Opinion

7 Things to Know Before Getting a Tattoo

Photo of Khalil Bryant by Ashley Alonzo

Tattoos are painful yet fine pieces of art on a person’s skin; some people get tattoos with a meaning behind it, and others just because the situation is given. If you were thinking of getting a tattoo, make sure to read the following list. It can be helpful and mind-blowing.  

  1. Does it hurt? 

Yes some tattoos hurt more than others, especially if the surface has more bone than meat.  

  1. How long is it going to take? 

Depending on the size of the tattoo, that’s how long it would take. Don’t expect a sleeve to only take an hour or a small heart to take forever. 

  1. Done at home is cheaper than professional, right? 

STOP! If you opt for a tattoo made at home, make sure you’ve seen the tattoo artist's curriculum and recommendations. Tattoos professionally done are more expensive yet more worth it, because you might end up with a funny looking trace rather than a clean and fine tattoo you will love seeing on your skin every day. 

  1. Would I like it? 

If you ask this question to yourself or others, answer is ABORT MISSION. If you're not sure of loving what you want, then don’t get one. It would be a waste of your time and money. 

  1. I want a tattoo but don’t know what I want.

If you really don’t know what you want, do not just walk into a shop expecting greatness. Tattoo artists can help you decide on something you like, not on something you do not have any idea about. 

  1. Tanning before a tattoo?

Worst mistake ever. Real tattoo artists will send you home as soon as they see you; not-so-real tattoo artist will mess up your tanned skin.   

  1. If the tattoo is done at a shop, then the place is definitely reliable?

This is not always the case. It is better to look up the place and the tattoo artists beforehand, especially because some artists are better at doing tattoos than others. So it is better to make sure you get your tattoo with the best person in the shop for that category rather than just getting one done by anybody.