Getting a Tattoo
Getting a tattoo is a big decision that some people don’t think through properly. Here are some of the things you ought to consider.
The Pain
Getting a tattoo will hurt, but obviously pain is relative. Numbing creams are not recommended when having a tattoo, so you have to make sure you think you can handle the pain before you get it done, or else you may end up with only half a tattoo. It is probably best to start off with a smaller tattoo to make sure.
The Cost
The price of tattoos varies from place to place and depending on the size of the tattoo you want, but the general rule is, you get what you pay for, so don’t be tempted to just go with the cheapest offer.
Safety
Tattooing is safe as long as you go to a reputable artist who is following the recommended safety procedures.
Tattoo Removal
However long you think about having your tattoo, one day you might decide you don’t like it anymore. If you do, tattoo removal is possible and is done with lasers which break down the pigments in the ink. Dark colours respond best to this treatment.
Other Factors
To have a tattoo done, that part of your body needs to be free from hair. For most people this just means shaving, but if you are worried that your tattoo will be masked by hair or stubble later on, you may want to consider having laser hair removal before you get the tattoo. This is a permanent form of hair removal which has to be done before the tattoo because the lasers affect the colour pigments if done after. Laser hair removal has no serious side effects despite some people’s concerns about cancer and infertility.
You should also be aware that it is inadvisable to shave over a tattoo for 5-10 days after getting it. Also, if you tan regularly, your tattoo will fade.