A tattoo is a form of body modification made by inserting tattoo ink, dyes, and/or pigments, either indelible or temporary, into the dermis layer of the skin to form a design. Tattoo artists create these designs using several tattooing processes and techniques, including hand-tapped traditional tattoos and modern tattoo machines. The history of tattooing goes back to Neolithic times, practiced across the globe by many cultures, and the symbolism and impact of tattoos varies in different places and cultures.
Tattoos may be decorative (with no specific meaning), symbolic (with a specific meaning to the wearer), or pictorial (a depiction of a specific person or item). Many tattoos serve as rites of passage, marks of status and rank, symbols of religious and spiritual devotion, decorations for bravery, marks of fertility, pledges of love, amulets and talismans, protection, and as punishment, like the marks of outcasts, slaves and convicts. Extensive decorative tattooing has also been part of the work of performance artists such as tattooed ladies.
Today, people choose to be tattooed for artistic, cosmetic, sentimental/memorial, religious, and spiritual reasons, and to symbolize their belonging to or identification with particular groups, including criminal gangs (see criminal tattoos) or a particular ethnic group or law-abiding subculture. Tattoos may show how a person feels about a relative (commonly a parent or child) or about an unrelated person.
Tattoos can also be used for functional purposes, such as identification, permanent makeup, and medical purposes.
Here are a few things to consider if you’re thinking about getting a tattoo:
- Choose a design that has personal meaning to you. This could be a symbol that represents your values, a portrait of a loved one, or a quote that holds significance. Take your time to think about the design and make sure it’s something you’ll be happy with for the long term.
- Consider the placement of the tattoo. Different areas of the body have different levels of sensitivity and may heal differently. Think about whether you want the tattoo to be visible or more private, and keep in mind that certain areas may be more prone to fading over time.
- Research tattoo artists in your area. Look for someone who has a style that you like and a good reputation. It’s important to find an artist who is skilled and licensed, as well as someone you feel comfortable with.
- Be prepared for the tattoo process. It can be painful, especially on more sensitive areas of the body. Make sure to eat and hydrate beforehand, and consider taking over-the-counter pain medication if necessary.
- Take care of your tattoo after it’s done. Follow your tattoo artist’s instructions for proper aftercare, which may include cleaning the area and applying ointment. Avoid swimming or soaking the tattoo for a few weeks, and protect it from the sun to prevent fading.
Tattoos are a personal decision, and it’s important to carefully consider your choices before committing to one. But with the right design and proper care, a tattoo can be a beautiful and meaningful addition to your body.
