Get Yourself Marked - Get Tattooed

Tattooing has been around for centuries. No longer restricted to travelling performers, rough-n-tumble sailors and burly bikers, many in today's hip brigade are heading to the nearest tattoo artist to get themselves marked, as a sign of self-expression.

Tattoo is probably the most popular form of body adornment in America today. Current estimates have one in seven, or well over 43 million people in North America alone, who have one or more tattoos.

How painful is the entire process?

Pain is an interesting side effect of getting a tattoo. Some people don�t mind the pain so much. For others, they want the art very badly, but wish they could get it without the pain. Whatever group you fall into, know that tattoos do hurt. But it hurts less than a tooth extraction or even body waxing. It also depends on the spot you choose - it would hurt more when you get it done close to the bone, like on the ankle or close to the ribs. But the shoulders and lower back remain the favourites. Keep in mind that your mental state also has a lot to do with how well you handle the pain. You should not be overly tired or emotionally exhausted, nor too cold or too hot.

Tattoo Tips

Stay away from coloured tattoos, if you have tanned skin. Just stick to black and grey instead. But if you can't resist the appeal of a multiple hue, make sure you avoid the sun to keep it looking bright. As for infections, make sure you do your homework before taking the pricky plunge. First, check out the outlet and tattooist. Make sure you see some samples of work done there and see how clean it is. If you have skin which is very sensitive or have ailments like diabetes, avoid getting a tattoo.

Design Deluge
When it comes to designs, you're spoilt for choice. From bold tribal motifs to intricate celtic themes, from cutsie flowers and birds to heavy-duty skulls and demons, from oriental calligraphy to your own personal creations - take your pick. Popular choices include flowers, butterflies, dragons and barbed wine. The current trend, however, veers towards tribal designs which are bold and simple. And what if you get fed up of the design? Get it removed by laser or plastic surgery, which is not only expensive but can also leave a scar.

Needle Points

1. A tattoo takes approx two weeks to heal. Avoid getting it too wet during this time, as the ink could fade. Just wash it with hot soapy water three times a day, and dry gently.
2. After a tattoo is healed, apply a high SPF sunblock to keep the colours bright and beautiful.
3. Apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly on the area, before showering.
4. Don't scratch or peel the scab
5. Don't swim for a month
6. Don't expose it to the sun as the colours might fade
7. Do not sleep or rest on your tattoo
8. Keep the area covered till all the scab falls off. But once it's clear of scabs, apply lots of moisturiser
9. Do not apply any kind of oil unless recommended

Now you are ready for it. Moreover, you should know that having a tattoo is one of the 100 things you are supposed to do before passing away..., so..., what are you waiting for?