The world of tattooing is one that can often seem quite scary or mysterious. There’s a lot of myths and legends surrounding this art form, and they can be quite off putting if you’re looking to get a tattoo for the first time.
That’s what we’re going to be taking a look at today. In this blog, we’re going to be going over the top 10 myths about getting tattooed that we hear in our studio. Some of them are silly, some of them are quite serious- but we think that all of them are worth debunking.
Tattoos are only for gangsters or criminals
To start off with, let’s look at a popular myth about the tattoo world. This one often stems from older generations, but we’ve heard it from all sorts of people. There’s a stigma surrounding heavily tattooed people, in that they seem like criminals, gangsters or thugs.
There are, of course, places in tattoo history where crime and gangs are relevant. For example, the yakuza in Japan are heavily tied into tattoo history, as are prison tattoos. This stereotype is also perpetuated by uniforms and dress codes that ban tattoos, for the sake of ‘a professional appearance’.
There is no basis to this myth. Tattoos are a beautiful form of self expression, with a wonderfully rich and vibrant history. Anyone can get a tattoo, no matter who they are or where they are in life.
Once you have a tattoo, that’s it forever
While this may have been true a few decades ago, it’s not the case now. If you end up with a tattoo that you’re not thrilled with, there are some great options out there to help you feel happier with your skin again.
There are some wonderful artists who specialize in covering up tattoos, for example. There’s also been a lot of development in the world of laser removal, and blast-over tattoos are always an option as well.
It’s okay to get a replica of someone else’s tattoo
This may not apply to every shop in the world, but no reputable studio is going to replicate another tattoo. Similar designs are, of course, fine to get done- but getting a photo of another tattoo and demanding a line-for-line copy simply isn’t great practice.
It’s disrespectful to the artist who originally drew it, and to the person who’s wearing it. It also limits your actual artist in regards to what creative freedom they have.
Tattoo shops are scary, dirty and cold
This is a myth that we hear a lot, as people are often surprised by how welcoming our studio feels. Tattoo shops may have been intimidating and dirty in the past, but they’re absolutely not now.
Any good studio nowadays focuses on creating a beautiful, calm and sterile environment to create artwork for their clients.
Darker complexions can’t get colored tattoos
This isn’t just a myth that we hear clients talk about, it’s a myth that some artists actually perpetuate too. People of all complexions can get tattooed. No matter how pale or dark your skin is, you can get a colortattoo, and it’ll look beautiful.
Performing color tattoos on darker complexions simply requires a skilled artist and a good understanding of how to work with pigments. If you’re a person of color looking for a colored tattoo, please don’t be put off by this myth; you can get whatever style you like.
Getting tattooed should be a scary experience
This one will never cease to amaze us. Some older generations enjoy saying that tattooing should be an intimidating or scary experience, in order for it ‘to be authentic’. This is absolutely not the case.
Modern studios will always strive to make sure that their clients are comfortable, well fed and happy. Getting tattooed can feel scary or emotional, and it’s our job to make sure that our customers have as nice of a time as possible.
The cheapest tattoo studio is the best option
Hunting for bargains with tattoos is never a great option. It’s not the same as trying to find a cute new top or a nice notebook to doodle in; this is a piece of art that’s going to be permanently etched onto your skin.
We would strongly recommend going with an artist that has the best reviews or reputation and the tattoos that you like the most, instead of just the cheapest option. If you’re unsure, visit the studio for a consultation and ask as many questions as you need to.
Every tattoo has to be meaningful
It’s always nice when a tattoo has a lovely meaning, but it’s not a necessity. You can get a tattoo just because you like it. If it’s got a meaning, great! If it hasn’t, then that’s just as good. Getting a tattoo is deeply personal, and it’s about making yourself feel comfortable in your own skin.
You should stock up on painkillers before a tattoo
While taking painkillers might seem like a good idea before a tattoo, we would strongly advise against it. Most painkillers are actually blood thinners, and this can make the whole tattoo process a lot more unsafe and unpleasant for you.
Once you’re out of the chair, that’s it
The tattoo process doesn’t end as soon as you walk out of the studio. Aftercare is such an important part of getting a tattoo, and it’s one that people tend to skip over a lot. If you really want to get a tattoo, make sure that you’re prepared to look after your skin and keep yourself healthy to keep the tattoo in great shape.
To sum up
Tattooing isn’t as scary or mysterious as some people might like to say it is. If you’re someone who’s looking to get a tattoo but have been too nervous or unsure so far, we hope this post has helped to calm a few of your worries. It’s an emotional process for sure, but with the right studio and artists it can be a breeze.
Here at NYC Tattoo Shop, we think that tattoos are for everyone. No matter what style you’re into, and no matter where you’re from, we’d be honored to tattoo you. Take a look at our website to find out more about all the different artists and styles that our shop has to offer today.