Everything You Need To Know About Tattoos

If you are considering tattoos, keep in mind that they are a permanent part of your skin. Because tattoos are created with permanent ink being placed underneath the skin, they are a lifelong fixture unless you later decide to have them removed. Having a tattoo removed involves surgery, which is very expensive and carries it’s own risks. As with any surgery, there is always the possibility of complications. If you are thinking of getting tattoos, it’s best to make sure that you really want them in order to avoid having to later go through surgery just to remove them.

Tattoos can be very expensive depending on the size of the design. They can range from the tiniest of symbol to a large detailed image. Because tattoos can be priced very high, many parlors offer an unconventional, yet practical, way to purchase your design of choice. Many businesses offer a convenient layaway plan with the tattoos being created after the last payment is made. If you have the cash to pay upfront, you may be able to make an appointment and get the design imprinted on the same day as payment. Depending on the design and complexity of the tattoos that you select, the process can be brief or may last for hours.

When considering tattoos, it is important to do some research on the design parlor before hiring them. How long have they been in business? Have there been any complaints lodged against them with the local Better Business Bureau? If you have friends who also have tattoos, who do they recommend and what was their experience? It is very important to follow up with references and as much of a background check as you can possibly get before agreeing to have your tattoos created.

In your research, try to find out which businesses have the best history with make sure their equipment is clean. This is the most important thing to consider about tattoos because, if the business is not licensed or the artist is not a professional, there is no guarantee that their instruments are clean or properly maintained. Your health is your biggest concern so, if you are considering tattoos, be sure to select the best parlor for the job.

Tattoos are colorful and can be an expression of art if done correctly. They often reflect a person’s lifestyle, name of a spouse or other sentiment. At the same time, they can cause a concern of infection. If you decide that tattoos are right for you, be sure to follow the parlor’s instructions in order to maintain and preserve your tattoos. If you decide that butterfly tattoos or star tattoos are right for you, be sure to follow the parlor’s instructions in order to maintain and preserve your tattoos.

Get Yourself Marked - Get Tattooed

Tattooing has been around for centuries. No longer restricted to travelling performers, rough-n-tumble sailors and burly bikers, many in today's hip brigade are heading to the nearest tattoo artist to get themselves marked, as a sign of self-expression.

Tattoo is probably the most popular form of body adornment in America today. Current estimates have one in seven, or well over 43 million people in North America alone, who have one or more tattoos.

How painful is the entire process?

Pain is an interesting side effect of getting a tattoo. Some people don’t mind the pain so much. For others, they want the art very badly, but wish they could get it without the pain. Whatever group you fall into, know that tattoos do hurt. But it hurts less than a tooth extraction or even body waxing. It also depends on the spot you choose - it would hurt more when you get it done close to the bone, like on the ankle or close to the ribs. But the shoulders and lower back remain the favourites. Keep in mind that your mental state also has a lot to do with how well you handle the pain. You should not be overly tired or emotionally exhausted, nor too cold or too hot.

Tattoo Tips

Stay away from coloured tattoos, if you have tanned skin. Just stick to black and grey instead. But if you can't resist the appeal of a multiple hue, make sure you avoid the sun to keep it looking bright. As for infections, make sure you do your homework before taking the pricky plunge. First, check out the outlet and tattooist. Make sure you see some samples of work done there and see how clean it is. If you have skin which is very sensitive or have ailments like diabetes, avoid getting a tattoo.

Design Deluge

When it comes to designs, you're spoilt for choice. From bold tribal motifs to intricate celtic themes, from cutsie flowers and birds to heavy-duty skulls and demons, from oriental calligraphy to your own personal creations - take your pick. Popular choices include flowers, butterflies, dragons and barbed wine. The current trend, however, veers towards tribal designs which are bold and simple. And what if you get fed up of the design? Get it removed by laser or plastic surgery, which is not only expensive but can also leave a scar.

Needle Points

1. A tattoo takes approx two weeks to heal. Avoid getting it too wet during this time, as the ink could fade. Just wash it with hot soapy water three times a day, and dry gently.
2. After a tattoo is healed, apply a high SPF sunblock to keep the colours bright and beautiful.
3. Apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly on the area, before showering.
4. Don't scratch or peel the scab
5. Don't swim for a month
6. Don't expose it to the sun as the colours might fade
7. Do not sleep or rest on your tattoo
8. Keep the area covered till all the scab falls off. But once it's clear of scabs, apply lots of moisturiser
9. Do not apply any kind of oil unless recommended

Now you are ready for it. Moreover, you should know that having a tattoo is one of the 100 things you are supposed to do before passing away..., so..., what are you waiting for?