Begin at the Beginning
Proper tattoo care actually begins before the ink is ever inserted under your skin. It requires the tattooist to practice proper sterilization and safety practices such as not reusing needles and keeping sanitary shop conditions. This is necessary to avoid spreading diseases, such as Hepatitis that attacks the liver, and preventing skin infections.
It is also important to make sure you are not allergic to the inks used during the tattoo process. Not all tattoo inks are formulated the same, so even if you have an existing tattoo, that doesn't mean you won't experience a reaction this time. Make sure you disclose any allergies you may have and, if possible, have a small skin test done before committing to a full design