Tattoos are more popular now than at any time in recorded history. The definition of a "tatoo" can be, 'the permanent insertion of ink or other pigments below the skin using a sharp instrument -- the practice of making a design on the skin by pricking and staining'.

In 3 percent of American households today, at least one of their members has one or more tattoos. At least 12 million Americans have one tattoo.

This decorative artform continues to be a growing attraction to teenagers. Teens as young as 13 and 14 are getting their first tattoos. It isn't just males who are getting them, over the past twenty years the number of women getting tattoos has quadrupled.

The color additives used in tattooing pigments are the same as those used in cosmetics. They are monitored by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and approved for topical application only. There are more than 100 different color variations, but the most common colors are red, green, yellow, blue and white. White is used to mix colors to make color variations.

The Technique
Permanent tattoos are applied by injecting the color pigments mention above into the skin using a solid, round-tip needle attached to a motorized instrument that holds up to 14 needles attached to the pigments. The pigments are injected into the middle layer of the skin at a rate of 15 to 3,000 times per minute.

In other cases, tattoo artists apply the tattoo by hand dipping a needle into pigment, without the use of an electric instrument. Depending upon the complexity of design, the process takes anywhere from fifteen minutes to several hours or sometimes months to complete.

Remember, a tattoo is forever. Some people may think that it is a way to express their individuality. Some people see it as an art form. But before you walk into a tattoo studio, you should know exactly what you want to put on your body. After you have decided, you will need to find the right artist to do the tattoo. Choose someone with a good reputation; someone whose work you have seen on your friends or other people.

State health departments in Texas, Oregon and Wisconsin monitor and inspect tattoo studios. However, tattoo studios operate in many states in the U.S. but are NOT inspected by a local health department. New York City currently has over 400 licensed tattoo artists. Tattoo studios are still illegal in several states.

A good artist will take the time to sit down with you and create an individual work of art. A questionable artist might encourage you just to pick a design off of his wall. Check out the studio. It should be equipped with an autoclave -- a device that pressurizes the instruments and kills any viruses or bacteria.
Does the artist use single-use or disposable needles?
Single-use needles are a higher quality needle than a disposable.

Don't get your tattoo at a "bargain" in some sleazy part of town. Remember, this will be on your body FOREVER. Yes, they can be removed with a laser. It can be a very expensive price to pay to remove an inexpensive tattoo. To keep your tattoo color from fading, protect it with a good stick or spray.
Complications
The actual incidence of complications related to tattooing is not known. There are amateur artists, do-it-yourselfers, and informal tattooers, known as "scratchers" who are not required to report complications. Also just because a tattoo parlor is in business doesn't mean it is maintaining safety and sterility precautions. Bleeding, pain and some discomfort are to be expected. The intensity of pain from a tattoo depends upon the location and size. If not properly cared for during the first two weeks the area has the potential for infection and scarring.

Medical literature cites reports of gangrene, syphilis, TB, contraction of hepatitis B from contaminated instruments and hypersensitivity to the pigments to name a few complications. The CDC is concerned about the transmission of HIV. The risk for HIV transmission is always present when a contaminated instrument pierces the skin. (Although the virus that causes HIV dies at room temperature and a germicidal soap is enough to eliminate it, the potential for transmission should not be ignored). These risks can be eliminated if you go to a state licensed facility that is following the correct sterilization guidelines.

After Care
Tattoo aftercare is vital to the longevity of your tattoo! How your tattoo looks three months or three years from now depends upon how you treat it right away.

Follow these steps to promote a healthy tattoo.

1. Remove the bandage after 4 to 12 hours, depending upon the size and location of the tattoo.
2. Do not re-bandage.
3. Wash your tattoo with warm water and an antibacterial soap.
4. Gently pat dry with a clean towel.
5. Apply a thin layer of triple antibiotic ointment.
6. Use the ointment during the first two days, 3 or 4 times a day.
7. Make sure your hands are clean before touching your tattoo.
8. After the first two days, apply a thin layer of fragrance free moisturizing lotion.
9. Apply it 3 to 4 times daily for the next 2 to 3 weeks. Preferably a fragrance-free, natural lotion.

The normal healing time is 2 to 4 weeks. Do NOT pick or scratch your tattoo. Flaking or peeling is a natural part of the healing process. Do not soak your tattoo during healing. That means no baths, hot tubs, pools, etc. Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight while it is healing.

After your tattoo is healed, always use sunblock while in the sun, preferably 30 to 45 SPF. Remember to moisturize your skin with lotion. This will help keep your colors fresh. Please consult a physician at any sign of infection or allergic reaction and report any infection or allergic reaction to the tattooist and your State Department of Health.

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1. The History Of Tattoos
2. Time And Tattoos
3. Things To Know About Tattoos
4. Pros And Cons Of Tattoos
5. Psychology And Tattoos
6. Information To Known Before Getting A Tattoo
7. Application Techniques Of Tattoos
8. The Risks Of Getting Tattoos
9. Tattoo Safety
10. Choosing Your Tattoo Parlor
11. The Costs Of Tattoos
12. Caring For A New Tattoo
13. Minimizing The Pain Of Tattoos
14. Tattoo Removal Options
15. Things To Expect From Tattoo Removal
16. Laser Tattoo Removal
17. Temporary Tattoos
18. Tongue Tattoos
19. Lower Back Tattoos
20. Picking Your Dream Design
21. Popular Tattoo Designs
22. Innovative Tribal Designs
23. Celtic Tattoos
24. The Meanings Of Flower Tattoos

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