Tattoos Are For a Lifetime
This post was written as part of Peeve Week 2: Misconceptions.
I do not like tattoos. It is highly unlikely I will ever get one. But some get tattoos because of sentimental reasons, or on a whim. Here are some reasons you should never get a tattoo if you have never gotten one already.
Fifty Percent of People Want Their Tattoos Removed
The American Society of Dermatologic Surgery estimates that roughly fifty percent of people who get tattoos want them removed. I imagine this is not taking into consideration the amount of people dissatisfied with their existing tattoo, but do not want it removed.
Parents often warn teenagers that tattoos are a “phase” and that the teenager will grow out of it. Unfortunately, teenagers are in their own little vacuum and get tattoos regardless of parental advise. My advise to any teenagers is to wait to see what kind of occupation awaits after college. For example, it wouldn’t be wise to go tattoo crazy in high school and college and then decide to become a politician or pastor.
Tattoo Removal is Expensive
In case you get that tattoo and do want it removed, it is helpful to note the costs involved. Removal of even small tattoos can cost thousands of dollars. That tattoo that was bought on a whim can mean years of debt paybacks if a loan is taken out to remove it.
Tattoo Removal is Painful
Tattoos are removed through lasers, dermabrasion, and/or surgical excision.
Dermabrasion is when the skin is “sanded” so that the tattoo can be removed. I could imagine this technique would be quite painful since the tattoo is literally being rubbed right out of your skin.
The surgical excision is when the surgeon removes the tattoo with a scalpel. I wouldn’t want this done on large tattoos. So now instead of a tattoo is a nice little scar.
Tattoos are Unprofessional
Depending on where the tattoo is located, tattoos can be unprofessional. Even tattoos intentionally placed out of sight and out of mind can cause embarrassment on wedding days, days on the beach, and other activities.
When finding that day job, certain people view tattoos as being unprofessional. I personally find it very unprofessional to see people having tattoos on the backs of their necks, hands, and other visible places.
If you get a job at Hot Topic, there’s nothing unprofessional about having a tattoo. In other places, however, tattoos can actually prevent you from being hired.
Conclusion
It’s a common misconception that tattoos will be loved by its owner for a lifetime. Unfortunately, in most cases, this just isn’t true.
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I wholeheartedly agree with you.
I think the biggest misconception here is that tattoos embellish your body, make it look more beautiful. And shows like Miami Ink sure don’t make it easier for teenager and even adults to see the truth beyond that false belief.
If someone can’t resist having a tattoo, why not get a temporary one – they look exactly the same, with one big advantage – they can be easily removed.
You’re right, tattoos are forever, and if today a person is surrounded by people who like tattoos and find them cool, tomorrow that person can be among a different crowd that doesn’t appreciate tattoos and finds them disgusting and humiliating.
Temporary tattoos are a nice compromise. I never have seen the “Miami Ink” show. Then again, those types of shows/magazines/websites don’t really appeal to me.
I’ve never seen Miami Ink either… just saw a few seconds of this shows promo during the commercial break.
On the other hand tattoos can be an important statement and a meaningful reminder about certain phases in your life. I have a tattoo, as do most of the people I work with and most of the people I know away from the office.
Despite being such a conformist act in current times it still carries with it the idea of non-conformity which is something I needed at that time in my life. I also intend another, larger one, one day.
These are of course all fairly small symbolic tattoos and not the flaming skulls or naked ladies that some have, so I can’t envisage any modern employer, not in Britain anyway, turning someone down for a job because of them.
I certainly agree that waiting until after you can get one is a good idea, I recently heard from a friend that just got a tattoo having followed that advice that I gave her and is happier with it as a result.
I’ve seen some tattoos that are really nice and some may be symbolic… my ex-bf’s mother has tattoos of ‘friendship’ and ‘female’ characters in Chinese. They aren’t in very private places though…
I do think a lot of very young people get tattoo’s without truly thinking that it may be a phase and may pass… my friends are extremely intent on getting a huge flag/cross hybrid tattooed on their back as soon as their old enough (simply for seeing it in a movie and it looked good)… they don’t have any thoughts about the fact that one day, they might not want a huge tattoo on their back anymore.
It’s also very easy to get a tattoo… Tattoo places barely try to remind you that they’re permanent, instead they are very encouraging that tattoo’s are awesome and make you look cool! Not all the bad stuff… even if you’re under 18, as long as you parents sign you can get a tattoo. Some dodgy places don’t even care about under age.
