Getting a tattoo is a big commitment. Unlike changing your hairstyle or wardrobe, tattoos are meant to be permanent. However, while the internet is filled with tattoo inspiration and amazing portfolios of artists’ work, choosing the right tattoo for you requires more thought.
With some preparation and guidance, you can feel confident that the tattoo you get will hold meaning and look great for years to come. Here are some tips to make sure you end up with a timeless tattoo you’ll always cherish.
Choose a Design That Resonates With You
When selecting a design, look for something that connects with your interests, values, or memories. Your tattoo will have more significance if it reflects an important aspect of your life.
For example, nature lovers may opt for animal or plant designs associated with their favorite hiking spots. Music fans sometimes get tattoos of lyrics, instrument shapes, or artistic renditions of significant albums or concerts.
You can also create a collage of small images that capture different memories and periods of your life. The most meaningful tattoos come from within, so listen to your heart when considering designs.
Select a Visible Placement Wisely
The visibility of your tattoo affects how it looks as you age. Areas that sag or wrinkle over time, like the elbows or neck, will cause the tattoo’s shape to warp. Highly visible tattoos also impact your professional image and how others perceive you at first glance.
For longevity, consider getting tattoos on areas less prone to aging, like the shoulder, upper back, bicep, or outer forearm. Remember that visible placements often come with stigma in socially conservative environments. Make sure you’re comfortable with the level of visibility based on your lifestyle and profession.
Choose Stylized Graphics Over Photorealism
Photorealistic tattoos may capture a moment in stunning detail, but they are harder to maintain as your skin changes. Tiny intricacies in shading, lighting, and proportions get muddled over time.
On the other hand, bold graphic designs with simple palettes stay crisp. American traditional, neo-traditional, new school, and minimalist styles often leverage crisp lines, symmetry, solid blocks of color, and negative space. This makes them more legible as you age.
Get a Design Scaled to Fit Your Body
The size of your tattoo matters just as much as the style. Excessively small tattoos blur and bleed together faster. On the other end of the spectrum, make sure the artist can scale a large design to flatter your body’s proportions.
For example, long, narrow placements like the forearm suit long tattoos versus wide, square pieces. Placement should also dictate size — a palm-sized design can get lost on your entire back. Let your artist guide you on size.
Do Your Research on Artists and Shops
Even the best design won’t stand the test of time without an experienced artist. Always visit a licensed tattoo shop and ask to see healed examples of the artist’s work. Check that line work is clean and shading is smooth.
A strong portfolio should include various styles, with both fresh and faded tattoos. Read online reviews and ask people with older tattoos where they went. Higher prices often reflect stronger technical skills that justify the investment.
Get a Test Tattoo First
If you’re hesitant to commit, some shops offer smaller test tattoos. This lets you experience the process before a full sleeve or back piece. It’s also a chance to assess your pain tolerance and see how your skin takes the ink.
Test tattoos fade faster due to size, so view it as a trial run versus a permanent piece. If you’re happy with the experience, you can book the full tattoo with confidence.
Give Your Tattoo Proper Aftercare
No matter how skilled your artist is, failing to care for new tattoos leads to faster fading and blurring. Listen closely to your artist’s aftercare instructions, including:
- Keeping tattoos clean and moisturized as they heal
- Avoiding direct sun exposure or tanning beds
- Letting tattoos fully heal before swimming or long baths
Ongoing care also prevents fading. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to tattoos before prolonged sun exposure. Moisturize tattoos regularly to prevent drying out. Avoid abrasive scrubs on tattooed skin as well.
Know When to Get a Touch Up
Even well-cared for tattoos eventually need refreshed. How soon depends on your skin, placement, and type of tattoo. On average, you’ll want your first touch up within 5-10 years.
Signs you may need a touch up include:
- Fading or blurred linework
- Loss of vibrancy in colors
- Discoloration in skin or highlights
Schedule an appointment with your original artist for the best results. Frequent touch ups preserve the integrity of your tattoo.
Consider Laser Removal Options If Needed
While tattoos are meant to last, some circumstances warrant removal. As laser removal technology improves, fewer treatments are needed with less scarring. However, the process is gradual and not guaranteed to fully remove a tattoo.
If considering removal, first speak with a dermatologist about options. They can assess your specific tattoo and recommend effective laser treatments. While expensive, advances in removal technology allow tattoos to be lightened, reshaped, or covered up more easily. Click here to learn more about tattoo removal options.
Choose Timelessness Over Trends
Some tattoo trends come and go, whether it’s barbed wire armbands, tribals, or infinity symbols. While trendy tattoos express your current style, they often end up outdated.
Focus your tattoo decision on longevity—select classic styles rendered well over ephemeral trends. Well-executed tattoos in any genre will always look better than cheap imitation trends years down the road.
By carefully considering your tattoo design, placement, and artist, you can feel confident your body art will stand the test of time. Make sure your tattoos reflect your values and tastes for the long haul. With proper care and occasional touch ups, you’ll enjoy your tattoos for life.
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