Tattoo Day: How to Prepare on the Day of Your Appointment

The Tattoo Day Guide by Sally Mustang (Cape Town & Johannesburg)

The big day is here.

Whether it’s your first tattoo or your tenth, the way you prepare on the day of your appointment can make a huge difference to how comfortable you feel, how smoothly your session goes, and how well your tattoo heals.

At Sally Mustang, we want every client to walk into our studio feeling relaxed, excited, and fully prepared.

Here’s your Tattoo Day Guide - exactly what to do before arriving at the studio.

Save this for later (you’ll thank yourself).

⸻

1️⃣ Eat Before Your Appointment (This Is Important)

One of the most common mistakes people make is arriving on an empty stomach.

Tattooing can cause your blood sugar to drop slightly, which may lead to dizziness, nausea, or feeling faint - especially if you’re nervous.

Before your appointment:

✔ Eat a proper meal

✔ Include protein and carbohydrates

✔ Avoid only sugary foods

Good examples:

* Eggs & toast

* Oats or yoghurt with fruit

* A sandwich or wrap

* Rice, chicken, or pasta if it’s later in the day

Even if you’re feeling nervous, eat something light at minimum.

⸻

2️⃣ Shower & Arrive With Clean Skin

Clean skin helps reduce the risk of irritation or infection during the tattoo process.

Before arriving at the studio:

✔ Take a shower

✔ Wear clean clothes

✔ Make sure the tattoo area is clean

Please avoid applying the following to the tattoo area:

❌ Lotion

❌ Oils

❌ Fake tan

❌ Heavy perfumes or sprays

Your artist will prep the skin professionally before starting.

⸻

3️⃣ Dress for Comfort & Easy Access

This one is often overlooked.

The right clothing can make your session much more comfortable - especially if you’re sitting for a while.

Think about the placement of your tattoo:

* Arm tattoos: Sleeveless or loose shirts

* Leg tattoos: Shorts or loose pants

* Rib tattoos: Loose tops

* Back tattoos: Avoid tight bras or restrictive clothing

* Ankle tattoos: Slides or loose trousers

Also remember: ink stains can happen, so avoid wearing your favourite outfit.

⸻

4️⃣ Hydrate Before Your Session

Hydrated skin takes ink better and tends to heal more smoothly.

On the day of your tattoo:

✔ Drink water before your appointment

✔ Bring a bottle of water with you

Avoid excessive caffeine as it can make some people feel jittery.

⸻

5️⃣ Arrive Calm & On Time

Give yourself enough time to get to the studio without rushing.

Arriving stressed or flustered can make you feel more anxious before your tattoo.

Try to arrive:

✔ On time

✔ Relaxed

✔ Ready to start your session

If you’re early, feel free to settle in and chat with your artist before beginning.

⸻

6️⃣ Bring a Few Comfort Items

For longer sessions especially, it helps to bring a few personal items to keep yourself comfortable.

Here are a few things we recommend:

✔ Water

✔ Snacks or something sugary

✔ Headphones

✔ A podcast or playlist

✔ A hoodie or jacket

✔ A book or tablet

Most clients like to zone out with music during their session.

⸻

7️⃣ Feeling Nervous? That’s Completely Normal

Even people with many tattoos still get butterflies before a new one.

Remember:

Your artist will walk you through the process, make sure the placement is perfect, and ensure you’re comfortable before starting.

At Sally Mustang, we pride ourselves on creating a calm, friendly, professional studio environment where you can feel completely at ease.

You’re always welcome to ask questions - no matter how small.

⸻

Final Tattoo Day Checklist

Before leaving the house, make sure you’ve:

✔ Eaten a meal

✔ Showered

✔ Worn comfortable clothing

✔ Brought water & snacks

✔ Allowed time to arrive calmly

Simple preparation = a better tattoo experience.

⸻

Ready for Your Next Tattoo?

Our artists work from our studios in:

📍 Cape Town

📍 Johannesburg

If you’d like to discuss a tattoo idea, book a consultation or get a quote:

📲 WhatsApp us to start your booking

Let’s create something meaningful.

🖤

All the love,

Fallon Kotze

Sally Mustang Tattoos