I’m still of the opinion that tattoos should be well thought out and re-touched every now and then if for the long haul. I’d rather err on the side of caution.
i have two sleeve tattoos
and a massive design on my neck
ive never had problems with work
and im now on over $60,000 dollars a year without bonuses
so my message to any boy or girl thinking of getting inked is this
aslong as your old enough
and sure of what you want
go get it
its your body do what you wish with it
I love my tattoos about 9 of them and im not going to stop until my arms are completly sleeved . I feel if you dont like my ink then don’t look at them .If they offend you then im not sorry it’s a figure of my own expression.
yea, So you do have some good points about getting something you wont regret, but what exactly is professional? Are you that close minded that you think all tattoos are bad? Tattoos have been around since cavemen bro…
alot of cultures won’t accept you unless you get tattooed. Some people get tattoos to remind them of a lost loved one, or a time, or experience that changed their lives… and honestly… I think the pic of the girl with all the tattoos is very beautiful. I know c.e.o.’s of large companies who are covered. Art is art no matter what the canvas. So whats so wrong with making your body more beautiful? And as for people that don’t accept it…so what. I don’t wanna be around those kinda people anyway…thanx….Jeremy…tattoo artist, Randy’s smoke n holes
New Port Richey, FL
I love my two tattoos. I feel so happy everytime I see them. They are a great form of expression for me. Mine are in hidden places so people will only see them if I want them to. How could my tattoos ever embarass me?
Tattoos are great expressions of ideas, experiences, and beliefs. Most importantly, they are great reflections of character and personal values. I have seen many tattoos that are cool, beautiful, expressive. However, I have also seen racist, pornographic, evil, demented tattoos that demoralize the art. Yes, it is permanent. The permanence is what makes it a very sacred art. In order to avoid regret, you must harmonize creativity with what is foundational in your beliefs and personal values. People who find fault with you at the sight of ink, unless the expression in itself is immoral or offensive, on your skin are shallow and ignorant of what really defines a person.
Im about to get my second tattoo this afternoon- on my forearm (im female) and i have been getting very mixed reactions to where im choosing to get it. some have been surprised and some have been supportive and some think im mental. i am a professional and i work in a clinic environment but i think you have the right to choose and its your body. Besides if you can do it and have the confidence to wear it with pride – GO FOR IT!!
Keep up the good comments all. I appreciate them. There’s no need to re-state my opinion, but I do appreciate everybody’s take on the topic.
I saw a movie today called, “The Brave One.” One of the more prominent characters had a very visible tattoo on his neck and he was a New York Police Detective. There’s no “moral” of this story, but it’s just an observation I made today.
Again, thanks for all the comments.
Personally, tattoo’s are awesome. Who cares if your gonna regret a tattoo..hell i do after just 2 years. do i care? NO. its a part of life im always gonna have and always remember. people who look down on people with tattoos need to sit down and evaluate themselves. those who want to throw religion in there can screw off. a sin is a sin and there is no lesser sin. adultry is the same as marking your body is the same as taking the lords name in vain is the same as any other bad thing you can do. how can you look at a painting and think its beautiful and look at a body and think its the devil? just an opinion from a 21 year old…
hey im 22 years old and in my 3rd year. i want to go to med school at in OK. i recently got a tattoo on my wrist that is very small and it says LOVE. my parents freaked out because they think people will not take me serious as a doctor and would rather go to the young DR without tattoo then me. i just want some opinions on this because i think its bull.
although it would be hard to cover it up with short sleeves.(impossible) i do have a lip and nose piercing and my parents are fine with that….? i love my tatto and it will forever remind me of this time in my life where everything has been perfict. it symbolizes that I AM LOVED. Comments PLease.
I am trying to decide whether to have one or not – have been deciding for a while now – what to have so does not look tacky – want some cool but not stupid – sort of like a fairy rising out of the mist like mystic looking but not to big not to small – i really like one that says something ?? this whole thing probably sounds really lame maybe should just forget it
patricia,
You can always try a temp and see how you like it. Some of the commenters above are tattoo artists with links to their sites. Perhaps you can check them out. Do your research, but the ultimate person who has to decide is you. Take care.
Well, well , well….this is an interesting topic for me. I have several tattoos and it recently became an issue at my job of six years. I am a professional and we are required to dress business casual. I have a tattoos on my hand, both wrist and several other parts of my body. I had these tattoos when I was hired. I was recently told by my job that I have to wear long sleeves blouses or cover them up with bandages because some of the other employees have been saying that it is offensive to them. Now, I have a rose on my hand, a sparrow on one wrist and an om symbol on my other wrist,how that is offensive, I dont know. I flat out refused. I explained that I loved my job and I had planned to retire with them but hell if I was going to wear a long sleeve blouse or bandages for the next 30 years. I also told them that I was offended that this would be brought up and that if this was going to be an huge issue let me know now and I will find another job. I was told that they would get back to me and to this day (two months later) nothing has been said. I feel working at this place for six years, never disciplined, never late, very reliable and have been recognized several times for being one of the top five employees, that should speak for itself not what is inked on my skin.
