Are Tattoos Behind The Ear Unprofessional? Yes, tattoos behind the ear can be unprofessional depending on the workplace culture, however, many workplaces are becoming more accepting of tattoos, especially smaller, discreet designs; at tattooat.com, we help you navigate the world of body art and its perception in professional settings, offering guidance on tattoo placement, design choices, and aftercare to ensure your ink aligns with your personal and professional goals. Explore our comprehensive tattoo placement guide for best practices and discover unique tattoo ideas to express yourself confidently.
1. Understanding the Perception of Tattoos in the Workplace
The perception of tattoos in the workplace has evolved significantly, yet biases may persist in some sectors. While tattoos are increasingly accepted, it’s important to consider how visible tattoos, like those behind the ear, might be perceived in various industries. Tattoo acceptance is influenced by cultural norms and can vary widely between professions and geographic locations.
1.1. Historical Context of Tattoos and Professionalism
Historically, tattoos have been associated with rebellion, sailors, or marginalized groups, creating a stigma that made them unacceptable in professional environments. In the past, visible tattoos were often seen as unprofessional and a sign of nonconformity. Over time, tattoos have gained mainstream acceptance, thanks to celebrities, athletes, and cultural shifts that celebrate individuality and self-expression.
1.2. The Shifting Sands: Tattoo Acceptance Today
Today, many industries, particularly those in creative fields like tech and marketing, have embraced tattoos as a form of personal expression. However, conservative sectors such as law, finance, and customer service may still harbor reservations. According to research from Portland State University’s Art Department, in July 2023, 76% of companies now welcome employees with tattoos.
1.3. Tattoo Policies: A Company-by-Company Approach
Some companies have explicit policies regarding tattoos, while others rely on unwritten rules. It’s crucial to research a company’s stance on tattoos before getting inked, especially in visible areas. Check employee handbooks and online forums to understand a company’s culture regarding body art.
2. Factors Influencing Tattoo Perception
Several factors play a role in how tattoos are perceived, including tattoo visibility, design, size, and the industry in question. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about tattoo placement and design.
2.1. Visibility Matters: The Impact of Placement
Tattoos in easily visible locations, such as the hands, neck, and face, tend to draw more attention and may be viewed as less professional in certain settings. Behind-the-ear tattoos, while relatively discreet, can still be noticeable, especially with short hair or updos. Carefully consider how often the tattoo will be visible in your daily work life.
2.2. Design and Size: Striking the Right Balance
The design and size of a tattoo also influence perception. Small, minimalist designs are generally more accepted than large, bold, or controversial images. Choose designs that reflect your personality while remaining appropriate for a professional environment.
2.3. Industry Standards: Navigating Different Sectors
Different industries have varying expectations regarding tattoos. Creative fields often embrace tattoos, while more conservative sectors may view them negatively. Research the industry’s norms to ensure your tattoos align with professional expectations. In creative industries, 85% of employers appreciate tattoos, while only 30% do so in banking.
3. The Pros and Cons of Behind-the-Ear Tattoos
Behind-the-ear tattoos have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Weighing these pros and cons can help you decide if this placement is right for you.
3.1. Advantages: Subtle Expression and Personal Meaning
- Discreet Placement: Behind-the-ear tattoos can be easily concealed with hair, offering a balance between self-expression and professional appearance.
- Personal Significance: This location allows for meaningful, intimate designs that are visible only when you choose to reveal them.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Many people find behind-the-ear tattoos aesthetically pleasing, adding a touch of individuality and style.
- Starting Point: It’s a great spot for a small piece of ink, or a great starting point for a neck tattoo.
- Versatility: These tattoos offer themselves to every style from fineline to trad colour. From stars to hearts, script to feathers, there’s no limit to what you can have.
3.2. Disadvantages: Visibility, Fading, and Pain Considerations
- Potential Unprofessionalism: Despite increasing acceptance, some employers may still view visible tattoos as unprofessional.
- Fading: Tattoos in this area may be prone to fading due to sun exposure and friction from clothing or accessories. According to Inked Magazine, tattoos behind the ear can fade more quickly if not properly cared for.
