Tattoo You

A few years back a friend of mine told me that she was having her tattoo removed. She got it when she was about eighteen, during one of those decisions you make after you've had a night of too much access. It was, at the time, a pretty little dove on her left ankle. Fast forward 25 years and it had turned into a shapeless blob. Of course, she went to college, got married had kids and ended up being a kindergarten teacher. She felt self conscious about the little black blob on her left ankle so she sought the advice of a plastic surgeon who told her she could have it removed and she went ahead and set up appointments (it takes numerous appointments to remove a tattoo) for removal. In the process of having it removed, she told me that it was more painful than childbirth. This made me think about all those people (mostly young, but some middle-aged) who think that having a tattoo is sexy and unique (which it is when you're 18), but can be an eyesore after many, many years. Some things people need to take into consideration is the size, location (location, location, location) and color(s) of tattooing. The smaller and less colorful a tattoo is, the easier it will be to remove should you wish to make that decision. If removal is not an option, than obviously you would want to put it in a place that few people (except those lucky ones) will see it. Also, going to a reputable tattoo artist is essential. Those needles they use should be brand new and sealed and then disposed of once they are done with their work of art. Color doesn't saturate immediately and tattoos should remain dry for a few days in order for the color to not seep out. Anyone considering getting a tattoo should check out the shows "Miami Ink" or "Inked". After watching an episode or two of these reality-based shows, you may change your mind about getting that cute tattoo. Instead try a temporary tattoo, which are now available in mall kiosks and look pretty darn close to the real thing if you don't get too close to it. Also, too much of a good thing is not pretty. One, small, cute tattoo is fine. Too many tattoos in the wrong place (your face, forearms, hands, ears, neck) can be horrifying to look at, not to mention painful to achieve (areas of the body that are less fleshy are more painful to tattoo). This is one decision that you might want to consult your friends and family about. If too many people say "don't do it", take their advice because they're probably right.