Check hygiene standards: Not all tattoo parlors in Hanoi are equal. Make sure the studio uses disposable needles, gloves, and sterilized equipment. Silver Ant Tattoo
Review the artist portfolio: Look at healed tattoos (not just fresh ones) to assess how well their work ages. Silver Ant Tattoo
Ask about transparency: Confirm pricing, how touch-ups work, and whether aftercare instructions or kits are provided. Silver Ant Tattoo+1
Avoid very cheap places: If a studio quotes far below average, it may signal lower quality or hygiene risks. Silver Ant Tattoo+1
Define your idea clearly: Think about the meaning, theme, style (realism, minimalist, traditional), size, color, and placement. MaxDuong Tattoo
Consult with the artist: Make sure the artist specializes in the style you want. Misunderstandings can happen, especially with symbols or foreign language text. Silver Ant Tattoo
Consider timing: Don’t schedule a tattoo when you're ill, stressed, or about to travel — healing takes time, and bad timing can complicate it. Silver Ant Tattoo
Avoid alcohol & blood-thinners: In the 24–48 hours before your session, skip alcohol and medications like aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce bleeding risk. MaxDuong Tattoo
Eat and hydrate well: Have a solid meal before your appointment and drink plenty of water. Byrdie+1
Get enough sleep: A rested body handles tattooing better and recovers more efficiently. MaxDuong Tattoo
Bring your ID & payment: Most studios will ask for identification; also bring enough cash or a card to cover design, labor, and any tips. Byrdie
Wear loose, breathable clothing that gives easy access to the area to be tattooed. H2M Tattoo Studio+1
In Hanoi’s humid climate, breathable fabrics are especially helpful.
Know the aftercare routine: Wash your fresh tattoo gently with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap. H2M Tattoo Studio+1
Use healing cream: Apply a thin layer of a tattoo-safe, non-sticky healing cream 2–3 times per day. H2M Tattoo Studio
Wear loose clothing to let it breathe: Tight clothes can irritate or damage a fresh tattoo. H2M Tattoo Studio
Avoid risky activities: For example, no swimming, soaking in water, or intense sweating during the first couple of weeks. H2M Tattoo Studio
Protect from the sun: Keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight during initial healing to prevent fading. Mytour.vn
Don’t rush: Book your tattoo session in advance. Good studios (especially in the Old Quarter) can fill up. H2M Tattoo Studio
Avoid drinking before your session: Alcohol can increase bleeding and complicate the process. H2M Tattoo Studio
Keep future touch-ups in mind: Ask whether the studio offers touch-ups and for how long. H2M Tattoo Studio+1
Respect local culture: Be mindful of design choices, especially if using Vietnamese or religious symbols. Silver Ant Tattoo
Getting a tattoo in Hanoi can be a deeply personal and memorable part of your journey — but its success depends as much on what you do before the needle touches your skin as on the tattooing itself. By choosing a trustworthy studio, preparing your body and mind, communicating clearly with your artist, and planning for aftercare, you'll maximize both your safety and satisfaction.