So You're Thinking of Getting Your First Tattoo - A Look at the Pros And Cons Of Tattoos

On Getting Your First Tattoo: Pros And Cons Of Tattoos

So you're thinking of getting your first tattoo. Well, you're not alone. Tattoos are more popular than ever. And getting a new tattoo seems to be on our minds more than ever. On a recent trip to the beach, it seemed as if over half the sun worshipers were showing a bit of skin art somewhere on their bodies.

These days tattoos are more common than ever. Tattoos have gained quite a bit in popularity over the years, giving people a chance to stand out and broadcast who they really are. Men and women alike have tattoos, some covering their entire body. The choice is entirely up to you though, as you can get a tattoo in virtually any size you want.

Now I'm not knocking tattoos at all. You see, I got inked twice in my younger days. So I know the urge to get inked can be quite strong. I also know that tattoos can be addictive. But before getting inked, think about the pros and the cons of a tattoo.

The Pros of Tattoos

Tattoos allow a person to show the world their personality. Tattoos allow a person to stand out in a crowd for sure. Depending on the design of the tattoo, it might carry a symbolic meaning.

For the young person, a tattoo can definitely make you feel better about yourself. A lovely young woman with a beautiful butterfly on the shoulder can be very sexy. And the well-known tramp stamp tattoo on a ladies lower back can raise the passion fires in a male observer.

Yes, tattoos can make you feel good about yourself, but think about the cons of tattoos.

The Cons of Tattoos

For the weak of heart, let me tell you -- tattoos hurt. If your pain threshold is low, expect the pain to feel like red hot needles puncturing the skin. Now for some people, the pain is no big deal. But yes, tatts hurt for most of us mere mortals.

You also have the risk of infection when getting a tattoo. Always check out the tattoo studio for cleanliness and sanitation of all tattoo machines and inks.

Now here's the biggy of tattoo cons. TATTOOS ARE PERMANENT. Think about this for a second. Tattoos don't wash off. If you get a design you later regret, well sorry. It's permanent. And it will cost you an arm and a leg to have it removed.

My Personal Tattoo Removal Story

Here's a little personal note about tattoo removal.

When I got inked in Hong Kong while in the navy -- I was 19 at the time -- that beautiful tattoo cost me just $20US. Later, back in the states, I had the tattoo removed. (That's another story.) The tattoo removal cost $1,800.

And this was before laser tattoo removal. Back then the only way to remove a tattoo was to grind it off or do a skin graft. My surgeon ground it off (known as dermabrasion today). I still have the large ugly scars on my forearms now decades later.

Yes, there are pros and cons about getting your first tattoo. Take a little advice from a guy who has been there and done that. Think long and hard before getting a VISIBLE first tattoo.

You see, that was my big mistake when I got my first tattoo. I got it on my forearm.

Well, back in the real world that one forearm tattoo caused me much grief from employers, college admission officers, girls I wanted to date (and especially their parents), and even caused me problems advancing up the corporate ladder in health care management (my first job out of college).

Think Far Ahead Into Your Future...

Think ahead 10, 20, or 30 years. How will that tattoo fit into your career plans and lifestyle in 10 years? What if you go into a profession, or politics? Have you ever been treated by a doctor with a full sleeve tattoo? In all my years, I haven't. Just think about it.

For your first tattoo, get it somewhere not visible when wearing everyday clothes and a short sleeve shirt.

Yes, I know. Your mind's made up and you're going to get inked anyway. Well, I fully understand how you feel because I've been there and done that. Just remember this article before getting inked in a visible place on your body. And choose your first tattoo design carefully. You'll most likely be living with it the rest of your life.

If you're going to get inked and no one is going to change your mind, then check out this site: http://www.SexyTattooDesigns.info Thousands of designs and loaded with good tattoo info.

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How to Choose Your First Tattoo

One of the famous questions that most people ask themselves when considering tattooing is the type of tattoo that you are going to have for your first tattoo. Some of the other questions that may include are how painful is the tattoo going to be, what kind of care will be needed for the new tattoo and the tattoo shop where you are going to get it. The pain that will be felt will greatly depend on the area of the body you are going to have it placed. The tattoo shop, should have course, depend on your choice of the tattoo shop. Your first tattoo is basically a decision that you along should make. It should be the best tattoo for you because it is going to be your first one, and it should be given enough and careful thought. When thinking about the right image for your first tattoo, make sure that you have though about it real hard and you have considered all the different factors that will affect you. Your first tattoo should be something meaningful and something that will say something about you, so that you will not have to regret it in the near future.

