information

Your First Tattoo: What to Expect

Version 1

Issued 22/10/2026

Draft. Not yet approved by the studio's qualified practitioner. Do not issue to clients.

Nervous? Everyone was once. Here is how a session at Rebellious Ink usually runs.

1. Consultation and design

You will have chatted with your artist through your portal about size, placement, style and references. Many artists show the final design on the day. Small changes are normal, big ones may need another session.

2. Consent and checks

Before anything happens you will complete a short suitability questionnaire and a consent form, and we will check your photographic ID. You must be 18 or over. You can ask to discuss any answer privately. You can change your mind at any point, including right up to the moment we start.

3. Stencil placement

Your artist cleans the area, may shave it, and applies a stencil. Look in the mirror, move around and speak up if the position is not right. Nothing is permanent yet.

4. The session

Expect a scratching or buzzing sensation. Some areas are more sensitive than others. Ask for breaks, water and snacks whenever you need them. Your artist uses sterile single-use needles and barrier-covered equipment. Our Infection Control Statement explains what you will see.

5. Dressing and aftercare

Your artist will dress the tattoo and tell you exactly which dressing was used and when to remove it. You will receive our Tattoo Aftercare guide by email and in your portal.

6. Settling up and follow-up

Pay the balance, book any further sessions and feel free to send a healed photo in a few weeks. We love seeing them.

Questions to ask your artist: How long will this take? How will it look healed? What should I avoid for the next two weeks? When is the best time to send a healed photo?

Practitioner to confirm: that the process described matches how the studio runs a session, including whether the artist or the client may shave the area.

Questions? Email thedesk@rebelliousink.tattoo. For anything medical, contact NHS 111 or your GP. In an emergency, call 999.