I do not understand this at all, why does society have such issues with tattoos??? I understand back in the day there were only a certain type of people that would get tattoos but that has changed. My tattoos do not define who I am, they are an expression of me. Dont sit there and judge me because I have a different way of expressing myself, just except that we are different and move on. I am still a quiet, hardworking, laid back, single mother of two, who owes her own house, car, and lives a full happy life with or without my tattoos.
FYI..I am 34 years old and just got another piece done on friday. I have been getting tats since I was 18. My advice is to really think about what you want and where you want it. Think about it for a couple of months. But more importantly check out an artist before you let them tattoo you. I have seen so many people just walk in a shop and say I want this and just let anyone tattoo them. ASK TO SEE PICTURES OF ARTIST WORK!! REALLY LOOK AT THE PICTURES, THE LINES, THE SHADING, THE OVERALL WORK. Ask the artist how long they have been tattooing. Some artist do better with certain pieces, check it out. I am telling you this from experience, always, always check out an artist before letting them tattoo you!!
Why do you care if someone gets a tattoo?
If it makes the person happy then leave them alone.
Mind your self. I think it’s stupid to worry about that kind of stuff. It’s part of the person & it is there choice. My lord Grow up people. Mind your self!
BTW, I LOVE Tattoos.
I am a tattoo freak
I have several tattoos…including a 1/2 sleeve on my right arm. I also work as a medical receptionist in a very busy family practice and my professionalism has NEVER been questioned. I am smart enough, however, to know how to present myself in a very professional manor in the first place. Maybe that is the reason why having tattoos is considered “unprofessional”…because not every one who has them also has a brain to go along with them.
Are you suggesting the girl in the photo is somehow less attractive for having tattoos? I think she is hot. Could I have her phone number please?
You need to broaden your prespective on beauty, mate.
I’m actually the girl in the picture! I also work in the industry as a body piercer, and have my hopes set on becomming a forensic anthropologist. Is it going to be hard for me to do so because of my tattoos, yeah probably. However, tattoos and piercings are becomming a lot more mainstreem. More and more people are getting tattoos, and not just little pieces on their ankles or lower backs. I see people walk into my shop everyday working on full back pieces or full sleves. As far as removal, believe it or not people who are heavily tattooed have taken this into consideration and we realize how permanent tattoos are. And more often then not, i see people getting coverups on old tattoos. I know some tattoo artists are getting stuff removed, only because the piece is too big to cover up and they want to put something elce there. When i was in Europe four years ago i saw big buisness men with tattooed hand and necks. My question is if more people are getting heavily tattooed, in the furture how are you going to be able the distiguish between whether someone is professional based on the fact that someone has a tattoo or not? Eventually it’s not going to matter. Five years ago law firms wouldn’t let women have nostril piercings, and now many places will let people have mulitple ear piecings, and nostril piecings. It’s just a step into it becomming very acceptible.
Hey CupCake. Just checked out your MySpace. Pretty interesting that I have your picture on my site. I got it from iStockPhoto and it’s drawn most of the commenters here through Google image search. So kudos to the photographer and you for letting it out there for sale.
I agree that tattoos and piercings are becoming more mainstream, and I personally wouldn’t “not hire” someone because of them, but I know a lot of people who would.
you freak how can u say tattoos are unprofessional ive got tattoos on my hands and neck and i got a job in a nursing home there are a few normal people that dont asume your not good enough for job just because youve got tattoos people shouldnt care what u look like only up their own arse snobs like you i might be over reacting i dont really care people like u piss me off and need to keep their oppinions to their self!
