Getting a tattoo in Negril

When I got back from my last trip to Negril, I wanted to get a tattoo of something that would represent and remind me of my time there- and also remind me of my peaceful, almost spiritual state of mind while in Negril.

I saw a few signs saying "Tattoo". But I didn't look into it because I assumed they might not have the proper, clean tools, or the artist might not be qualified, etc.

I still have not gotten the tattoo, because I want to get it while in the right mood. (Sounds weird I know lol)

Anyways, I was thinking of getting it before my next trip, or after my next trip. But I realized I may never be in that right state until I am there... which leads me to wonder if anyone has information on how safe it would be to get a tattoo there, or if anyone has any stories or opinions to share, or knows of a safe, clean place.

Thanks!

You can get inked here, but two things to consider tht may change your mind:

Swimming - whether it be a pool, fresh water or salt water - should be avoided for at least 2 weeks.

Scabbing and Peeling
After a few days, you will notice some peeling and possibly a little scabbing. Excessive scabbing could indicate a poorly-done tattoo, but a little is sometimes normal and there is no need to panic. Apply warm moist compresses to the scabs for about 5 minutes 2-3 times a day to soften them and they will eventually come off on their own. (Do not apply ointment or lotion to a softened scab - wait for it to dry) You will also start to itch, just like a sunburn when it begins to heal. The advice here is, don't pick, and don't scratch! If the skin itches, slap it. If it is peeling, put lotion on it. And if it is scabbing, just leave it alone. Your tattoo is almost healed, and now is not the time to ruin it!


Protection from the sun
After your tattoo is healed, from now on, you will always want to protect it from the sun's ultraviolet rays. These can fade and damage a brilliant tattoo very fast. Before spending a lot of time in excessive heat, protect your tattoo with a minimum 30SPF sunblock.

So you will have to avoid swimming and avoid the sun while in Negril after the tattoo...

if you decide to get tattooed wait until your last day. as Rob stated swimming is a no no. washing the tattoo a couple times a day is recommended but soaking it is bad, and the chlorine and salt water will damage the ink.

afterwards no sun for 4 weeks, like none at all! even though the scabs might be gone the tissue is still repairing the 'damage' underneath, during this time the tattoo is susceptible to burning more than usual, and don't think sunscreen will be enough.

excessive scabbing can be a sign of poorly done tattoo but it can also be a sign of a poorly cared for tattoo, i personally would not recommend soaking the scabs with a compress, just wash it 2-3 times per day.

i have not personally checked out the shops around negril, but i will next time i'm there as a professional curiosity as that is what i have been doing for a living for the past 16yrs.

if you do decide to get a tattoo make sure you see them open the single use needles and tubes in front of you. but other things to watch for is cross contamination. if the artist is tattooing someone and then adjusts a lamp or pours some ink with dirty gloves that is a huge no no and in that case using disposable equipment will not protect you.

don't make impulsive decisions because you feel you need to be 'in the right mood' when you get it. as you know, tattoos are permanent and it's worth doing it right, whether you get it done in negril or back home safety and quality of the work are the most important factors.

"don't make impulsive decisions because you feel you need to be 'in the right mood' when you get it. as you know, tattoos are permanent and it's worth doing it right, whether you get it done in negril or back home safety and quality of the work are the most important factors." Jenb said it the best I have to say

Don't make me tell you about the drunken decision I made to get a tattoo in the Dominican Republic .............