Your tattoo appointment is coming up and you're wondering what to do — and what to avoid? You're in the right place. Good preparation means less pain, cleaner lines and faster healing. Guests who arrive hungry, hungover or exhausted are every studio's classic story — and every one of those problems is preventable. Here is the step-by-step preparation protocol Bosphorus Ink artists recommend to every guest.
24–48 Hours Before Your Appointment
- Stop drinking alcohol. Alcohol thins the blood; excess bleeding during the session disrupts ink saturation and prolongs the process. No alcohol for at least 24 hours (ideally 48) before your appointment.
- Avoid blood thinners. Don't stop prescribed medication without asking your doctor — but skip aspirin and similar painkillers before the session unless they're essential.
- Drink plenty of water. Hydrated skin takes ink far better.
- Sleep well. A tired body is more sensitive to pain; 7–8 hours of sleep makes a real difference.
On Appointment Day
- Eat a proper meal. Getting tattooed on an empty stomach is the number one cause of dizziness and blood pressure drops. A balanced meal 1–2 hours before the session is ideal.
- Wear comfortable, suitable clothing. Choose clothes that give easy access to the tattoo area and that you won't mind getting stained.
- Bring with you: ID, water, a sugary snack, and headphones for longer sessions.
- Don't shave the area at home: if shaving is needed, we do it under sterile conditions at the studio. We also cannot work on sunburnt or freshly tanned skin.
Should I Use Numbing Cream?
Numbing creams can improve comfort in some areas, but certain products affect skin texture and ink retention. Don't apply anything on your own — ask us before your appointment and we'll plan the right product and timing together if appropriate. To set your pain expectations, check our area-by-area pain guide.
Tell Us in Advance If Any of These Apply
Diabetes, heart conditions, epilepsy, blood disorders, pregnancy or breastfeeding, or regular medication use — let us know before your appointment, and get your doctor's approval where needed. Your health comes before any design.
Be Ready for What Comes After
The first 30 days of healing are critical. Read our first 30 days aftercare guide before your session — and if it's summer, plan around our swimming after a tattoo guide too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink coffee before my tattoo?
One cup is fine; excessive caffeine can increase jitteriness and sensitivity.
Can I bring a friend to my appointment?
Yes, one companion is welcome; please let us know in advance for larger groups.
It's my first tattoo — I can't sleep from excitement. Is that normal?
Completely normal. Our first tattoo guide walks you through the whole process step by step, and we answer all your questions at the consultation.
Plan your appointment today: WhatsApp +90 545 131 07 34 for our Beşiktaş (Polat Tower) or Pendik studio — free consultation, same-week appointments.