ok i understand why people want to get tattoo’s removed, maybey if its say for professional reasons. but most people do get some sort of memorial tattoo or get a tattoo of something that means something to them. ive got two tattoos and plan on getting a sleeve. maybey rather than having a whole uselesss thread about how they are so terrible, why not take the energy you people waste on this and educate people about tattoo removal. atleast it would make them think twice about a tattoo on a whim. if people waste the money to put the tattoos there in the first place they would be willing to leave it there from then on. all i see here are the cons about tattoos. why are you people always so one sided? no matter what i talk about with anyone i always list pros and cons. the people here are to judgemental. if to you a tattoo is embareccing i think you should take your head out of your ass. people get tattoos to be noticed. they want someone passing by to look at there arm or neck or what ever to say hey thats cool. tattooing is the ultimate form of art for the fact that ink is your medium and humans are the canvas. anyone ashamed of themselves because of a tattoo should first look in the mirror and think about why they got one in the first place. when people get dissatisfied with there artwork they often nit pick the small details in it or, they let people like you interfere with what they wanted and absorbe the bullshit you spew out here. telling people what to think about a tattoo is rediculous. and just because you post a few of the CONS here isnt going to slow down the tattoo industry. yes it has become a fad in a way, but people who are to easilly influenced should never get a tattoo. it should be a decision one makes on there own with no influence from friends. they should do research of what they want and make sure they can go through with it. and hey you notice how i listed pros and cons here? im not that much of a dick like the rest of you. now pull up your pants and be a big kid now here people. stop complaining. life is a learning experiance for us all. and if we dont get out our urges, then how can you finish life and say ive done EVERYTHING ive wanted to do? on this note i hope you read all of this and i hope you decide to pull up your pants and take your minds out of the shitter so to speak. and a “good”bye to all those of you who are open minded.
george
Hi I was browsing the net for tattoo pictures. I have recently signed in to have a tatto done on my left arm. taht will be next March. Meanwhile I am musing.. My tatto will be a bracelet with hearts and tiny flowers in it. What do you think?
I am just appalled that people are discriminatory because of tattoos. I can’t wrap my head around how a person is less qualified for a job on the basis that they have tattoos. Provided that you are competent and educated enough to preform the tasks required your HIRED in my mind. There should be legislation on this issue.
I am the proud owner of about 13 tattoos. It’s getting to the point that they will become one. I also work in the medical field and find that I am personally a better performer in my profession than a lot of other folks.(even tattooed) While there is no doubt a socio-economic association with ink (i.e.you are more likely to see a carpenter with a tattoo than an accountant) No one should be discriminated against for having them.
Frankly when I have seen people who have been required to “cover-up” tattoos or piercings with tape or band-aids I find THAT to be ridiculous and distracting.
Oh, and why do you dislike them?
Uh, well im 36 years old and just had my kids nicknames tattooed on my knuckles in their favorite colors, I also have about 50-60 hours of other work all over my body. Im a union pipefitter and make like 75k a year and could care less if anyone is offended or disgusted with my tattoo’s. In todays world, its like, nobody has anything better to do except get into other folks business.
Give it a rest, use your energy to stop global warming or something, war in Africa, gun violence in the States, something! Its beyond pathetic and seriously feminine for a male to be griping about tattoo’s being disgusting and a bad decision. How bout this, go trade your vagina in for a penis, and then we’ll talk.
First of all I would like to say that I have been tattoing for about 12 years now and I would really have to say that the author of this blog should really research the info that is being put out. I can honestly say that at least 90 percent of my clients are professional, mostly nurses and salon owners, but I have tattooed just about any profession you can name including doctors, lawyers, judges, teachers and pastors. yes I said pastors. If anybody thinks that tattoos are for just sailors and bikers you better look again. I have tattooed people 18 – 85 and I can’t tell you the thrill I get when I see the glow in there eyes and the smiles on their face when they get to see their finished piece of body art. people that say they wouldn’t get a tattoo are simply afraid of what it may feel like and obviously to unsure of who they really are to have any sort lifelong commitment. not to mention they will never have that feeling of being different and will always be nothing but sheep in the flock. on another point to say tattoos are ugly is a pretty bold statement and I am assuming that anyone who says so had better not have any sort of art or pictures hanging in their home because the only differenc between collectors of art and tattooed people is that we like to take ours with us. what other purchase can you ever make in your life that nobody can take from you, you will always have it with you even to the grave. personally I can’t think of anything that is going to last me that long other my skin art.
I have 3 tattoo’s. One on each upper arm and a huge one on my back. I am 44 an didn’t get my first till 30.
I would recommend anyone wanting one to wait till they are older and really think about it. 2 of my tattoo’s took over a year in planning and application.
I would also recommend getting them in areas you can easily cover with clothes, all mine can be hidden with a t-shirt or I can cruise around in a singlet and only show the ones on my arm.
Chose your artist with great care and don’t rush in. Be respectful to your artist, heed his advice, work with him and you will receive a piece of art that you will wear to the grave.
I personally think this site tells the worst about tattoo’s and none of the good side of it all. It feels great to have them in so many ways. The whole experience is pretty radical too.
One should bear in mind that 40% on males in Australia now have at least one tattoo.
I think if you want to get a tattoo go ahead just as long as your sure thats what you want or if it really means something to you! I myself have two tattoos and plan on getting more i don’t personally think that theres anything wrong with tattoos and no one is going to change my mind on that i personally would recommend getting something that represents your life because its on YOUR body and I have my tattoos and i absolutely love both of them so use ur own judgement and not just someone elses opinion!!!
