Tips For Tatts

Growing up I was always fascinated with tattoos and body art. I started wanting tattoos at a very young age and actually got my first one when I was 16. I've always been incredibly impulsive and had to make a few mistakes along the way to learn my lesson so, I thought I might share a few of my Tips for Tattoos. 

Tip #1 Overthink everything 
Think about it, then think about it some more and then keep thinking about it. Getting a tattoo is a big deal and before you make the decision of getting one you really need to think about it. I'm all for spontaneity and encourage it on a regular basis but when it comes to getting something as permanent as a tattoo - take it from someone who hasn't , overanalyze and think about it before going out and getting one. 

Tip #2 Getting A Bad Tattoo Is Not The End Of The World  
I feel like no one ever talks about this and it's this taboo subject but not all tattoos are great. I know no one likes to hear it but there's always the potential of getting a bad tattoo. If you do get a tattoo that you don't end up liking just remember to breathe and know it's not the end of the world. There are amazing artists that can do incredible cover ups and there's obviously the option of removing a tattoo. At the end of the day though, remember it's still a part of your body and it deserves love too no matter what happened.

Tip #3 Find An Artist You Feel Comfortable With
It has taken my impatient self years to find an artist that I can actually trust and enjoy fully. You want to find someone who is going to respect your wishes, take care of you and also help guide you down the right path. Tattoo locations or sizing and all that are things that your artist will know more about and talking openly with them can help collaborate and find a common ground and truly perfect a tattoo.

Tip #4 Healing. Healing. Pealing.
There is this little tiny stage of getting a tattoo that I feel people never acknowledge. Everyone is always either focused on the pain of actually getting tattooed or the aftermath of having a new addition to your body but a huge factor in getting a tattoo is the healing process. Similar to a sunburn or cut, your skin is going to have to heal from being imprinted on. Your skin is going to be incredibly sensitive and for at least two weeks you're going to have to take some serious care of making sure you're helping your skin heal. Talk to your artist and be gentle with yourself and make sure to invest time and care into your new healing wound. 

Tip #5 Own Your Tattoo, Don't Let It Own You 
Living in liberal California, I often forget that there's still people out there who will discriminate against you for your own bodily choices and I know it's super cliche but I feel like it needs to be said : It's ok that not everyone is going to like your tattoos. If you have a work of art on your skin or a drunken mishap brought on your tattoo, it's still your body and no one has the right to judge you for it. Embrace whatever happens and know that every part of you is beautiful no matter what others may think or assume.