This article will give some tips that will help you come into a decision about your first tattoo. However, you have to bear in mind that with any kind of design, make sure that you place some twist to it to make it your own.

Different Tattoo Designs

There are so many pictures or images that you can choose from, you can even design it yourself, or make changes to some of the pictures that you already have chosen at some tattoo shop or online designs so that it can be unique. You can choose from the different tattoos like tribal, celtic, animal, sci-fi, geek or portrait tattoos.

You can also choose from the black light UV tattoo which will look prominent under black light. Some of the popular tattoos today are stars, wings, kanji, crosses, names, words, dragons, butterflies and skulls.

Selecting the Right Tattoo for You

Here are some of the factors that you have to consider in choosing the right tattoo.

The Reason Why You Want the Tattoo

Since it is going to be your first tattoo, it should be something that is full of meaning. It can be something that may express time; your memorable experience in life that has change you or made a big difference in your life. Do not just get a tattoo because someone has just persuaded you to do so. Do not also do it just because you already have reached the right age and you could easily get one without asking permission from your parents or guardians. Think of every reason why you want to have that particular tattoo before getting it inked on your skin.

How This Tattoo Could Possibly Affect Your Present or Future Job

Think About the Design

Is the design something that you really want, did you design it or someone else just design it for you. Is the design something that you got from a particular picture? Does the meaning say something about you, or do you think it is perfect for you.

The Location of the Tattoo

When it comes to the location, you have to consider if the tattoo is something that you want to show to people all the time. If you want it to be private, then you can place it in an area where it will not be visible all the time. You also have to consider the type of body that you have, your body and type and your body curves.

Choosing the Right Tattoo Artist

Choose the artist that specializes on the type of tattoo that you want. You can always ask any recommendations from friends or relatives who already have tattoos. The cost of the tattoo will also play a vital role in having one. Make sure that the tattoo artist also is an experience one when it comes to tattooing.

What You Have To Do Before Getting a Tattoo

Before having a tattoo done, you have to make sure that the procedure will be done safely. You might think that your new tattoo is cool because it looks like a big scab, but still, it is considered a big wound. So just like any other wound, puncture, scrape, cut or penetration done to your skin, your tattoo will be prone to infection.

Get your immunizations up to date and decide where you will have your medical care done, if ever your tattoo gets infected.

Medical problem like heart disease, diabetes, allergies, skin disorders, immune system defects and other types of infections must be addressed to the doctor first so that he can give you proper precautions before you can have your tattoo.

If you are susceptible to having keloids, it is advisable to avoid having a tattoo.

You have to make sure that the tattoo studio where you will get your tattoo is clean and safe, see to it that all equipments that are going to be used are disposable and sterilized first. It is better if you could get some recommendations on some licensed tattoo shops or try to research whether the tattoo shop has any complaints about them.

Tattoo shops which are professional will take pride in their cleanliness. Some of the things that you have to look for in these tattoo shops are the autoclave, this is a device which utilizes steam, pressure and heat for the process of sterilization. Make sure that the tattoo artist who will get you the tattoo is licensed. The tattoo shop should follow the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Universal Precautions.

Once you see that the tattoo shop does not observe cleanliness, or if ever, you do not feel that comfortable, you can always have the option to choose another tattoo shop.

One of the major things that is probably holding you back from having your first tattoo is the fact that it is permanent, it stays on your skin forever.

Yes, tattoos, may last forever, however, if you have the resources to have laser tattoo removal done, then you can always get rid of it.

It is important that when you choose your first tattoo, it is something that you really want and it says something about you, so that you will not regret it.

If you take into considerations all of these factors, you will be able to decide without any problem. Just keep in mind that first tattoos should be something meaningful to you.

Dermabrasion for tattoo removal involves the fine excision of the upper layers of skin (also known as epidermis) as a procedure of actually removing the ink from the body. This method generally necessitates a number of repeated sessions.