I have 5 tattoos so far. I got them all in spots that I could cover up if I didn’t want people to know I had them. I understand the problem of getting hired because I live in Utah and I get dirty looks just walking around the grocery store. That’s why I got my tattoos in spots I could cover and nobody would know the difference. I highly suggest putting several months of thought into your tattoos though. I drew pictures, drew on myself, and played around with designs for 6 months to a year before getting any of my tattoos. They all mean something really special to me and I love them.
I am 39 years old, a professional Architect and Writer and I have 3 tattoos and plan to get at least one more. I didn’t get my first ones until earlier this year, just before my birthday. I love them. They are all in subtile (though not all invisible) places, and they are all very special and meaningful to me. It took me until this time in my life to discover what things were going to have enduring meaning to me, and what images could capture that. As I’ve done that, the images that I’ve designed (I’ve designed all of my own) have become more than just pictures that I’m painting on my skin. It feels to me as though I’m expressing on my body, ideas that have become as much a part of me as my body itself. For me, tattoos have become a way of making these other aspects of who I am part of how I look. I have thought through each one carefully, and now that they are on my skin, it gives me a thrill every time I see them. It’s as if those ideas have become even more a part of me as a result of that act of consecration.
As far as how they affect my professional life, I have recieved double-takes from clients when they notice the more immediately visible ones. My attitude about it is, if that bothers them then I wasn’t supposed to do that job. As Carl Jung famously said about his practice, “God sends you your patients.”
In my Opinion, i think Tattoos are a way of expression. It’s not for everyone and if you go crazy with em you might regret them later.
I have 5 of them located in different parts of my body that can be easily hidden if you choose the correct wardrobe. You can have tattoos if you like them, but always keeping in mind where you place them. Not everyone thinks about these things and end up screwed when it comes to finding a job.
Tattoos aren’t all bad. To me it’s art and a way of expressing a feeling or a mark that you make to accentuate your body with an image of something you like or do, coping with a loss or to remember something forever.
The one making the desicion at the end is the person who is getting it.
If he is Happy with it, well God Bless him. If he/she regrets it later in his/her years well Keep in mind that no one in this world is perfect and people often make mistakes; From a unwanted tattoo to a nasty divorce.
By the way, Hot Topic ain’t the only place they will accept you with Tattoos. Ive seen people with full bodied tattoos working in Publishing Agencies and other good paying jobs. it’s not only minimum wage fast food Restaurants nor teenage clothing stores. It also depends in what state you live in or country too.
-Stains
Ok.. I just turned 17 in September and I’m in the process of my second tattoo. My Uncle is a tattoo artist of over 37 years and my mother has several tattoos all done by him.
My first tattoo was when I was 15 and it’s a kanji below my neck meaning “Eternity”.
I got this for myself to represent how when I am going to marry (which as a matter of fact is in a few years) it’s forever. Not one of those marry and divorce in five years. My fiance and I feel the same way and we both know we’ll last until Rocking Chairs.
The Second tattoo I’ve got is Malificient from Sleeping Beauty. My reasoning is a bit more complex but I’ve wanted her (pretty big too) on my left calf since I was 13. I have MANY MANY tattoos mapped out all over my body. Once Malificient is completed (next wednesday she’ll be shaded and colored in) I’m going to start having my uncle work on my next piece which is either going to be the Eye of Sauron underneath my left collarbone OR Frank Frazetta’s “Sea Witch” art piece on my right calf (again, it’ll be Huge).
I graduate in one year and I’m beginning to apply to colleges in a few months. I’m waiting on getting inked on my arms and shoulders because I’m not sure on how people are going to feel about hiring a chef with her legs nearly completely tattooed along with two full sleeves and an entire back piece. I’ve grown up knowing the consequences of Permanent Body Art through my mother. I’ve also realized that I shall regret Nothing because no matter what, it’ll be beautiful on my body and everything will always mean Something to me. My fiance is 24 (we’re waiting until I turn 18 to date and later down the road, marry) and he has multiple tattoos as well. He knows how many I want and what I want and couldn’t think of anything sexxier.
I know what I want in life how to live it and to open my own restaurant, no one has to see the goddamn chef in the kitchen and Banks don’t care how big of a loan I take OR how big my tattoos are as long as I can pay it off.
The message I’m trying to get across is that if you leave people to their Effing business, they’ll figure out how to get through their obstacles in life. Tattoos being a dilemma are only when A**holes are around. Which means you’re better off going elsewhere anyhow.
By the way, if you’d like to get into contact with my Uncle, we’re both located on Long Island, NY.
