Tattoos are in. Celebrities, musicians and professional athletes make them look so ‘now’. ..and so very sexy. If you are about to take the leap into permanent body art just for accessory’s sake, then you may be doing it for the wrong reason.
What was once only the branding of service men, sailors and bikers is now a trendy accessory that has many folks foaming at the mouth. In fact, American Academy of Dermatology stats show that 24% of 18-24 year olds are inked up. Additionally, 39% of 18-29 year olds surveyed admitted to having at least one tattoo.
Although the art of tattooing has been around for centuries (some researchers trace the practice back to ancient Egypt) the resurgence in modern culture came in the late 90’s. Prompted by celebrities, many view tattoos as body art or a method of self expression. The problem is that they don’t think long term about the decision.
Avoid living in the ‘now’ and consider that your love for ‘Tweety’ or unicorns may change in a few years.
The question to ask yourself? What happens when body art is no longer trendy? Will the tattoo effect your professional life? In a 2009 Pew Research Center Study; 72% of adults with tattoos cover them during business hours. Additionally, only 13% of those studied (all men) get inked in areas that can’t be hidden by clothing.
Whatever decision you make, don’t haphazardly get inked with your gal or guy’s name. You may plan to be ‘together forever’ but make sure that your counterpart has the same thing in mind.
Kelly Brannigan, a ‘Deal or No Deal’ model had her fiance’s name tattooed on inner wrist. She was devastated when they split…and stuck with a permanent reminder of the failed relationship.
Tattoo Regret Spurs MultiMillion Dollar Industry
Just as the popularity of tattoos have increased, so has the number of those wanting their body art removed. A recent article by the New York Times sites the newest trend; tattoo removal studios. You’ll see names like ‘Dr. Tattoff’, ‘Tat2BGone’ and ‘TattooMD’offering tattoo removal services with an average cost on $39 per inch per treatment…with some tattoos taking up to 30 treatments to remove.
Top Ten Tattoo Designs
Tribal
Stars
Lion
Angels
Sun
Cross
Wings
Dragon
Phoneix
Butterfly
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