1. Join an online tattoo forum. Get hints, tips, and referrals for great information from people who are "quality" tattoo enthusiasts and love to share their experiences and knowlege with others.
2. Think "Down the Road': Research, research, research tattoos and the meanings of them. Don't get a tattoo of a cherry when, at 80 years old, you may hate the fruit. Think about aging with your tattoo and if it would still apply to a more 'mature you'.
3. NEVER Get a Tattoo When You're Drunk or On a Whim: This goes without saying but who knows what you'll wind up with that you have to LIVE with? Easy come but not easy go with that tat. Remember that.
4. DO Investigate Tattoo Removal Procedure and Their Associated Costs: Getting a tattoo is pretty much affordable for everyone but tattoo removal processes can cost a fortune. You need to be aware of how and how much removal is before getting a tattoo in the first place.
5. Find a Tattoo Artist by Referral: There are many tattoo studios and parlors---as well as people who say they are tattoo artists and are not licensed. If you get an infection from being tattooed by a non-licensed person, it's your problem.
6. Look for Guarantees/Warranties: You need to find reputable tattoo studios that offer a guarantee of workmanship with your tattoo design as well as customer service during the healing period.
7. Check Your Medicine Cabinet: Make sure that any tattoo application or removal process does not conflict with any medications you are taking.
8. Consider a Temporary Tattoo: Today, there is an incredible assortment of temporary tattoos ranging from Henna tattoos to very sophisticated ink body art available on the internet. Removal for most is a breeze and normally won't cost you anything but a little scrubbing with soap and water. See Tattoo Alterative's
9. Really Take the Time to Think About Why You Want a Tattoo: In many cultures, there were definite purposes for having a tattoo such as identifying oneself as part of a clan. Is there another way you can identify yourself as an individual such as a body piercing? Take the time to think first about why you want to have a tattoo before you run out and get one.
10. Think About the Tattoos' Healing: Most tattoos take up to a month to heal --- or more. The application of color "stings" also. The placement of the tattoo has a lot to do with your ability to tend to the 'wound' (which it really is) with antiseptic ointments and bandage changes on a daily baises. Does your daily routine allow for this critical and needed time to avoid infection from the tattoo's application? Be honest.
Be nice to yourself by doing your homework before you get a tattoo.
Truly investigate why you want a tattoo in the first place, look at various tattoo meanings and, furthermore, be sure you understand that a tattoo is permanent and the costs for removal may be more than you can afford down the line.
