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Before your appointment · Toronto

Show up ready.Tattoo Pre-Care & Prep

A little prep makes your session smoother, less painful, and helps your tattoo or piercing heal cleaner. Do these before you come in to Yes Electric — then check the aftercare guide for what happens after.

Before you sit down

How to Prep for a Tattoo

Sleep well the night before

Going in rested makes a long session far more comfortable and helps your skin take the ink.

Eat a real meal

Have a proper meal 1–2 hours before. Sitting for a tattoo on an empty stomach is the #1 cause of feeling faint.

Hydrate

Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of — hydrated skin tattoos better.

Skip alcohol & blood thinners (24h)

Avoid alcohol and, where safe to do so, blood-thinning meds for ~24 hours before — they increase bleeding and blur the work. Never stop prescribed medication without asking your doctor.

Moisturise & don't burn

Keep the area moisturised in the days before, and don't show up with a sunburn or freshly shaved-raw skin in the spot.

Dress for the placement

Wear comfortable clothing that gives easy, modest access to the area being tattooed.

Bring ID & references

Bring valid government photo ID (18+) and any reference images for your idea. The clearer your references, the closer we land it.

⚡ Golden rule: fed, hydrated, sober and rested. Get those four right and you'll sit like a champ.
Getting pierced?

Before a Piercing

Good to know

Pre-Care FAQ

How should I prepare for my first tattoo?

Sleep well, eat a real meal beforehand, hydrate, skip alcohol for 24 hours, wear comfortable clothing for the placement, and bring photo ID plus any reference images.

Can I drink before getting a tattoo?

No — alcohol thins your blood, increases bleeding and can affect how the tattoo heals. Come sober and well-fed.

What do I need to bring?

Valid government photo ID (you must be 18+), reference images for your design, and ideally a snack and water for longer sessions.

Should I shave the area myself?

No need — leave it to us. Shaving too aggressively can irritate the skin. Just come with clean, moisturised, un-sunburnt skin.

Prepped and ready?

Walk in any day noon–late, or book your time online with the right artist.

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