Placement, Sizing, and Artists: Tips for the Tattoo Novice

With each passing year, tattoos are increasingly becoming mainstream. A study from the Pew Research Center revealed that almost 40 percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and 29 have one or more permanent tattoos. Although tattoos are often associated with “heat of the moment” decision-making, it’s better to have a long hard think before you get the ink as removal is often costly and painful. Taking the time to research all the tattoo artists near you could mean the difference between a masterpiece and a big mistake. Let’s go over three tips all newbies to the world of tattoos need to consider.

Questions to Help You Pick the Ideal Design

Before you know what tattoo parlor you’re going to, however, you need to have a clear idea of what design you want. Is this tattoo just for fun, or does it have special significance for you? Do you want everyone to see this tattoo, or is it just for someone special? Does this tattoo best express your identity? How will this tattoo influence your professional life? Asking these questions will help inform the size, shape, color, and placement of your tattoo. A good tattoo artist will take the time to discuss all of your design queries in an initial conference. You should feel 100 percent confident with your chosen design before you give your tattoo artist the green light. Also keep in mind that getting a tattoo can be a painful experience for some. It really all depends on your pain tolerance and where you’re getting your tattoo. Some of the most sensitive areas of the body for tattoos include the ribs, torso, head, and anywhere over a bone.

Best & Worst Areas for Tattoo Longevity

Choosing where to place a tattoo is just as important as what you want your tattoo to be. While you could choose anywhere on your body, keep in mind that tattoos are more prone to stretch or fade in certain areas over time. One important point to consider is that tattoos will fade faster on skin that’s more exposed to sunlight on a regular basis. This is especially true if your tattoo is all in black. Some of the best areas of the body for tattoo longevity include the back, the upper thighs, the hairline, and the ribcage. By contrast, some of the worst areas for tattoos include the hands, abs, feet, and inner ears. If you want your unique piece of art to last a lifetime, location is everything.

Check Tattoo Parlors for Hygiene & Quality

Getting a tattoo isn’t a decision to be made lightly. It’s highly advised you take all the time you need researching the best tattoo parlors in your area until you’ve found a good fit. Some of the best tattoo artists in the business have long waiting lists and display their work on social media pages like Facebook and Instagram, making it easy to check out their specific style and specialty. Look for artists who’ve proven themselves making designs similar to the one you want. Of course, also ensure the tattoo parlor you’re going to is hygienic and that the tattoo artist has all the certifications required in your state. You should also ensure your tattoo artist only uses single-use needles on his/her customers. Most professional tattoo studios today also often have cosmetic tattooing insurance from trusted companies like marineagency.com. Asking about a shop’s certifications, licenses, and insurance policies can give you a good idea of whether or not they run a tight ship. If a shop takes the time to invest in protecting their business, they will also take the time to ensure you have a good experience.

Getting a tattoo has become a rite of passage for many young people in the West. If you follow the tips listed above, you should have no issues getting a high-quality tattoo that will last a lifetime and remind you why you love it time and time again.