It is strongly recommended not to drink alcohol for at least 48 hours after getting a tattoo. Alcohol thins the blood, which can cause excess bleeding during and after the tattoo process, interfering with proper clotting, scabbing, and healing of the open wound. Drinking alcohol too soon can also increase swelling, delay the healing process, raise the risk of infection, and potentially negatively affect the appearance of the tattoo. Waiting at least 48 hours allows your body to start healing the tattoo properly before alcohol disrupts the immune response. Additionally, it’s also advised to avoid drinking alcohol 24 hours before getting tattooed to prepare your body for the procedure. If alcohol is consumed after this recommended waiting period, it should be done in moderation with attention to hydration and monitoring the tattoo for any signs of delayed healing or irritation. In summary, the best practice is to abstain from alcohol for 24 hours before and at least 48 hours after a tattoo session to ensure optimal healing and protect the quality of the tattoo.