You may have the steps to healing a tattoo down to a science but there are some things you need to consider before getting a new tattoo as well. There are steps that must be taken in order to give your new tattoo the best chance of healing properly and looking its best.
If You're Sick, Reschedule
If you feel run down or under the weather in any way, it's a good idea to reschedule your tattoo appointment. When you are sick your natural immune system is not performing at it's peak. Adding the undue stress of a new tattoo to the list of things the immune system needs to deal with is not good for your general health or the healing of a new tattoo.
If you are feeling sick your best bet is to put your new tattoo on hold until your bug has completely subsided.
Don't Get Tattooed If You're Pregnant
Most tattoo shops will not tattoo you if they know you're pregnant. The reason for this isn't that your body can't take the tattoo but it will cause unneeded trauma to the unborn baby which could easily cause complications. A woman's body also goes through many physical changes during and after pregnancy which could potentially affect the look of a new tattoo.
It's Not Good To Be Drunk
Not only is it a bad idea to drink the day of your new tattoo, you'll want to quit a few days before in order to assure that your blood is not thinned out. Alchohol is a natural blood thinner and besides bleeding more, it will take your new tattoo longer to heal with a build up of alchohol in the body.
It's also a good idea to avoid using asprin or pain relievers for a few days before your new tattoo, which also thins out the blood.
Load Up On Vitamin C
Vitamin C will not only make you healthier, it will also benifit your new tattoo. Vitamin C will give your body more energy allowing it to heal quickly.
If you don't like orange juice, a muti-vitamin will do you good.