How to Prepare for a Tattoo Appointment in Colorado’s Dry Climate

Getting tattooed in Colorado is a one-of-a-kind experience — from our mountain views to our mile-high air. But that same dry, high-altitude climate that makes our state beautiful can also be rough on your skin, especially when you’re about to get tattooed.

If you’re getting your tattoo done at West Side Tattoo in Colorado Springs, here’s how to make sure your skin (and your artist) are fully prepped for the best possible results.

1. Hydrate Early — and Keep It Up

Colorado’s dry air dehydrates your skin faster than you might think. Start increasing your water intake at least 48 hours before your appointment and keep sipping throughout the day. Well-hydrated skin is softer, more elastic, and takes ink more evenly — meaning your tattoo heals better and looks sharper in the long run.

Tip: Avoid alcohol the night before your tattoo. It dehydrates your skin and thins your blood, both of which can make the process tougher for you and your artist.

2. Moisturize Daily Leading Up to Your Session

In the days before your tattoo, apply an unscented moisturizer (think CeraVe, Lubriderm, or Aquaphor) once or twice a day. Dry or flaky skin can make stenciling difficult and lead to uneven healing.

Skip heavy lotions right before your appointment — your artist needs a clean, oil-free surface to work on.

3. Avoid Sunburns and Tanning

We get it — it’s Colorado, the sun is everywhere. But sunburned or peeling skin can’t be tattooed. If you’ve spent time hiking, skiing, or just hanging outside, make sure your skin has fully healed before your session.

Pro tip: Apply SPF daily on exposed areas, especially in the weeks leading up to your tattoo.

4. Get a Good Night’s Sleep and Eat Before You Arrive

Tattoos are a form of controlled trauma — your body needs energy to handle it. A solid meal and full night’s rest help stabilize your blood sugar and make the process smoother.

Bring a snack if you’re doing a long session, especially for day-rate appointments.

5. Dress for Comfort (and Access)

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that gives your artist easy access to the area being tattooed. If you’re getting a leg or thigh piece, bring shorts. For ribs or torso tattoos, a loose tank or sports bra works best.

Colorado’s weather changes fast — layer up for comfort in both the waiting area and tattoo room.

6. Skip Lotions, Perfume, and Shaving the Morning Of

Your artist will clean and prep the area properly at the shop. Shaving at home can lead to micro-cuts, irritation, and even infection risk once tattooing begins. Leave that to the professionals.

7. Plan for the Aftercare in Colorado’s Dry Air

After your tattoo, dryness becomes your biggest enemy. You’ll want to:

• Keep it clean and lightly moisturized — over-moisturizing can suffocate the skin, under-moisturizing can cause cracking.

• Avoid hot showers and soaking — hot water strips oils and dries your healing skin even faster.

• Use fragrance-free products — Colorado air already does enough damage without adding irritation.

Bonus: Running a humidifier at night can help your tattoo heal smoother in our desert-dry climate.

8. Don’t Rush the Process

Colorado’s elevation might make your hike faster, but tattoo healing takes its time. Avoid picking or scratching, stay moisturized, and follow your artist’s aftercare instructions closely.

Final Thoughts

At West Side Tattoo, we see it all — dry winter skin, sunburned shoulders from summer hikes, and everything in between. The good news? With the right prep, your tattoo will heal beautifully no matter the season.

Whether you’re getting your first small piece or a full-day session, taking care of your skin before and after your appointment will make all the difference.

West Side Tattoo – Colorado Springs, CO

Open Tuesday–Saturday 11–7 | Sunday–Monday 10–3Book your consultation or tattoo session today: westsidetattoo.net