Wherever you choose, prep like a pro. Eat a solid meal an hour before—low blood sugar makes everything hurt more. Wear loose clothing that gives the artist easy access (zip-up hoodies are gold for shoulder tattoos). And never show up hungover; alcohol thins your blood and makes the ink bleed out like a watercolor.
Fun fact: your body’s endorphins kick in around the 10-minute mark, which is why the first few minutes often feel the worst. It’s a natural high designed to get you through the session. Also, the clavicle and ankle are currently trending on Pinterest, but they are notoriously painful—save those for your third or fourth tattoo.
