Myths and Lies
Myths and Lies
(1) Tattoo is an Art:
It is true to certain extent only. In fact it depends on how lucky you are to find a tattooist who is proficient enough with a pencil as well as a tattooing machine. Remember that, some tattoos are good art, poorly done and some tattoos are bad art, done well.
(2) Tattoos are approved by the society:
Although the situation is lot better than what it was 10-15 years ago yet there are majority of people who believe tattoo is nothing but waste of your money and time. You end up spoiling your body for rest of your life. A section of society still thinks that tattooing is associated with rebels and gangs who do not follow society norms and are considered outlawed.
(3) Every tattoo artist does not have a creative talent:
Yes, it is true. It is not necessary that every tattoo artist does have the artistic talent. So choose your artist very carefully, assessing all the pros and cons before settling for the one you can rely upon.
(4) A tattoo will change your life:
It is not true. It could have been easy only if your self image would have been as thin as your skin. Do not put the high hopes on your decision to get tattooed. You need to be very cautious as once put on a tattoo is a permanent feature. Therefore, choose your design, location, and art sensibly.
(5) Portfolio is a great way of judging an artist’s ability:
This can hardly be the best way to judge the ability of an artist. Better see the live examples of the tattoos done by the studio artist. Volunteer to see some of tattoos depicted on the people. Ask them the questions like how they feel about whole process, their satisfaction level for designs depicted on their bodies etc. Photographs are the second best option of learning about an artist’s capabilities, as photos do not give an exact idea of artist’s abilities.
(6) Anyone who is artistic can tattoo:
Do not allow anyone who does not know about tattooing play with your skin. It can be very dangerous. Anyone who is artistic does not mean that he can have very good tattooing techniques too. The ability to draw neat designs does not make a tattooist. Devoid of the proper equipment, technical knowledge and mechanical skill, that pretty paper design can turn into anything from mush to scar tissue in a couple of months.
(7) A good tattoo artist can do any kind of tattoo:
It is not true. While most professionals are competent of a multiplicity of styles, they more often than not have an area of expertise, a unique style of tattooing they have developed and are very good at. That artist who’s known for his fantastic ethnic work may not be very good while portraying a favorite celebrity you been thinking of putting on your body. Go for an artist who can depict your desired tattoo the way you want it.
(8) There is no harm in getting cheap tattoos:
Please understand that serious and quality tattoos do not come cheap. Opt for only quality tattoos and able artist. No fun here since a tattoo will be on your body for rest of your life. Get only great looking designs on your body which can be proud of even a later stage of your life.
(9) Certificates vouch that it is a great tattoo shop:
It is not essential to be true and it can hardly be a good proof of their efficiency. Most of the certificates claiming professional status by tattoo studios are simply wallpaper giveaways from supply companies which carry no credibility at all. Except that there are few tattoo parlors which are authorized to display their APT certificate as a testimony of affiliation with a professional body or organization which cares for safe and sterilized tattooing processes.
(10) Larger tattoo designs mean more money for tattoo artist:
It is nothing but a myth. Most of the well-known qualified artists can earn more money by depicting a lot of small, simple pieces than a few large difficult tattoos.
(11) Apply a lot of ointment:
A wet tattoo delays healing process. But it should not be dry either. A dry skin starts cracking up and gives a tendency of scratching. So keep the tattoo moist with a little application of antiseptic ointment.
(12) Autoclaving is not that essential:
Utterly untrue. The only the best way to ensure the sterilization of equipment is via autoclave. Dry heat units, bleaching, boiling water or spirit does not help to minimize the risk of infection.
(13) Scratching is okay with your tattoos:
Always care for your new tattoo. Avoid scratching it since you may spoil the color or design altogether.
(14) Water may spoil your new tattoo:
Yes, you must not immerse your new tattoo in water. Gentle hand washing is alright as helps to remove the dirt and bacteria from the healing tattoo. Prior to taking bath apply a little extra layer of ointment to the tattoo. After the bath is over wipe off the excess ointment with blotter paper from your skin.
(15) Tattooing process is too painful:
Not true. Degree of pain varies according to age of the person, tattoo location, process involved and the size of the tattoo. Some areas on our body are more delicate than others.
(16) Everybody must wear a tattoo:
It is not necessary to get a tattoo to live a happy and fulfilled life. Majority of people are happy with the skin tone they are born with. Therefore, tattoo is more like a personal choice.
(17) It is a good idea getting your tattoo redone:
No it is not a good idea at all. There is less chance of that strained and blotched tattoo getting any better in the second attempt and instead you risk a chance of spoiling it further.
