Tattoos are beloved by many around the world. They're an incredible form of self-expression and come in all sorts of styles and colors today. If you're going into a tattoo shop for your very first one, these tips will ensure this experience goes smoothly from start to finish. 

Spend Time Choosing the Perfect Design

How happy you'll be with this first tattoo is primarily dependent on the design you choose. There are some tricks that can help you out with the design process. The first is choosing something that has a lot of meaning to you. Then when you look at this tattoo every day, you'll remember why you got it in the first place. 

It's also important that your first tattoo design isn't too busy. Sometimes going simpler the first time will give you a better tattoo. Also, getting a simpler design means you'll have to experience less pain.

Carefully Select the Tattoo Artist

Another factor that determines how great this first tattoo turns out is the artist completing it. Remember that not all tattoo artists are created equal, and because of this, you need to spend time reviewing an artist's skills and creative abilities. The best way to go about this is by looking at the tattoo artist's portfolio. 

If they've been in the industry for a while, they should have examples of actual tattoos they've completed for past clients. When looking these examples over, pay attention to relevant details like line work, detail, color theory, and art style. Taking time to assess these attributes helps you make sure the tattoo artist is fully qualified. 

Remember Aftercare Steps

Once you get this tattoo, it's paramount that you take care of it properly. Otherwise, your skin will not heal the right way, and this can affect the overall quality of the tattoo. First and foremost, make sure you purchase some moisturizing lotion. You'll need it to prevent your skin from drying out.

Also make sure you keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight. The sun's UV rays can cause your skin to dry out, which can affect the aesthetics of the tattoo in the long term. Keep the tattoo bandaged until your skin has had time to fully heal.

There's nothing like getting your first tattoo. So that this dream doesn't turn into a nightmare, take your time preparing for what this process entails. The more prepared you are, the better experience you'll have. Contact companies like Studio 28 Tattoos & Body Piercing to learn more.