Getting a tattoo requires some preparation. You have to be prepared physically and mentally to get a tattoo. You may not know this but wearing appropriate clothing for tattooing is also a part of the preparation. If you are thinking to get a shoulder tattoo you may wonder, what should you wear when getting the shoulder tattoo.
Inappropriate clothing can hinder your artist’s work by causing accessibility issues. Tight clothing and the wrong type of fabric can constrict the newly tattooed area from getting free air and become sweaty. Sweat and constricting newly done tattoos from getting fresh air can lead to tattoo infection and delayed healing. That is why it is crucial to wear appropriate clothing when you get a shoulder tattoo. I elaborated on this matter below.
Key Takeaways
- During the shoulder tattoo session, you should wear a loosely fitted button-up or zip-up shirt, a sleeveless top, a tank top, a strapless dress, a sports bra, etc.
- When you choose a dress to wear during your shoulder tattoo procedure try to pick cotton, bamboo, linen, etc type of fabric as they are light, comfy, and breathable.
- When you dress up for your should tattoo procedure make sure your clothes are clean, provides easy access to your shoulder, is loose-fitted, comfortable, breathable, etc.
- While your shoulder tattoo heals you should wear long-sleeved attire to protect the healing tattoo from sunlight, wear breathable fabric, and avoid tight straps as it can damage your shoulder tattoo.
Things to Wear When Getting a Shoulder Tattoo
You don’t have to spend hours thinking about what to wear and what not to wear when getting a shoulder tattoo. Because I have made a list of things you can wear that would make the shoulder tattooing procedure easier and more comfortable for you and your tattoo artist.
- Loosely fitted button-up shirts
- Sleeveless top
- Tank top
- Zip-up shirt
- Strapless dress or top
- Sports Bra
1. Loosely fitted button-up shirts
Button-up shirts are a great choice when it comes to clothing to wear when getting tattooed. And wearing a loose button-up shirt for a shoulder tattoo is almost perfect. Such shirts can give your tattoo artist easy access to your shoulder. You can take off the shirt on one side where you want to get the tattoo easily and wear the shirt after getting the shoulder tattoo without causing any discomfort in the shoulder area. It is a pretty practical choice if you ask me.
2. Sleeveless top
If you ask me what would I wear when getting a shoulder tattoo, I have to say I would pick the sleeveless top because it is just the perfect clothing for tattooing. It is light, comfortable, and gives easy excess to the shoulder, and there literally no chance of fabric friction after you get the shoulder tattoo. I don’t think any type of clothing can beat the sleeveless top on it comes to choosing cloth for shoulder tattooing. And sleeveless tops are not expensive at all, so even if you ruin the top during the tattooing procedure it is not a big deal.
3. Tank top
Tank tops are getting more and more popular nowadays. And guess what? It can be the perfect thing to wear during your shoulder tattoo session. Tank tops give you confidence and comfort while it giving your tattoo artist easy access to your shoulder. Men and women both can rock a tank top and get the shoulder tattoo with ease.
4. Zip-up shirt
When you choose a clothing for shoulder tattoo session you have to make sure it is something you can easily take off and wear again. You don’t want to struggle to take off your shirt when your tattoo artist is waiting with the tattoo gun in his hand, right? Then you can go with a zip-up shirt without any worry. The zip-up shirt is very easy to take off and after getting the tattoo you can easily wear it again. Wearing a zip-up shirt will not cause much friction on your shoulder area so you won’t be damaging your newly done tattoo by fabric friction.
5. Strapless dress or top
Strapless or shoulder-less dresses can be a perfect choice for your shoulder tattoo session. When you wear a strapless dress, your shoulder stays exposed so your tattoo artist can easily get access and work on your shoulder. And after the tattooing procedure, it is easy to bandage the newly done tattoo and it has no chance of facing fabric friction issues.
6. Sports Bra
Sports bras can be a good choice for many but not for everyone. Sports bra gives full access to your should for your tattoo artist to work on but the clothing can be a bit tight. Sitting or lying on the tattoo table for hours wearing a tight sports bra might not be comfortable for everyone. But if you are used to this type of clothing then feel free to wear it during your shoulder tattoo.
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7 Things to Keep in Mind While Choosing Clothing for a Shoulder Tattoo
There are a few thighs that you should keep in mind while choosing clothing for a shoulder tattoo. Such as:
- Cleanliness
- Easy access
- Avoid tight-fitting clothes
- Easy to bandage
- Comfort
- Breathable fabric
- Temperature regulation
1. Cleanliness
Tattooing is similar to a mini surgery. You know how crucial it is to maintain a sterile environment during surgery right? Well, it is not essential to maintain that type of environment while tattooing, but you should maintain cleanliness. Wearing dirty clothes during the tattoo session is not recommended. Because germs or dirt from your clothing may go into the sensitive or wonder area where the tattooing procedure is being done. It can lead to tattoo infection. A tattoo infection is the last thing you want as it can fade or distort your tattoo. Apart from that wearing dirty clothing is inappropriate because your artist or other people at the tattoo parlor may feel uncomfortable because of it. It is the tattoo artist’s job to provide a clean and tidy space for the tattooing procedure and wearing clean clothes and staying physically clean for the tattoo session is your job.
