Tattoos: The Up, Downs and In-Between
February 25, 2010 | VReitano
I love tattoos; I actually have two of them, but sometimes I wonder if two will ever be enough. If it isn’t, how will I handle the urge to get more? If you’re thinking about getting a Tattoo, read on to learn about the process and to see if it’s right for you. Be aware, however, that it is highly addicting even if you don’t think it will happen to you. I got my first Tattoo when I graduated from High School. I had just turned 18 and knew that it was something I wanted to do. I got the lady bug you see above on my right foot. Thankfully, I have big feet, so there was plenty of space left to hide it if I wanted to or proudly display it. That is, until I got to Italy in the spring semester of my sophomore year. I got the bug again, and wanted something unique to remember my time in the “homeland” and so I had the words “Live for Today” inked around the lady bug. Both experiences were unique, but they showed me that Tattoos are generally done in the same way all over the world and so this post is designed to show you what happens in case you are wondering about getting one yourself.
First of all, if you’re going to do it on your feet get a pedicure before you do. You can’t get a pedicure for at least three weeks to a month after you get a Tattoo and so if you’re like me (someone who likes having pretty painted toes all year round) make sure you do it in advance. You really can’t get the body part wet in chlorine or have it in the sun for the same period of time, so that’s something to consider as well. I had gotten mine in June and didn’t realize this at first. Of course, by that time I had finally worked up the nerve to do it and so I couldn’t have held off, but if you are planning, it might be a good thing to do it now before spring and the sun, hits us.
Second, be careful about the design or words. My word “live” should really have been in the infinitive, but to me it’s fine as is. You, however, may want to consider whose name, or what words or theme your tattoo will have. It’s a lifetime choice, they don’t come off. So think carefully and maybe even draw it on first, that way you won’t be shocked when you see it completely done.
Third, be sure to pick a reputable place. Find out from friends who have tattoos or use the internet. Google searches and reviews often yield sound advice. Also look at the place before you get inked–if it looks dirty, it is dirty. That’s the end of it.
Fourth, get your tat! The day I went, I brought my stationary because that’s where the lady bug came from and decided I wanted 5 dots because I’m born in May. They enlarged the image to the size I wanted and then created an outline, which is a lot like a temporary rub-on tattoo, and place it on my skin. Explain to the artist that it’s your first time, they generally let someone sit with you and explain the process thoroughly before the needle ever hits your skin. Be comfortable – that’s the most important thing.
It hurts, I’m not going to lie. Some spots hurt more than others. Feet hurt a lot, but can be hidden rather easily, so it’s a good location if you don’t want it on your hip or back.
Once it’s done, be sure to take care of it. Each place is different, but some sort of cream is generally given to prevent scabbing. My tattoos both looked the same on the day the were done until today, two and four years later. I use a lot of sunscreen on them in the summer to prevent fading and tons of lotion in the winter to prevent dry skin. In the beginning I was much more cautious and paid a lot of attention to the spot specifically, but now it’s a part of me and I can have the same routine with my foot as I do with the rest of my skin.
It’s a tough decision, but it has to be your own. Don’t let anyone talk you into or out of getting one. I love mine and am still fascinated by how great they look. They make me feel courageous. I’m the girl in the pearls and cardigans, not someone you would think of as having a Tattoo. It’s my own little secret and I think it’s a great thing to have.
The down side–I’m definitely addicted. I’ve wanted another one for a while, but can’t work up the courage to withstand the pain. They are also quite expensive. When is enough, enough? One never knows. I don’t know if I’ll get another one; at this point in my life, I’d say no, but the urge is definitely resurfacing.
What do you think about tattoos? What do your parents think? My mom was very receptive, but not all parents are. Comment with some advice, tips or tricks of the tattoo trade.
