advance. Painkillers taken to “prevent” tattoo pain are counterproductive, as many of them (like ibuprofen) also affect blood clotting.
• Caffeine: Excessive coffee consumption shortly before your appointment can make you shaky and nervous. Moderate consumption is okay, but don’t overdo it.

3. The Day of the Appointment: Full Batteries for Your Immune System

Getting a tattoo is physically demanding. Your body needs energy to process the pain and initiate healing immediately.

• Eat well: Never come to us on an empty stomach! Stable blood sugar levels protect you from circulatory problems. Eat a carbohydrate-rich meal about 1–2 hours before your appointment.
• Sleep: A restful night works wonders for your pain tolerance. Those who are overtired are more sensitive to pain and more prone to circulatory weakness.
• Hygiene: Please arrive freshly showered for your appointment. This is not only more pleasant for the tattoo artist but also minimizes the risk of infection. We usually shave the area ourselves in the studio to avoid skin irritations or micro-cuts from dull razors.

4. Your “Tattoo Kit”: What to Bring

To ensure you are comfortable during the session, you should pack a few things:

• The right clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can get dirty (tattoo ink won’t come out!). Make sure the area to be tattooed is easily accessible. If you’re getting a thigh tattoo, wide shorts are ideal; for a back tattoo, a shirt that can be worn backward.
• Entertainment & Snacks: For longer sessions, a phone, headphones, or a book can help distract you. We naturally have sugary drinks (cola, juice) and small snacks (dextrose, bars) for you to boost your circulation. Of course, you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.
• Documents: Don’t forget your valid ID. By law, we cannot proceed without proof of age.

5. Mentality: Relaxation is Key

It’s completely normal to be nervous before an appointment – whether it’s your first or tenth tattoo.

• Communication: If you feel dizzy, need a break, or the position is uncomfortable: Talk to us! We are professionals and know how to handle moments of circulatory weakness. There’s no need to “act tough.”
• Distraction vs. Focus: Some clients meditate during the tattooing process, others need conversation. Find out what helps you stay calm. Calm breathing is essential – holding your breath tenses you up and increases pain perception.

6. Bureaucracy & Legal Matters

As you’ve already read in our Quality Guide, we place great importance on professionalism.

• Consent Form: Take the time to read our forms thoroughly and fill them out honestly. Your health comes first.
• Deposit & Punctuality: Punctuality is a sign of mutual respect. If you feel unwell or sick, please notify us as early as possible so we can find a solution together.

Conclusion: Your Contribution to the Masterpiece

A first-class tattoo is created through the interaction between artist and client. By following these tips, you create the ideal conditions for quick healing and a brilliant final result. We at Old Dragon Ink provide the sterile environment and artistic precision – you bring the perfectly prepared canvas.

Do you have any specific questions about your upcoming appointment? Contact us anytime or check out our FAQ section. We look forward to realizing your project with you!