• May 19, 2023

Reduce Tattoo Pain: 6 Basic But Overlooked Steps You Need To Take

Since art is a form of expression, it is not only limited to digital arts, painting, music, and many others, but it can also be marked on the skin. Tattooing, the most common form of body art, is not just about flaunting and self-expression, it also involves pain. However, many enthusiasts and even tattoo artists admit that pain can be addictive, which is why they keep coming back to the tattoo parlor.

When getting a tattoo, you need to prepare yourself for the pain it causes. Some would think it is like an insect bite or burning pain depending on the person’s pain threshold. But in areas where there is less flesh like the ankles, neck or wrist, the pain is more intense compared to tattooing on the usual site.

Since getting it is quite painful, you need to prepare yourself first before undergoing the procedure. Getting informed and prepared about what to expect prevents anxiety and nervousness that can cause more pain. Setting the mind decreases perceived pain.

Here’s how to reduce tattoo pain:

1. Avoid drinking alcohol before the procedure

As part of the preparation, never get drunk while getting a tattoo. Although getting drunk and tattooing are mixed in movies and stories, it is not a good idea because it can cause more bleeding which can eventually cause more pain.

2. Have water ready to drink during the process

Another way to reduce pain is to stay hydrated throughout the process. Artists suggest their clients hydrate for at least 36 hours before inking, as dehydration can cause problems, and worse, you may pass out as you go.

3. Do the breathing exercise

Deep, steady breathing is always a good practice to avoid pain. Inhale Exhale. Talk to the artist about how they can help you with this.

4. Pause for a break

When the pain becomes too much or you think you can’t handle it, you can always ask the artist to take a break and pause for a while. This is also suggested as lying down, sitting down, or doing any position can be tiring.

5. Divert your attention

Also, try to talk to your friend or watch a TV show or listen to good music or even talk to the artist to divert your attention and forget about the needle pricking your skin.

6. Take painkillers

Finally, when the procedure is done, it is suggested to get pain medication like NSAIDs or mefenamic acid from the pharmacy. These are over-the-counter medications, so a prescription is not required.

In order to effectively reduce the pain of the tattoo and avoid problems, please do not lean on the side where the tattoo was made or scratch it. It is not suggested to put balm or creams on the area because it can cause irritation that can lead to infection.

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