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My First Tattoo - Know Just Exactly What to Expect

If you are toying with the idea of getting your first tattoo done, have questions about the whole process and are feeling anxiety about getting it done; relax because most everyone feels the same about their first tattoo. Most peoples minds play games with them and they develop a fear of the unknown. This feeling has an adverse effect on most and makes us shy away from doing some of the things that we really want to do, like getting my first tattoo, but are afraid to take a chance. Rolla coasters are a good example for most people.

The best way to overcome fears of the tattooing process is to read books and articles and become familiar with what exactly will be involved in the tattoo experience. This way you will be aware of each step in the process and know precisely what to expect before the needle starts buzzing. In this article, I will tell you, from start to finish, each step involved in tattooing.

Please bear in mind though, that I will be describing just exactly how the process should generally proceed. There will always be possibilities that different tattoo artists will do things differently than I describe or in some instances even skip some of these steps. This does not necessarily mean that the artist is wrong; it just means that there is more than one way to skin a cat. So to speak. But do be aware that any major variations from the process described below could be an indication of a problem. You may want to discuss with your artist, their procedures in advance.

Let us assume that you have nailed down your tattoo design and have your desired artist picked out. A truly professional artist will require that you show valid identification and proof of age. You may also have to fill out other paperwork and give some other types of personal data. This will vary from shop to shop and has little bearing on the actual process.

Most tattoo parlors will require payment for their services before they begin. This again will vary from shop to shop and each will vary in the types of payment that they accept. You should always request a receipt for your payment.

Now you are ready for the chair. This can be in an open area or a separate room. This will vary between shops and also vary with the part of the body you are having tattooed. If you prefer a private room, you should talk to parlor personnel about this in advance. There are varying styles of chairs for different tattoos, so a private room may not always be convenient for the parlor to furnish. Your artist should do everything in their power to make you feel comfortable and accommodate your requests or tell you why they cannot.

Preparing the tattoo area. Rubbing alcohol is the most common substance used to clean the area that will receive the tattoo. Once the area is cleaned, then the area will be shaved with a new disposable razor to remove any hair. The area has to be clean shaven because any presence of hair can cause problems. The immediate and surrounding area will be cleaned again, making sure there is no hair remaining and everything is set to proceed.

Making a stencil of your tattoo design. The artist will most likely use a thermal-fax machine to make a stencil of the tattoo design. The machine will transfer your design onto a special thermal type paper to be used as a stencil. The artist will then use the stencil to transfer the design onto your skin. To aid in the transfer process, the artist will use soap, water or even stick deodorant to moisten the skin. These substances allow the design to transfer better and provide more color on your skin. When the stencil is removed, you will have a purple-ish blue impression of the future tattoo remaining on your skin.

Your artist will begin preparing their tattoo equipment. The ink will be put into little small cups they call "ink caps". They will remove the needles and tubes from the sterile pouches and place them into their tattoo machine. A clean container of distilled water will be another of the items on the work table. This will be used for cleaning the needles during the tattoo process and for changing colors.

Now for the line work! A small amount of ointment will be placed over the transferred design. The ointment will help the transfer to stay longer and prevent it from being accidentally rubbed off. The ointment will also allow the needle to slide along the skin more smoothly. Now that the ointment is in place, the artist will begin their line work. At this point, is where your heart will start to race and panic will set in. Take slow, nice, deep breaths and try to relax. Do not hold your breath. The first minute or two will be the toughest. After a few minutes, your nerve endings will get used to the process and the pain will slowly subside.

Time for shading and color. After the line work is complete, your artist will breathe a little bit easier knowing that you have grown accustom to the process and they are done with the transfer. Now the artist can do their thing and begin adding shading and color; if your tattoo is going to have color. Depending on the size of your tattoo, your artist may switch to a different set of needles. The needles used for shading and color are called magnums (or mags). There is a possibility that they may even switch tattoo machines. The shading and coloring usually moves along quite rapidly and then your tattoo will be complete.

Now that your done, it is time for a little fun! The artist will clean the tattoo good, and some will even apply a hot towel to it. Then, if your tattoo is somewhat of a specialty or the artist needs to build up their portfolio they will ask to take a picture. If you brought a camera along, you might ask the artist to take a picture for yourself. The ointment that will be applied to the tattoo will cause a glaze. So, if you want a picture of the tattoo, it would be best to do it before the ointment is applied. If for some reason you do not want the artist to take a photo, just say no. You are not obligated in any way to let them do this.

