Choosing the Perfect Tattoo For You

If you’ve decided to get a new tattoo and don’t already have a design in mind there are a few things you should give careful consideration to.  Whatever you choose will be on you for a lifetime unless you undergo expensive laser removal or another tattoo session which could result in a clumsy looking cover up.  Taking the time to pick something you won’t tire of guarantees you an amazing tattoo that you’ll love for life.

What to Avoid

It’s your tattoo and it’s up to you, but some things should be avoided if you’re at all unsure about what you want.  Anything trendy or any fads may look great right now, but do you really want to be walking around with the same tattoo as everyone else?  And will that tattoo hold any personal meaning for you?

Offensive tattoos are another good one to avoid, because you may personally agree with the message but if your opinions change you’ll probably want that tattoo removed.  Keep in mind that important people in your life may take offense to your tattoo and while it is your own body, the feelings of your loved ones probably still matter to you.

Design or location should also be considered if you’re on a job path that may lead you to an occupation that doesn’t allow visible tattoos.  Being overlooked for a great opportunity because of a tattoo could be a real shame.  Names or boyfriends or girlfriends should also be given ample consideration because all too often a couple breaks up and those tattoos are sorely regretted.

Trial Your Tattoo

If you’re unsure of how a design will look on you, get a custom temporary tattoo to give you a better idea.  You may decide to change the colour, location, or design once you see the tattoo actually on you.  For a really basic idea of how something will look, using a rub on tattoo of a similar design could help you form a better opinion or give you new ideas for possible designs.

Get What You Want

It’s your body, so get what you want.  Tattoos that reflect your personality, ideas, beliefs, and passions will most likely hold the most significance for you and will be cherished for the rest of your life.  Some people get tattoos just because they like the look of a certain design while others get something that holds a deeper meaning for them.  Whatever you decide, just be sure to give it plenty of thought and never get tattooed in an altered state of mind, such as under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Caring For Your Tattoo

As your new tattoo heals you’ll need to take proper care of the tender skin and irritated area.  Improper care could have negative effects on your tattoo such as distorting the design or leaving it open to infection.  Tattoo aftercare isn’t overly complicated but you can save yourself quite a bit of pain and disappointment by following the right aftercare procedures.

The First Few Hours

After your tattoo is finished, your artist will apply some ointment or petroleum jelly and will bandage the area with gauze or perhaps even plastic sani-wrap.  You’ll likely be given after care instructions which will involve removing the bandage, washing gently with water and antibacterial soap, patting dry with a clean towel, applying more ointment, and either bandaging again or leaving the area uncovered.  Allowing your tattoo to breathe can help it to heal more quickly. Keeping It Clean and Moist

Carefully wash your tattoo about 2-3 times per day, pat dry with a clean towel, and apply an unscented, alcohol free moisturizer to keep it from drying out.  Because your skin was repeatedly punctured with a tiny needle, it is like an open wound that needs to be kept clean from bacteria to avoid infection.  Keeping it moisturized will prevent your skin from cracking or flaking off and will keep your tattoo intact while it heals.

Flaking and Scabbing

It’s perfectly normal for scabs to form and for your skin to show signs of flaking.  Even when keeping your tattoo moisturized, some skin will start to scab up or peel off.  While this is common, it’s important not to scratch or pick at the sloughing skin.  Washing the area gently and patting it dry is fine, but be sure you don’t rub the area too roughly with a towel or scratch at it when it starts to itch.  Applying moisturizers can help with the itching if it becomes too uncomfortable. Prolonged Care

Avoid soaking your tattoo in water for the first few weeks and keep it out of the sun for about a month.  UV rays can cause your tattoo to fade so be sure to always use sunblock on that area.  After the first month, you may choose to continue to avoid sun exposure as it can still cause fading long after your tattoo has healed.  Follow the advice of your tattoo artist and don’t be afraid to ask them any questions you may think of even after your tattoo has been completed.