He’s Little Dan and he’s done Amazing things.
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=262548320
I’m also looking forward to have my own tattoo, that tattoo will always remind me of my son whom i never meet i’ve only seen him in the picture and that tattoo will always remind me that someday i may be able to see my son…
So I was actually just going through pictures on google to get an idea for a few more tattoos and I saw the picture of a woman with many and I meant to click on it to look at her work and happened to see all of this. I don’t have many just yet, 14 stars going with the curve up my side and a butterfly on my hip. I am 21 years old and I don’t consider this a phase. It’s something I enjoy, I’m addicted to the feeling and the outcome… it’s not like I’m out wasting my money on drugs or something worse so why should I or anyone else be discriminated against? Doesn’t it say in a work application that they cannot discriminate you or judge you in order to get hired?? What someone has on THEIR body shouldn’t concern anyone else that doens’t want that. I happen to find tattoos on men very attractive and mine make me more self confident and make me happy with myself, why is that a bad thing? I will continue to get inked for as long as I would like and wherever I would like, if you don’t wanna hire me then I don’t want to work for you. Case closed =]
I agree with you, Tracy. I’m only a teen and I (as most women) have confidence issues. Going into school and work with tattoos helps me hold my head even higher because not only am I made more self-confident and attractive because of my ink (plus i just got my tattoo on my leg filled in and shadowed and she’s more gorgeous then Ever!). I also agree on the fact that I find my fiance hotter because he has something on his body that accents him Very well. His tattoos are of things that show who he is. A strength tattoo on his forearm, family written in a big celtic cross, “calm down” written around his ankle, a gun in its holster on his calf and a skeleton hand reaching for it above his knee. I dont care if people don’t want to have anything to do with me because I have tattoos. I’m going to raise my children to know that tattoos are a BEAUTIFUL thing and that it’s THEIR CHOICE!! As long as it’s by my brother or my uncle. Me and my fiance are going to be the couple walking around the grocery store with tattoos everywhere that can be seen!!
- Holly a.k.a. Kitteh
I currently have a lower arm 1/4 sleeve and another tattoo on my right arm and I also have a large chest piece. I am currently working on a design for a full left arm sleeve and then will work on becoming heavily tattooed. I am also going to school to become an Architect. If you don’t like tattoos thats fine that’s you opinion, don’t get tattooed, but keep it to yourself and don’t go and generally judge people because you don’t like it. People that ignore resumes and coverletters and would rather hire a less qualified person because the higher qualified person has tattoos should stop complaining that they cannot find quality employees
tattos have a story behind each one but you need to take ur time picking or designing one i know you have them for life but lets admit it its great value for money.
there is nothing unprofessional about tattoos.
it’s the way you present yourself.
and at the end of the day, thats what matters most.
and to single out hot topic like that, it was rude. having your opinion is fine. and to stand behind it no matter what is great, but you have to watch how you say things. you could really offend someone, and thats just not cool man.
you gotta learn how to “agree to disagree”.
tattoos aren’t trash. it’s an art. it takes some serious skill to be a tattoo artist, and i have the utmost respect for them.
maybe saying this 10 years ago, you would get a different reaction. but i read a few peoples comments and, society really is changing. facial peircings are more common now, where as a couple years ago it was looked down on. tattoos are the same way.
ya know, and the whole thing about “i’m never getting tattoos, blah blah blah. here’s why you should NEVER get them”- …. are you serious?
not even necessary man.
well, i just came across this discussion while browsing for some shaded tattoos, Read this:
I am a 20 year old girl, i live in INDIA. I am wrking, doing BScIT and m a DJ and an upcoming tattoo artist. i already have 4 tattoos ,1 on my bicep, 1 on each of my forearms, and 1 on my lower back. and i am planning to get many more…. Tattoos can never br disgusting. wat is disgusting is the way these beautiful expressions are judged… The kind of country i live in….INDIA….. a girl is supposed to be homely. and imagine a grl having tattoos and that too visible ones……. i have to answer questions and stuff and take glances and all just cuz i am tattooed but, that doesn’t make my tattoos less loved or important. Tattoos are an expression of one’s feelings just like songs and poems….. it’s just that they are permanent and on your bodies.
I love and welcome the questions ppl ask about them. but i have a fairly large share of ppl making their own judgement cuz of my tattoos.” well. I CUDN’T CARE LESS ABOUT WHAT PPL THNK OF ME CUZ OF MY TATTOOS… BE IT GUD OR BAD………IT’S JUST MY EXPRESSION, MY BODY AND MY TATTOOS….”
