Thinking about getting Inked for the First Time?

If you’re thinking about getting your first tattoo, chances are you have a lot of questions.  Where should I go?  Which design should I use?  Is it safe?  Here’s a list of common questions for the tattoo newbie and some straightforward answers that should put your mind at ease.

Are Tattoos Safe?

Perfectly so.  As long as you make good decisions based on firm research, your safety should not be compromised in any way by getting a tattoo.  There are laws regarding tattooing in every country, especially when it comes to age of consent, health inspections and general licenses to practise tattooing.  Make sure you know plenty about these laws before proceeding.

Does it Hurt?

Well to be quite frank, tattooing is being stabbed by a tiny needle over and over and over… etc.  So yes, it’s going to hurt a bit but how much really depends on your personal pain threshold.  It’s also not uncommon to bleed a little during tattooing so don’t be alarmed if you do.

What are the Risks?

As mentioned, providing you’ve done your research, the risks should be non-existent.  As long as the tattoo artist is vigilant in sterilising all of their tools, you will be safe.  However, if the artist doesn’t pay enough attention to cleanliness, you are at risk of contracting all sorts of diseases, so it’s worth double checking.

If you have sensitive skin, you might have an allergic reaction to the ink in the tattoo.  If you’re concerned, tell the tattoo artist beforehand so they’re aware of your delicate skin.  So as long as you are careful, there should be no risks whatsoever.

How Should I Choose a Tattoo Artist?

If you have friends with tattoos, ask them who they have used and who they like.  Don’t be afraid to ask people you don’t know.  If you spot a particularly attractive piece of body art, they’ll probably be flattered that you asked!  A great tattoo artist will take the time to talk with you and work out exactly what you want.  He or she will sketch designs for you and get your full agreement before going ahead.

Can I Get the Tattoo Removed?

Tattoos should really be treated as a lifelong decision.  It is possible to have them removed but it can take a while, not to mention a lot of money.  Laser tattoo removal involves breaking the ink down into tiny molecules so that they can be absorbed into the blood stream over time.  Laser tattoo removal can be quite painful, but less so than the actual tattoo itself.  Laser removal is far preferable to surgical procedures as there is no risk of infection and it involves a lot less pain.  The skin surrounding the tattoo is more likely to return to its previous state whereas surgical removal can leave the skin damaged.

For this reason, it’s always wise to be absolutely sure before having a tattoo.  There are more temporary options so why not try something out for a while before committing?