Tattoos and piercings: a beginner’s guide

Tattoos and piercings are a great way to express yourself. Here are some things to consider before visiting a studio.

Tattoos
Once you’ve chosen a tattoo, you need to decide how visible you want it to be. While they don’t carry the same stigma they used to, keep in mind that face, hand and neck tattoos are still frowned upon, especially in professional settings.

It’s also a good idea to do some research on the design you’ve selected and make sure that you’re familiar with its meaning. Be careful when considering designs that are significant to members of other cultures or that include script that’s in a foreign language.

Another consideration is the many ways tattoos can change and fade over time. Sunlight can prematurely age your tattoo, as can friction from clothing. Fluctuations in weight can also alter your tattoo’s appearance.

Finally, if your pain tolerance is low, consider placing your tattoo in an area such as your calf, arm or shoulder. Afterwards, be sure to follow your artist’s instructions when it comes to aftercare. Not following their directions can lead to infections.

Piercings
The main things to think about when deciding where you want to get pierced are healing time and aftercare.

An eyebrow piercing will heal slowly because of all the sweat and dirt that accumulates on your brow.

Nipples are extremely sensitive, while tongue and lip piercings are more exposed to bacteria and require additional care.

Genital piercings should only be performed by highly experienced professionals, so do a lot of research before choosing a piercer. A poor piercing technique can result in irreversible damage either due to injury or infection.

To make sure your experience is a good one, take the time to thoroughly research local studios and artists before making a decision.