I got my first tattoo 5 years ago. I got it just to get a tattoo but i still love it. I’m currently working on a large back piece that means a lot to me. I’ve also started a large piece on my left calf and have plans for a design on my right calf. I’m 27 years old and I don’t regret any of my tattoos. I believe that tattoos are a wonderful way of expressing that which means something special to someone in a unique art form. Yes it is permanent but that is the whole point. Why get a tattoo if you are not gonna cherish it forever? I love the attention that I get from my tattoos and I’ve formed a wonderful bond with my artist. I do understand the whole controversy as to whether or not tattoos should be displayed in “professional” environments but I feel that any and all careers are a profession. I’m currently battling an argument at work about the display of my tattoos. I work in a 4star hotel as a front desk/customer service position. My guests love me because I do my job well. I normally wear a suit but sometimes my little tattoo on my chest peeks out of my shirt. My employers were aware of my tattoos and my intentions of getting more when I was hired on a year ago and they were fine with that as they consider themselves a “cutting edge” hotel. I also got approval for several facial piercings. Now a year later, I am being reprimanded on my appearance as far as the piercings and tattoos go. What the hell? I’ve removed all of my facial piercings, I always dress in a black suit, I keep my hair and manicure maintained very nicely yet i’m still getting bitched at. I’m proud of the way in which I express myself. Everything about me makes me beautiful. I am a BBW and I am unique. My tattoos don’t make me less of a person either personally or professionally.
I don’t see the problem with tattoos really. In other countrys tattoos are a big thing for them, and yes they may be for looks or whatever here but if someone wants to get one that is there own buisness. That is something that they have to live with. Many people get them for family member that died, to show there beliefs, and many other reasons. Then again this is just my opinion and everyones differs.
I’ve been reading these comments as they come to me and the thing that I’ve noticed is that the overwhelming number of them are from tattoo collectors who are proud of their work and passionate about the choices they’ve made. I imagine most people find this site (as I did) through a google search, which suggests that tattoo owners are more interested in the whole issue than others. Maybe that’s because their feeling are the byproducts of choice and commitment and the negative feelings about tattoos are a byproduct of an abstract perceived cultural morality. My read from all this is that the tattoo owners know why they like them and those who are rejecting them don’t understand why they don’t. It’s not all that different from racism, where reactions are born from undigested abstract fears, and don’t hold up to personal experience. I know for myself that before I got my first one, I was intimidated by them, and part of my love for them now has come from passing through that emotion and realizing how to enjoy what they are: a daily encounter with art and a true commitment to personal expression. For those of you that don’t have them (and I most certainly include our host, Ronald Huereca) I would say that you are free to be afraid of what you don’t understand, but when you project it on to others you have joined the ranks of those who, not such a long time ago, believed that Blacks were dangerous and Jews were evil. Of course it’s a matter of degree, but many things are…
I am closing comments on this post, especially after the last one. It is absurd to compare people who choose not to have tattoos with racism and antisemitism.
For everyone that has left a comment on the subject, thank you.
I have decided to re-open comments on this post from feedback from the readers.
Remember, this is my blog. You are free to share your opinion, but do so without attacking other readers and myself.
I do have a comment policy. Failure to comply will result in your comment being marked as spam or deletion with no warning.
I understand this is a forum for opinions, but then some will agree and some won’t.
Let’s look at some other things people don’t agree or do agree on, but what it comes down to, is LIFE…live YOU OWN LIFE. I don’t live you you, I don’t live for anyone whom might not agree or does agree, I live my own identity, it’s MY life.
So Examples:
if you don’t smoke cigs. you cannot understand.
if you don’t smoke weed, you’ll never understand.
If you have no piercings, you won’t try it.
If you have no tattoo’s, then you won’t fit in that group unless you want too.
I owned Muscle cars, and worked on them, people had to give me opinions where I did not ask, like why do i put so much time in my car and not a relationship? Well for one, my cars didn’t talk back or go blah, blah, blah when I had coffee in the morning…hey guys…right???
So, unless you are in a group, to mention perfection of tatt’s or anything else, when one does not have them, that’s like telling me how to raise my kid, when you have none.
I waited many years to get them, and I hope I see them droop when I am old and wrinkled if I live that long…but I am happy I live my life, my way, not your way or anyone else’s way…except I have noticed I get laid more…maybe because my hair is down my back, long. :0 lol
Anyway, in my view, I hope no one goes on the attack of the host, he’s the host and should be respected…great site to express opinions. My opinion is not toward the host, just the angry mob that does not like tatt’s because they don’t have guts to live their own lives.
tee hee
Oh here’s a good one, our local cops have tatt’s on their neck, I gave the thumb’s up to that officer and said great neck writing. He smiled and waved back.
