Back tattoo advice

[Tattoonew]

Hi, hoping for advice.
I've got quite a few tattoos but it's been 8 years since my last one and most of them were done with bamboo in Asia which is a different healing process.

I've booked this weekend for a large upper back tattoo across both shoulders booked in for a whole day session.
What do I take with me?
What do I wear?
What do I wear afterwards to go home?
How do I shower and wash my hair (don't have a hand held shower just an overhead!) How to wash the tattoo?
What cream to use? Can I get a spray cream? How to apply?
What to wear each day as its healing, it's cold here so I don't want to keep it uncovered all the time..
How to sleep, on my tummy?

Sorry so many questions and i am a massive overrthinker so would appreciate any advice!

I don't have a back tattoo but I do have a sleeve..
To the appointment i would wear a tube top with maybe a tie string bikini top under, hopefully you drive so you don't have to travel like this! Shower etc I usually only keep mine dry for a couple of hours and then give it a wash with water and then shower normally in the days that follow but no baths and only cool/lukewarm water. Clothes while it's healing I'd go for cotton, satin, smooth things that aren't tight snd are less likely to stick, nothing fuzzy or fluffy etc. Strapless/bandeau bras for a good while or the straps will rub the ink out I suspect.

I don't use numbing cream but message your tattoo artist and ask what they'd recommend, mine said if I ever want to use it ask her which one to get first as she hates some because they make the skin weird

Wear a loose fitting top, the tattoo will be covered with cling film and tape when first done, which you leave on for as long as possible before removing when you shower. When you get there make sure you have eaten something and had some water, I take some sugary sweets to suck during the tattoo, it’s good to keep the blood sugar up. Afterwards, I wash the tattoo with a medicated soap and use a thin layer of tattoo after care (both can be bought from Superdrug) which I do twice a day and try and wear tops that let air to the tattoo. After a week the worst of the scabbing and itchiness should go and the tattoo should start to heal. Good luck!

Sorry for multiple messages.. i would take. Water, lucozade or coke for if you start feeling dizzy or sick, sweets, kindle or ear phones if you don't think the artist will be very chatty, something you can eat if it's a full day session but something that's really quick like a protein bar or similar.

I’ve been in the same boat! For a large back tattoo:

1. I’d recommend wearing something loose and easy to take off, like a button-up or zip-up.
2. After the session, head home in a soft, loose top to avoid rubbing on the fresh ink.
3. For showering, I let water gently run over the tattoo, and if you don’t have a handheld shower, you can use a cup to rinse it carefully.
4. I used Aquaphor (fragrance-free) and it worked well. There are spray creams, but just make sure they’re tattoo-safe.
5. Sleeping on your stomach worked best for me. And for the cold, I’d go for loose, breathable clothing while it heals.

Thank you all so much for the helpful practical advice, I feel much more prepared now!
I think I'm really nervous and scared actually haha so I'm focusing on the practical elements to take my mind off it! Excited for it to be done now

For my back tattoo, I wore a vest top and shirt. I am big chested so have to wear a bra which was absolutely fine. I just took the bra off, pulled the vest down and put my arms through my shirt.

I always take fruit pastilles and fizzy drinks.

I have always showered/washed my hair as normal after a tattoo. I use coconut oil on all of mine.

My back tattoo actually healed super fast. It goes from my nape to under my bra strap.

It’s exciting that you’re getting a big piece done! Totally get the nerves and overthinking—it’s a lot to prepare for, but you’ll do great. 😊 Here’s some advice from my experience:

1. What to Take:
2. A bottle of water and some snacks (things like protein bars or nuts are great for keeping your energy up).
3. A fully charged phone, maybe with some music or podcasts to help pass the time.
4. Any numbing cream you plan to use (if your artist is okay with it).
5. Your usual aftercare products if you’ve already got them.
6. What to Wear:
7. A loose-fitting button-up shirt or hoodie that’s easy to slip on and off without rubbing your back and shoulders. For a shoulder tattoo, you might even consider a tank top that can be adjusted or easily pulled down on one side during the session.
8. For going home, stick with the same—loose and soft clothes that won’t irritate your fresh ink.
9. Showering/Washing the Tattoo:
10. With an overhead shower, try tilting your body to let the water gently run over the tattoo without blasting it directly. For shoulders, use your hands to carefully cup and pour water over the area if needed.
11. Use a mild, fragrance-free soap (like unscented Dove or a specialized tattoo wash).
12. Creams:
13. Look for a fragrance-free, gentle cream like Aquaphor or Bepanthen. Some people like spray-on creams like Dermalize, which can be easier for a large back or shoulder piece. Just spray a light layer and gently pat it in with clean hands.
14. What to Wear While Healing:
15. Loose, soft clothing made of cotton or breathable fabric is your best bet. For shoulders, be mindful of straps—opt for strapless or wide-neck tops to avoid rubbing. Since it’s cold, you can wear layers, but make sure nothing sticks to the tattoo.
16. Sleeping:
17. Yes, sleeping on your tummy is usually best for a back or shoulder tattoo. You can put a clean towel or sheet under you just in case there’s any ink or plasma seepage during the night. If sleeping on your stomach isn’t comfortable, try propping yourself slightly on one side with pillows to avoid pressure on your tattooed shoulder.

Shoulder tattoos can be a bit tricky for aftercare because of clothing and movement, so just be mindful of anything that might rub or irritate it while it heals. Wishing you the best for your session—can’t wait to hear how it turns out! 😊