2. Easy access to your shoulder
When you go for a tattoo session, it is recommended to wear clothing that will give easy access to the body part where you want to get the tattoo. If your tattoo artist struggles to get access to a certain body part where you want the tattoo, it may affect the quality of the tattoo making. So when you go for a shoulder tattoo session, make sure to wear something that your tattoo artist doesn’t have to struggle to get access to your shoulder.
3. Avoid tight-fitting clothes
Tight-fitting clothes can cause fabric friction on the tattooed area. Too much fabric friction has the potential to ruin or distort a newly done tattoo. So make sure to avoid tight-fitting clothes when you go for your tattoo session, especially if it is a shoulder tattoo session. Because the shoulder tends to stay covered by clothes. So unless you wear a shoulder-less dress or strapless dress you should avoid wearing tight-fitted clothes.
4. Easy to bandage
After finishing the tattooing procedure, your tattoo artist will use a tattoo bandage to wrap the newly done tattoo to protect it from harm. So make sure to wear something which will not hinder the process of bandaging your shoulder tattoo.
5. Comfort
Comfort during the tattooing procedure is crucial. Because you do not know how long the session could last. It could last a few hours, and sitting or laying on the tattoo bed for hours wearing uncomfortable clothing can be a bit difficult. So make sure whatever you are wearing, you feel comfortable in it.
6. Breathable fabric
If you are not wearing a strapless dress then make sure to wear breathable clothing that will let your newly done tattoo get some air. Restricting your newly done tattoo from getting fresh air can cause dampness, infection, and delayed healing.
7. Temperature regulation
As I said tattoo sessions can be lengthy. So wearing a sleeveless or strapless dress can help you regulate your body temperature. Staying cool during the shoulder tattoo session can help you stay calm and go through the session without taking any breaks. Which can reduce the session length and you can finish the session earlier. Not to mention you will feel relaxed if your body temperature is regulated and will be able to stay stress-free.
Clothing Material to Choose When Getting a Shoulder Tattoo
I have listed a few suggestions above on what sort of clothing you can wear when getting a shoulder tattoo. Not only the type of clothing but also the material it is made of matters. The material you choose can impact both your comfort during the process and the overall outcome of your tattoo.
Here are some recommended materials to consider:
Cotton
Cotton is a popular choice for tattoo sessions due to its softness, breathability, and absorbency. It allows air circulation, preventing excessive sweating and reducing the risk of irritation to the tattooed area. Cotton clothing also tends to be gentle on the skin, minimizing discomfort during the tattooing process. So it could be a perfect material for clothing for your to wear when getting a shoulder tattoo.
Linen
Linen is another excellent option for shoulder tattoo sessions. It is lightweight, breathable, and absorbs moisture well, making it ideal for keeping you cool and comfortable during long tattoo sessions. Linen fabric is also known for its durability, ensuring that your clothing won’t easily tear or fray during the tattooing process.
Modal
Modal is a bio-based fabric made from beech tree pulp. It is renowned for its softness, stretchability, and moisture-wicking properties. Modal clothing provides a comfortable and snug fit, allowing for ease of movement during the shoulder tattooing session. It also helps to regulate body temperature, keeping you cool and dry.
Bamboo
Bamboo fabric is known for its breathability, moisture-wicking ability, and antimicrobial properties. It offers a soft and comfortable feel against the skin. If you care about the natural you may go with the bamboo fabric as it is an eco-friendly option. Bamboo clothing is particularly suitable for individuals with sensitive skin, as it is hypoallergenic and less likely to cause irritation. So if you have sensitive skin and want to get a shoulder tattoo bamboo fabric could be the right choice for you.
Tencel
Tencel, also known as lyocell, is a sustainable fabric made from wood pulp. It is praised for its breathability, moisture absorption, and silky smooth texture. Tencel clothing provides excellent comfort during shoulder tattooing sessions, allowing for optimal airflow and reducing the risk of skin irritation.
Clothing to Wear During Your Shoulder Tattoo Heals
Your tattoo stays sensitive until it is completely healed. And sensitive wounds or tattoos can get ruined pretty easily. So make sure you follow proper aftercare for your shoulder tattoo and wear appropriate clothing during the healing phase. During the healing phase, you should keep in mind the below factors while choosing clothes to wear.