To your body, your tattoo is a wound and will require care for proper healing. A protective layer of ointment will be applied to the tattoo to prevent airborne bacteria that may cause infections. A securely taped bandage will then be applied. Follow the recommendations of your artist when they tell you how long to leave the bandage in place and prepare for your tattoo aftercare.

Your artist should give you tattoo aftercare instructions. These instructions should be given both verbally, and written so that you can follow them at home. It is important that you listen, understand and follow these instructions. If they give you instructions or you want to make sure that you are doing the right thing to heal your new tattoo and preserve its lasting beauty you can read very detailed instructions on Tattoo Aftercare at http://www.thetattoooutlet.com/Tattoo-Aftercare-Instructions.html.

Tattoo aftercare is your responsibility and it is a very important period in the tattooing process. Caring for your tattoo properly will make your tattoos' appearance stunning and also ward off medical repercussions with infection.

If you are pleased with your tattoo and your experience as a whole, before you leave, thank your artist, and do not forget to tip them. Show them that you appreciate a job well done.

Your first tattoo can be the most enjoyable thing that you have ever done in your life or it can turn out to be a total disaster. This will depend upon the amount of research you put into your decision to get a first tattoo. There are numerous tattoo books and valuable information available on my site at http://www.thetattoooutlet.com Use these resources to gain all of the knowledge you will need to make your first tattoo experience exciting and memorable. There are also 700 Free Tattoo Designs that you can download to help with your search for that perfect tattoo design.

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Advice For Your First Tattoo

If you are looking to get your first tattoo your first question might be how painful is the experience. Well, I can tell you it's not that bad, I'd say most people could easily spend 1 hour getting inked before they started to feel the needles. And remember, your tattooist is experienced enough to know when to give you a break, they want this to be as good experience as you do.
Have you a tattoo design in mind? Getting this step right is essential as you don't want to have any regrets. It's ok to have a tattoo "just because it looks great", what I suggest is you look for something with a deeper meaning or message. Do you want a tattoo to show your independence, individuality, or perhaps in remembrance of a special occasion such as birth or death of a loved one?
If you want my advice don't rush into it, understand your tattoo is a lifelong commitment, and not a gift you can easily return. Yes, you can paint over an existing design or have it removed altogether, either way you will feel the pain in your wallet, long after the scarring has healed.
The hardest part of this journey is deciding what design you will be happy to display. My advice is find your design first before you venture into a tattoo parlor, or you may end up like me, and get talked into something you regret, and in my case, I am presently going through a costly cover up. There a number of quality tattoo designs sites to help you find the perfect design for you, and the best part is you can do all the looking from the comfort of your home, without feeling the pressure you sometimes feel at a parlor.
Once you have found the right tattoo, how do you find a good tattoo artist? Firstly, the most obvious, is word of mouth, you can see firsthand the quality of their work.
Secondly, a good tattoo design site will also have a parlor directory. For example, I know one site that has a list of over 10,000 tattoo parlors in 38 different countries, so you are bound to find one in your area (I know I did).
And finally, pay a visit to a number of parlors, check the sanitation quality, talk to the artist, and make up your mind if it feels right, then take a seat and get tattooed!
When your tattoo has been applied a protective layer of ointment will be applied to the tattoo to prevent infection, and you can ask your tattooist what cream to buy to help the healing, and they are not expensive (available at most supermarkets). For best results, apply the cream twice a day for 2 weeks after you have been inked, and stay away from salt water in this period, as the salt water may cause fading and dry skin, both things you don't want after your investment.
The good news is now is the perfect time to get inked as the competition between tattooists for your dollar is fierce, and because tattoo design has evolved to be regarded as an art form, and tattooist have become highly skilled artists who are not just doing their apprenticeship at a parlor, but are coming out of universities with visual art degrees, there is no better time than now to get tattooed.
I hope you enjoyed reading my article, if you would like to see more on tattoo designs then go to my site at: http://guidetotattoodesigns.com
I hope this guide has been of some benefit to you, and if you like to see some of the best and most popular tattoos, then have a look at my site at: http://guidetotattoodesigns.com/. I update my pictures on a regular basis and I'm always looking for the best designs, so if you want to email a photo of your best tattoo, I would be happy to put it on my site.