And what better way to remind yourself than looking at your own skin?
No one understands this better than Cora Breuner, M.D., M.P.H., a pediatrician at Seattle Children’s and a professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington School of Medicine. She wanted to get her first tattoo (of a heron) to commemorate finishing 10 months of treatment for metastatic breast cancer, highlighting the deeply personal and significant motivations behind body art.
Aside from her personal interest, Breuner also has had a professional interest in tattoos and piercings ever since she realized how little scientific data and research there is on them. To counter that, she co-authored the first-ever report on tattoos and body piercings for the American Academy of Pediatrics. This underscores the importance of informed decisions and reliable information, especially when considering body modifications like tattoos.
The report gathers what little research there is into one place. It reveals that, challenging common stereotypes, tattoo interest is equally prevalent among women and men, and the majority of individuals do not regret their tattoos. This emphasizes the growing acceptance and mainstream nature of tattoo culture.
The profound meaning behind tattoos is what drew Laura Exley, a licensed tattoo artist in Seattle, into the industry.
“I’ve always been fascinated with history, and also the history of tattooing and how far back it stretches. It’s a connection we have to our roots as humankind. The reasons people get tattoos vary from the extremely personal to the ‘because I like it,’” Exley says. “It could be as simple as adornment: decorating a part of your body that brings you happiness, or perhaps an area of your body that you wish to make more attractive for yourself. It could be a way to connect you to your loved ones, lost or living, or an outward expression of your inner self or interests.” Exley’s insights highlight the diverse and deeply personal motivations behind choosing to get a tattoo, ranging from aesthetic appeal to profound personal expression.
I spoke with Breuner and Exley about the tattooing process: what to avoid, how to ensure a safe experience, and proper aftercare for new tattoos. Their expert tips, detailed below, are crucial for anyone considering getting inked.
Before Getting Inked: Planning Your Tattoo
While my year-long deliberation over tattoo design might be excessive, Breuner advises ensuring your chosen design holds personal significance. This is not only for emotional satisfaction but also financial prudence, as tattoo removal can be costly, reaching hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Choosing a meaningful design minimizes the chances of future regret.
“A name probably isn’t a good idea because of the lack of permanence of certain relationships,” she wisely notes. This cautionary advice emphasizes the importance of choosing timeless and personally resonant designs over fleeting trends or relationships.
Here are key considerations before committing to a tattoo:
Schedule a Tattoo Consultation
Months before my actual tattoo appointment, I consulted with Exley to discuss my ideas and understand the tattooing process. This consultation was invaluable. We explored design options, and she proposed several ideas I hadn’t considered but ultimately loved. This collaborative approach ensured my vision was realized effectively. Meeting Exley beforehand also allowed me to assess the studio’s cleanliness and confirm my comfort level with the environment. A consultation is an essential step to ensure both artistic alignment and studio safety.
Understand Tattoo Risks and Safety
Although Seattle tattoo studios generally maintain high hygiene standards, Breuner emphasizes the inherent risk of infections like HIV or hepatitis C if non-sterile needles are used. This risk, while minimal in licensed studios, is a critical safety concern. While licensed tattoo artists in reputable studios prioritize sterilization, opting for stick-and-poke or hand-poke tattoos, a style gaining popularity that echoes ancient tattooing methods, significantly elevates the risk of infection. Choosing licensed studios and artists is paramount for safety.
Tattoo Day: Health and Safety First
On the morning of my tattoo appointment, my excitement was amplified by a previous rescheduling due to illness. This highlights crucial health and safety protocols to consider on tattoo day:
Reschedule If You Are Sick
Tattoo artists understandably prefer not to be in close proximity to clients who are ill. Furthermore, exposing your artist to germs is disrespectful to them and their subsequent clients. If you are experiencing any illness, including colds or infections (even non-contagious ones like UTIs), inform the tattoo studio and reschedule your appointment. Prioritizing health ensures a safe and respectful environment for both artist and client.