A cop, neck tattoo…how cool!!! Like tatt’s or long hair, motorcycles, muscle cars, blazed…there is a private sort of nod, an agreement in a private club without it being a club.
Thanks for the post and the reasons why we shouldnt get them. here are the facts from someone that has LOTS of tattoos. some people will accept you, some wont. some people will find you attractive and cool, most wont. some people will be inquisitive but most will try their best to ignore them for politness. all girls will date someone with no tattoos but some girls wont date you with tattoos. your tattoos should be for YOU because YOU like how it looks. If you want one to look cool then you can be pretty sure you wont get the reaction you hoped for. tattoos will never make you something your not but they CAN hide who you are. all that said, i have never had one regret from any of my tattoos, but i never took less than a year to fully decide on a design. Choose well, choose for yourself.
And I agree with Paul Black….but I never get one so you or anyone think anything of me.
It’s like when I went to Atlanta on the forth of July 1999, oh I danced, I’m a white boy that knows how to dance, hips and all.
I jump up on boxes not for anyone’s approval, but for my own enjoyment. I love dancing with anyone that can see the freedom ring in my movments.
Then my friend from Opp, AL. says to me; “Why are you dancing with those people, and yes he used a word that I will not use, and continued to say, I will never meet or get laid by my types.” Wow….
I said; “Then my types can jump in the lake, I dance with whom dances with me, black or white, pink or green. My types are not worth my time then.” I sound like Ethal on Lucy show explaining a good deed Ethal did…..lol
My point, like Pual, do it for you, live your life intended to live. Stand up and pick up those whom fall. Help where ever change is needed. BE THE EXAMPLE OF PEACE & LOVE.
I have a Caduceus tat, which represents the lives I saved when I worked EMS. This is something I am proud of, and always will be.
I should get something to show that I donate money to St. Jude, Special Olympics, Feed the Children….but then that would be announcing my goodness and ruin the karma. Each to her/his own.
Being a professional seems to mean that you fulfill a position; you play a role, perform a function, kind of like a robot, a façade. The advantage of that is that the client or colleague won’t be distracted by who you are, won’t be offended by any particular aspect of you and feels safe because there is nothing unexpected to distract from your function. Tattoos, especially visible ones, especially offensive ones, are no good in that context, they show that you have an own mind and can do unprofessional actions. Its way easier to make money by being a grey professional than by selling your personality. But would you like to be a professional only?
I like the people behind the façade. I like people for who they are, what they have been, and how they evolve during life. I like people who are different and open about that. I like people to have and share opinions, to be interactive, to adventure new ways, to make mistakes and learn from them, to show who they are, to be a complete story of who they were, and how they evolved in what they are now. Tattoos can be very much part of that. I like the excitement of young people feeling hot about their tattoos, I like the way they vibrantly accentuate their appearance. I like the way they chose them to be part of their story. I like the way they reflect who they once were now that they have grown older and numbed by life. They have become reminders.
But how will it be when they get older? I think that many people have some dream about staying young, virginal and unblemished by life. But life invariably turns young, beautiful, unblemished, insecure and virginal people into old, wrinkled, graying, baldening, saggy, experienced personalities. Let’s face it: life scars us and tattoos are just chosen scars and for that reason all the more interesting.
Well, it’s funny…I’ll tell ya why I think this conversation whether to get one or not or why to get one or not…money.
Yes, we’ve allowed the big banks to tell us to make money. Keep the little guy down, work, work, work so the banks become or are the power.
We learn to put value in the money, not in our lives or friendships or as the Hopi say; all relations.
We buy flat screen tv’s we are materialistic and put value that way. What would happen if all had no electric power?? Would you be willing to go to bed at night when night comes at 5PM or dinner and no TV, no PC, no Phone. Just books. Wake at 5 am to work together in the fields?
MY POINT; Getting a tattoo is my choice, because money is not my value, I Am my value. Are you your own value? Your own person?
As for being old and tattoo…lol well everyone else will be old too that I would even care about. Plus, tech. grows twice as fast each passing decade.
Haha, that picture is of my friend I went to school with. And I think if you get tattoos for stupid reasons you would want them removed. However, I have many friends who have multiple tattoos (like the one in the picture) and they are considered a piece of art. You would not get bored of looking at the Mona Lisa and want to get rid of it would you? The same goes for tattoos.
tattoos are fantastic, they are beautiful… but what I enjoy the most is the process of making it. It’s an addictive thing! I did my first tattoo when I was 18, many years after I had that urge to go and do again… not for some social status, but just the feeling the rush you get from this annoying little needle punching you.
tattoo body art has been around for thousands of years, and it rocks!