It can be scary to get your first tattoo. Whether you’ve just turned 18 and have been waiting for years or are older and embracing the opportunity, the joy of selecting art can be tempered by concerns about the process’s safety threats. After all, a tattoo can go wrong in a variety of ways. However, making efforts to ensure you’re working with an artist who can create the artwork you want and who understands how to protect you from infection or a horrible healing process is critical if you don’t want your first tattoo to be your last.
Myra Brodsky, an artist with 11 years of expertise who works at Red Rocket Tattoo in Manhattan, spoke with Teen Vogue. Brodsky gave us the lowdown on everything you should consider before getting your first tattoo, from what to get to what to look for in a safe, clean session.
Design & Artistry
There are many different types of tattoos to select from. Aside from your own design, you can look for specific artist styles. An artist’s portfolio, which is typically a tangible book in their shop or available online, is a wonderful place to start. Starting with an artist’s Instagram account is also a good idea. (Brodsky’s Instagram page includes both completed tattoos and designs that have yet to be applied.)
Brodsky suggests, “As your first tattoo, I would definitely find someone who is a true professional.” Look for an artist who has done work similar to the design you desire so you can see how the elements will look when they’re finished, she advises. If you’re looking for a specific flower, seek someone who has done it in a way you appreciate.
Brodsky argues that certain trends never seem to go out of style, which is helpful if you’re short on ideas yet want to buy some art. Brodsky had just completed a little rose tattoo on an 18-year-old customer five minutes before our discussion. Flowers, animals, and New York souvenir tattoos, she says, are all popular in her Manhattan business. When it comes to design, though, Brodsky believes that nothing beats a human touch.
“I’ve always believed that people are happiest when they receive something unique. You can, of course, choose something from the book,” she explains. “I enjoy doing stuff from books as well.”
Placement & Pain
Tattoos are painful. Inking has been characterized by stinging, burning, and even cat scratching, but Brodsky believes it’s difficult to describe.
She explains, “I don’t have any experience with waxing, although some people equate it to waxing.” “I would just state that there is nothing you can do to alleviate the pain.”
She explains, “It really relies on you as an individual.” “Not everyone shares my sentiments. Some people believe that lines cause more pain. Some argue that shading causes additional pain. Some argue that everything is the same. Some people believe that nothing can damage you. Some folks say things like “everything hurts” and then proceed to move around a lot. It all depends on the individual.”
“You have to test it out first to get a true sense of what it’s like,” she explains. “I can’t say if it hurts since I’m not sure.” Before we met, she had just conveyed this to the 18-year-old client who had received a rose. When it comes to dealing with pain during the session, Brodsky emphasizes the importance of not moving.
Healing & Aftercare
A tattoo is an open wound that must be handled as such. There are numerous tips available on how to care for new ink, and each one may change slightly. Brodsky revealed her go-to product for sending customers home after a session.
She explains, “When it’s fresh, I always give them a little Vaseline and put them in a little patch, so it’s safe.” “They can wear the patch for two to three hours before taking it off.”
She warns, “Just don’t rewrap it.” “Don’t use any plastic because it will slow down the healing process. When you use kitchen cling film, it’s not often meant for your skin, so some people develop a rash or hives or whatever.” Brodsky recommends using dry bandages overnight if you’re worried about fresh ink bleeding onto your bedsheets. However, once any bleeding has stopped, the essential thing to do is to allow the area to heal by allowing it to breathe. check here for more women tattoos.
“You can just shower when you get home,” she continues. “You can clean it with antibacterial soap, then use Aquaphor for two or three days, two to three times a day, but only in a very thin layer,” says the doctor. Just don’t go overboard because it’s quite wealthy.” If you’re concerned that you’ve used too much Aquaphor, blot some of it away with a clean paper towel.”
