TATTOOS & BODY ART

When you decide you want a tattoo, you need to get one of which you’ll be proud and be prepared to show for the rest of your life. The tattoo must mean something that is special and unique to you to you both now and in the future. When you do decide to get a tattoo,  do it because you want to. It is your choice, so you need to answer a series of questions.

Are you planning to get a tattoo? Do you know how permanent it will be?

Tattoos have become very popular in the last few years for both men and women, but if you are in the market for one, why not try a Temporary Tattoo first? If you don’t like the design or where it is placed, it won’t last and you can try again with something different. Gals, a butterfly on your tooshie may be cute when you’re young, but when you’re 50? You won’t think so. Guys, the heart with your current girlfriend’s name in it maybe the sign of young love, but when you move on, when you marry a different girl, will you or she want to see it and be reminded of the past every day?

Do you like the design now and do you think you will like in 10, 15, 20 or more years?

If you answer ‘yes’ look through designs at a tattoo parlor, the flash sites or web sites such as Chopper Tattoo, Tattoo Me Now, Target Tattoos, and Infinite Tattoos, many of which have hundreds of designs from which to choose. You might want to design your own pattern. If you’re not artistic, Microsoft’s Clip Art could be a place to start. If you are creative you may wish to make modifications to it or design something completely different. Be as accurate and detailed you can be with your description. If you do, the happier you will be with the results. Spend time in making sure of your decision. The tattoo will be permanent.

Are you planning to get a tattoo because your friends have one?

If that’s your ‘reason’, don’t get a tattoo. Time, life and friends change, so be strong. Don’t get a tattoo just to fit in with your current crowd or ‘love interest’. Remember, the tattoo is a permanent mark on your body. If you are going to do that, do it for the right reason.

Where can you find an experienced and safe Tattoo Artist?

Clean equipment and a clean studio are without a doubt the most important considerations when dealing with tattoos. If the artist is not licensed, or not a professional, there will be little to no guarantee that the equipment is clean. An experienced professional will be knowledgeable in the proper cleansing of equipment, which is an absolute necessity, and also how to create the designs you will enjoy. Make sure the tattoo artist is licenced. To assure yourself of the the tattoo artist’s credentials, ask for referrals to previous customers.

Are you afraid of needles and can you stand the pain?

Getting a tattoo is not for the faint-hearted. It is painful, and some parts of the body are more sensitive than others. Tattoos  involve needles and you should really consider your level of tolerance to pain before signing up for a tattoo. Anesthetic creams are available and may be helpful in lessening the pain by numbing the skin.

Can you afford the tattoo?

Before you decide on a tattoo parlor to do your tattoo, always compare what is available to you and weigh your options. The higher quality tattoo parlors will cost quite a bit of money, more than the other parlors. This is to be expected, as the higher quality studios cost more to pay their artists and keep their parlors nice and clean. Also, the larger the tattoo, the larger the cost. Even the smallest tattoo can be expensive. Make sure you know all the costs and payment options before signing up to have the tattoo done.

How do you care for the tattoo site?

Without the proper care, your beautiful new tattoo can end up being your worst nightmare as the site is prone to infection. Keep the tattoo site covered until it is able to heal properly and keep it clean in the way, with the products, and for the time that the tattoo artist or physician recommends.

Follow these directions and that permanent tattoo will be something about which you’ll be proud, be prepared to show and will last for life.

All images courtesy of www.flickr.com