The Inkedway team worked on this article
Tattooing is a form of body modification where indelible ink is inserted beneath the epidermis layer of skin to change the pigment. Tattoos can be made by using tattoo machines or hand-poked with needles, though most tattoos are now made with an electric tattoo machine.
The word “tattoo” comes from Polynesian tatau which means “to strike.” Tattoos have been around for centuries and date back to at least 4000 BC in Ancient Egypt, Greece, and China. They were used as symbols of religious beliefs, social status, gang affiliation, or just fashion statements. Modern-day tattoos however often serve as memorials for people who want to remember lost loved ones or past accomplishments that they are proud of. There are a lot of reasons why people get inked today, but the most popular is to express yourself and your personality.
What are the risks?
Skin infection
Tattooing can cause blood-borne diseases if the equipment isn’t sterilized properly. Making sure that your artist uses sterile needles and works in a clean environment can help to minimize this risk. There is also the possibility of infection after your tattoo is finished, but despite popular belief, tattoos do not cause cancer or damage your DNA in any way.
But proven tattoo parlors and experienced tattoo artists as usual adhere to all sterility rules because they want to care about their clients and obviously reputation. If you’re looking for a guide on the best tattoo needle cartridges, you should know that outbreaks of hepatitis through tattoos in the past, decades ago, were due to poor-quality equipment that was unable to provide the necessary cleanliness. Things are different now. The equipment of world manufacturers fully protects against cross-infection, and disposable needles and cartridges are available in every tattoo parlor.
Pain
Tattoos also can be painful depending on where you get one (your ribs hurt more than your thigh for example), but that pain usually subsides within the first few weeks. Be aware that tattoos are permanent and there is no way to erase them completely. There are also many myths about the difficult healings of new tattoos. If you observe sterility, the quality of tattoo paints, the rules of care for the new tattoo, it will heal quickly enough and painlessly. There are many different tattoo aftercare products available that perform different functions. Some tattoo care products have antibacterial properties, while others provide tattoo healing creams. Moreover, numbing creams are available to use while the tattooing process and healing the tattoo.
Allergic reaction
Another point of tattooing is the quality of tattoo inks. In the past, the quality of the unsafe tattoo dyes and a lack of knowledge among tattoo artists led to many problems at all stages. Now everything has changed: a huge number of modern brands offer high-quality tattoo pigments that do not cause allergic reactions or irritation after inking. The composition of tattoo pigments also has no dangerous components. So now any tattoo, even red ink, is not able to cause infection or inflammation due to the composition of the components.
The exception could be when some people are allergic to certain chemical compounds which tattoo ink contains, so it is worth consulting with your doctor to provide medical advice before you decide on a tattoo.
Social disapproval
Many people who want to get a tattoo are stopped by the idea of social disapproval. Indeed, despite the fact that we live in a prejudice-free world, some professions and activities require a certain restraint and rigor in the demonstration of their appearance. Therefore, it is believed that if your social status requires a certain look, a tattoo is better to be done in a place inconspicuous to prying eyes.
What are the benefits of getting tattooed?
Aesthetic beauty
Tattoos come with both benefits and risks. The most obvious benefit is that tattoos can be very aesthetically pleasing. Many people like the look of tattoos or find them interesting, while some love to collect them and admire other people’s artwork on their skin.
Personal expression
Also, one of the greatest benefits of getting a tattoo is the ability to express yourself and your personality. It allows you to show others who you are and what you believe in. It is also a good way of telling your story without having to speak. Tattoos are able to help you to improve self-esteem and body image. They can also help you to tap into your spiritual side as well as allowing you to feel connected with those around you who have similar interests or experiences.
Covering scars
Tattooing also has more practical uses — some tattoo artists will cover up scars and birthmarks and can even improve your skin and complexion if done by a professional.
Fashion statement
Additionally, tattoos are permanent and because of this, they give people a sense of purpose or pride that they will have for the rest of their lives. They’re also not just used as fashion statements but are often used to express feelings or experiences that have shaped who a person is or how that person feels about a certain situation.
In memoriam
A lot of people get tattoos to remember their loved ones, whether it’s a lost family member, an ex-boyfriend/girlfriend, or a friend who has passed away. Some tattoos are so meaningful that they can even help some people cope with the loss of their loved ones.
Fun
If you are looking for a fun activity to do with your friends, then getting tattooed together is another way that people enjoy spending time together.
Bottom Line
It’s important to be aware of all the risks and benefits before getting a tattoo so that you can make the decision whether it fits your needs or not. It’s also important to make sure that you choose the right tattoo parlor and an experienced tattoo artist. The health risks of getting a tattoo can be reduced by choosing this carefully. It will also protect you from really bad tattoos, so check the tattoo artist’s portfolio in addition to his workplace ;).
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