Thinking of Getting a Tattoo? Read This First

Have you ever wanted to get a tattoo but couldn’t decide what to get—or where to put it? One moment, you’re drawn to something delicate like butterflies or dainty florals; the next, you’re tempted by bold, abstract designs. Your Pinterest boards are overflowing, your notes app is full of half-formed ideas, and the decision feels almost impossible. After all, choosing where to place something that could last forever isn’t easy.

And that’s the thing about tattoos—they are, for the most part, permanent. So it makes sense to take your time. Whether you’re after something meaningful or simply something that looks beautiful, getting inked is still a commitment.

Tattoo artist and Moonshark Tattoo studio owner Annie Concepcion has seen it all: hesitant first-timers, impulsive best-friend tattoos, heartbreak cover-ups, and bold, full-sleeve transformations. She shared her best advice for anyone planning their first tattoo, from choosing your design to aftercare.

Here’s what you should know before getting inked:

1. Meaningful or just pretty, it’s your call.

People often overthink the “meaning” behind their tattoo. Some want it to symbolize a milestone, others just love how it looks, and honestly, both are valid. What matters more is your reason. Are you doing it because you want to, or because someone else thinks it’d look cool?

“If you’re indecisive, don’t rush it. You’ll know when you’ve found the design. It’ll come to you naturally,” Concepcion says, “There will always be artists around, so take your time. Get tattooed when you’re ready.”

Think about how it’ll age, not just on your skin, but with you. Will it still represent something you love five years from now? Sometimes, the best tattoos aren’t the ones with the deepest backstory, but they’re the ones that make you feel more you.

“Once you know what you want, collaborate with your artist,” she says. 

For Concepcion, it’s important to make the art original. Don’t just search on the internet and ask the artist to copy it. She suggests having your own ideas so it feels unique and personal.

2. Research your artist like you’re hiring a creative partner.

Scrolling through Instagram for tattoo inspo is fun, but it’s also research. Every artist has a signature style: some are masters of fine line work, others excel in realism, traditional, or neo-traditional. Don’t just look for pretty photos; look for consistency and healed results.

“Research is really important,” she explains, “You have to find the right artist for the style you want. Not everyone can do fine-line or small, intricate tattoos, and some artists specialize in thick lines.”

Visit their studio (if possible) or check reviews. You’re not just choosing someone to draw on you, you’re choosing someone who’ll handle your skin, your comfort, and your trust.

3. Prepare like you’re training for a marathon (well, kind of).

The day before your tattoo, think of your body as your canvas, because it literally is. Concepcion advises first-timers to get a good night’s sleep, stay hydrated, and eat a solid meal. Avoid alcohol or anything that might thin your blood.

“During the session, just relax. It’s normal to feel nervous, but trust your artist,” she says.

You’ll be sitting (or lying) for a while, so wear comfy clothes that allow easy access to the area being tattooed. And don’t underestimate the power of a good distraction! Bring music, a podcast, or even a friend, if your artist allows it.

4. Pain is relative, but manageable.

Here’s the truth: yes, it hurts. But not as much as your overthinking might make you believe. Everyone’s pain tolerance is different, and placement plays a big role. Concepcion says fleshy areas like the thigh or upper arm tend to hurt less, while bony spots like ribs, ankles, or wrists can sting more.

“I always tell clients [to] pick the size and placement you really want,” she says, “You’ll feel some pain no matter what, so you might as well get the design you love.”

Still, most people describe it as a scratchy, hot vibration rather than unbearable pain. And honestly, the anticipation is often worse than the actual tattooing.

5. Treat your tattoo like healing art.

Concepcion says aftercare is everything. “Right after your tattoo, keep it clean,” she explains. “Wash it with running water and mild soap, and nothing whitening or harsh.” 

She also reminds clients to treat their fresh ink like healing skin, not art just yet. “Avoid sun exposure, swimming, or soaking in water while it’s healing. Think of it as an open wound. It needs time to breathe and heal properly.”  And when that inevitable itch sets in? She says, “Don’t scratch it. Just let it peel naturally.”

At the end of the day, getting a tattoo isn’t just about the design, it’s about the experience. It’s a conversation between your vision and your artist’s skill, a permanent collaboration that lives on your skin. So whether you’re leaning toward something symbolic or just beautifully aesthetic, take your time. Ask questions. Trust your gut.