- Loose-fitted clothing
Tight-fitted clothing can cause fabric friction on your shoulder tattoo and cause bruises. Bruise on a healing tattoo is not good. It can lead to infection or delayed healing. So wear loose-fitted clothing to avoid fabric friction and give your healing shoulder tattoo the space it needs. - Soft fabrics
Choose clothing made of soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and modal to wear while your shoulder tattoo is healing. These materials are gentle on the skin and reduce irritation. - Button-up shirts or sleeveless tops
- You can leave a few buttons on your button-up shirt so the tattoo can get some air. You can easily wear and take off button-up shirts or sleeveless tops, they won’t be causing any severe friction on your healing shoulder tattoo. And such clothing can give you easy access to your shoulder so that you can apply moisturizer or healing ointment on the tattoo.
- Avoid tight straps
Avoid wearing backpacks or bags with tight straps that can rub against your shoulder tattoo. If necessary, consider using a bag with adjustable or padded straps to reduce pressure on the shoulder. - Long Sleeved Attire
If you are going out in the sunlight then make sure to wear long-sleeved attire to protect your tattoo from direct sunlight. If you have a long shoulder tattoo, some part of it may go into your back, chest, or hand. That is why covering it with appropriate clothing before going out in the sun is necessary.
Color of Clothing to Wear During Shoulder Tattoo
First of all, there is no fixed color to wear during your tattooing procedure. But the general rule of thumb is to wear black during the tattooing procedure. So try to wear black color clothing during your shoulder tattoo. Why so? I have explained the reasoning below:
- Hides stains
The tattooing procedure is a bit messy in my opinion. Because during the procedure your clothes can easily get stained by tattoo ink or your bodily fluid. And black color clothing is good at hiding stains. So instead of wearing some other color, try to color black color clothing during the shoulder tattoo session. - Increases visibility
Black color can give your tattoo artist a better visual contrast against the skin for them to work on. Better visibility increases the chance of getting a flawless and better tattoo. - Provides comfort
When your clothing gets stained you may feel uncomfortable. Because visible stains would make anyone feel uncomfortable. When wearing a black color dress can easily hide stains and provide you with comfort.
How Long It Takes to Heal a Shoulder Tattoo?
Healing is the crucial phase for any sort of tattoo. As tattoos can easily get infected, faded, or distorted during the healing time. So everyone wants this healing phase to end as fast as possible. If you got a shoulder tattoo you may wonder how long it would take to heal your shoulder tattoo.
In general, a shoulder tattoo can heal within the first two weeks after getting the tattoo. But it can take more or less time depending on a few crucial factors,
- Such as:
- Strength of the immune system
- Current health condition
- Aftercare routine
- Presence of infection or other issues regarding tattoo
- Strength of the immune system: Our immune system is not equal. Some have weaker immune systems and some have stronger immune systems. So, those of us who have a stronger immune system would heal our shoulder tattoos faster compared to those who have a weaker immune system.
- Current health condition: If you have any autoimmune disease or any other disease then naturally your shoulder tattoo would heal much slower. Even minor sicknesses like the flu can delay the healing time because it weakens your immune system.
- Aftercare routine: Your aftercare routine can fasten the shoulder healing process. But if you do not take care of your tattoo, then the healing time may get delayed.
- Presence of infection: If your shoulder tattoo catches an infection then things will get a bit complicated. It will take much longer to heal and you may face tattoo distortion too.
FAQs
Who to reduce pain when getting a shoulder tattoo?
The tattooing procedure can be a bit terrifying and nerve-racking for some people. Who would not feel a bit scared when going under a needle? It is ok if you feel uneasy. Make sure to gather knowledge about the tattooing procedure and try to be more confident. You can reduce pain when getting a shoulder tattoo by staying confident and stress-free. Because stress can cause more pain during the tattooing procedure.
What to wear when getting a shoulder tattoo as a female?
As a female, you can wear a strapless top, sports bra, or tank top when getting a shoulder tattoo.
What color dress to wear when getting a shoulder tattoo?
You can wear a black color dress when getting a shoulder tattoo as it can conceal stains, provide better visual contrast, and provide you with comfort during the procedure.
Final Thoughts
I had many clients who would wear some good-looking clothes but they would restrict the area I had to work on. Constricting the body part you want to get tattooed on can hinder the artist’s work. As a result, you may not get a top-quality tattoo. So providing easy access to the body part you want to get a tattoo to your tattoo artist is crucial. Secondly wearing tight-fitted clothing can cause fabric fraction on your newly done tattoo. The wrong type of fabric can cause friction which could bruise the newly tattooed area. So choosing the right clothing when getting a shoulder tattoo is essential not only for a smooth procedure but also for a better healing process.
You should wear loose-fitted clothing that is made of soft and breathable fabric. Loose-fitted clothing can give easy access to the body part and soft fabric would not cause severe friction. The breathable quality of the fabric ensures the newly done tattoo gets enough air to start the healing process. You may wear a tank top, button-up, or zip-up shirt when getting a tattoo. If you go with a strapless dress then it is even better as it will not constrict the shoulder area at all.
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