Tattoos - Things to consider

Before you get a tattoo. Take a breath and make sure you know what you are doing.

1. Why do you want to get the tattoo? Is it to fit in? Get back at your parents? To show your love for someone? - Just make sure it is for the right reason. If you are wanting to get back at your parents, having their name permanently adhered to your shoulder will only be a constant reminder of them.

2. Do you fully understand the health risks of getting a tattoo? Not just the information within this site – it is extremely limited, but talk with a trained person (doctor, nurse, etc.) so you can get a better picture about the health impact.

3. It is permanent. Are you 100% sure you know what you want and are you 100% sure you know where you want to have it placed? I have many friends who got tats about 10 years ago and now wish they wouldn’t have. Think long term. Will this effect my job potential down the road? See some samples of what they can do. Ask for a brochure.

4. Do you know the artist? What is their reputation? Anyone you know used them before? Do they have any state required certifications? This is a very important thing to consider.

5. Nail down the cost of the tattoo. You don’t want any surprises and you don’t want to make the person with a needle sticking, ink imbedding device upset with you.

6. Pick back up on # 3 above. It is permanent.

7. Tattoos can be painful. Not just the application of the tattoo, but the recovery, scabbing, needles, etc. Make sure you know what you should and should not do after getting a tattoo.