- Pain Factor: The area behind the ear can be sensitive, making the tattooing process more painful for some individuals. All tattoos hurt, but the pain you experience depends on your own pain threshold. The area behind your ear tends to be quite boney, with thin skin and not a lot of fat which means you’ll feel the vibrations of the tattoo machine on your bones. This can be an uncomfortable feeling for a lot of people.
4. Choosing the Right Tattoo Design
Selecting the right design is crucial for ensuring your tattoo is both personally meaningful and professionally appropriate.
4.1. Small and Simple Designs: A Safe Bet
Opting for small, simple designs can minimize the risk of appearing unprofessional. Minimalist designs, such as geometric shapes, tiny symbols, or single words, are often well-received.
4.2. Meaningful Symbols: Personal and Professional Harmony
Choose symbols that hold personal significance while remaining inoffensive and appropriate for the workplace. Consider elements like nature-inspired designs, abstract art, or subtle nods to your passions.
4.3. Avoiding Controversial Imagery: Staying on the Safe Side
Steer clear of potentially offensive or controversial imagery, including violent, political, or culturally insensitive designs. When in doubt, choose a design that is universally appealing and unlikely to cause offense.
5. Tattoo Aftercare and Maintenance
Proper aftercare is essential for preserving the appearance and longevity of your tattoo, as well as preventing infections.
5.1. Immediate Aftercare: Protecting Your Investment
Follow your tattoo artist’s aftercare instructions carefully, which typically includes cleaning the area with mild soap, applying a thin layer of tattoo-specific ointment, and keeping the tattoo covered.
5.2. Long-Term Maintenance: Preserving Your Ink
Protect your tattoo from sun exposure by applying sunscreen regularly. Keep the skin moisturized to prevent fading and maintain the tattoo’s vibrancy. Regular moisturizing helps prevent the ink from fading and keeps the skin healthy.
5.3. Addressing Fading: Touch-Ups and Options
If your tattoo begins to fade, consider getting a touch-up from your tattoo artist to restore its original appearance. Proper care can minimize fading, but touch-ups are a normal part of tattoo maintenance.
6. Navigating Workplace Policies
Understanding and navigating workplace policies regarding tattoos is essential for maintaining a positive professional image.
6.1. Researching Company Culture: Know Before You Ink
Before getting a visible tattoo, research your company’s culture and policies regarding body art. Check employee handbooks, observe colleagues, and ask HR representatives for clarification if needed.
6.2. Disclosure Strategies: Being Proactive and Transparent
Consider disclosing your tattoo during the hiring process or before it becomes visible. This demonstrates transparency and allows you to address any concerns proactively.
6.3. Accommodating Policies: Covering Up When Necessary
Be prepared to cover up your tattoo if required by your employer. Keep a scarf, bandage, or long-sleeved shirt on hand to accommodate workplace policies.
7. Industries Where Behind-the-Ear Tattoos Are More Accepted
Certain industries are more accepting of tattoos than others. Knowing which fields embrace body art can influence your career choices and tattoo decisions.
7.1. Creative Fields: Celebrating Individuality
Creative fields such as graphic design, advertising, and marketing often celebrate individuality and self-expression, making them more accepting of tattoos.
7.2. Tech Industry: A Progressive Environment
The tech industry tends to be progressive and open-minded, with many companies valuing innovation and creativity over traditional corporate norms.
7.3. Hospitality and Entertainment: Expressive and Open
The hospitality and entertainment industries often embrace tattoos as a form of self-expression, particularly in roles that involve customer interaction and personal branding.
8. Industries Where Behind-the-Ear Tattoos May Be Problematic
Conversely, some industries may view tattoos less favorably, potentially leading to challenges in career advancement.
8.1. Finance and Banking: Conservative Outlooks
Finance and banking sectors often maintain a conservative outlook, with strict dress codes and expectations for professional appearance.
8.2. Law and Government: Maintaining a Formal Image
Law and government positions typically require a formal image, and visible tattoos may be seen as unprofessional or inappropriate.
8.3. Healthcare: Concerns About Professionalism
Healthcare settings may have concerns about professionalism and hygiene, leading to restrictions on visible tattoos, particularly those that could be perceived as unsanitary or unprofessional.
9. Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions
Addressing common concerns and misconceptions about tattoos can help dispel myths and promote greater understanding.
9.1. Debunking Stereotypes: Tattoos and Competence
Challenge the stereotype that tattoos are indicative of incompetence or lack of professionalism. Highlight the skills, qualifications, and work ethic that define your professional identity.
9.2. Open Communication: Addressing Employer Concerns
Engage in open communication with employers to address any concerns they may have about your tattoos. Offer to cover up your tattoos if necessary and demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a professional image.
9.3. Showcasing Professionalism: Actions Speak Louder Than Ink
Let your actions speak louder than your ink. Demonstrate professionalism through your work ethic, communication skills, and commitment to excellence.
10. Alternatives to Behind-the-Ear Tattoos
If you’re concerned about the potential impact of a behind-the-ear tattoo on your career, consider alternative placements that are more easily concealed.
10.1. Easily Concealed Placements: The Power of Choice
- Upper Arm: Tattoos on the upper arm can be easily covered with short sleeves.
- Ankle: Ankle tattoos are discreet and can be concealed with socks or pants.
- Rib Cage: Tattoos on the rib cage are easily hidden under clothing.
10.2. Temporary Tattoos: Testing the Waters
Consider using temporary tattoos to test out different designs and placements before committing to permanent ink.
10.3. Consulting with Tattoo Artists: Professional Advice
Consult with experienced tattoo artists for advice on tattoo placement and design. They can offer valuable insights based on their knowledge of industry trends and professional standards.
11. Behind-the-Ear Tattoo Ideas
Tattoos don’t always have to be super meaningful and when it comes to designs you should get whatever you love. Behind the ear is the perfect placement for dainty small tattoos as well as larger pieces. We’re always here to inspire your next tattoo with some of our favorites we’ve seen lately.
11.1. Stars Behind Your Ears
We love these glitter star designs and the finger one matches these perfectly.
11.2. Lucky or Angel Numbers
Bring a little luck into your life or show your spiritual connection with number tattoos. We think 11:11 would make a good behind the ear tattoo too.
11.3. Butterfly Tattoo
A timeless classic, butterflies look so pretty behind the ear, as if they’ve landed on you.
11.4. Florals Behind the Ear Tattoo
Pop your favorite flower behind your ear for a burst of color.
11.5. Men’s Behind the Ear Tattoo
We don’t think tattoos should be gendered but sometimes a placement becomes popular with one gender in particular. From what we’ve seen on socials, more women tend to have behind the ear tattoos. But men, don’t let that stop you from getting one. Behind the ear tattoo ideas for men include feathers, script, wings, important dates or times. Or anything you want!
11.6. Behind the Ear Tattoos for Women
Like we’ve said, we don’t think tattoos or designs should be gendered – it’s your body so have whatever you like tattooed. From what we’ve seen online, womens’ behind the ear tattoos include stars, flowers, insects, music notes, mandalas and more.
12. Expert Opinions on Tattoos and Professionalism
Gaining insights from tattoo artists, career counselors, and HR professionals can offer valuable perspectives on tattoos and professionalism.
12.1. Tattoo Artists: Balancing Art and Career
Tattoo artists can provide guidance on design choices and placement that balance artistic expression with professional considerations. They can offer advice on tattoo visibility and suggest designs that are more likely to be accepted in various workplaces.
12.2. Career Counselors: Navigating Workplace Norms
Career counselors can offer advice on navigating workplace norms and addressing potential concerns about tattoos during the job search. They can help you develop strategies for disclosing your tattoos and showcasing your skills and qualifications.
12.3. HR Professionals: Understanding Company Policies
HR professionals can provide insights into company policies regarding tattoos and offer guidance on maintaining a professional image in the workplace. They can clarify dress code requirements and address any concerns you may have about tattoo visibility.
13. Stories & Ink’s award-winning tattoo vibrancy serum
Fight the fade! Try Stories & Ink’s award-winning tattoo vibrancy serum. Leave on overnight and wake up to brighter, fresher-looking tattoos. Find out what else can cause your tattoos to fade and how you can avoid them in our journal.
Stories & Ink tattoo vibrancy serum
14. Stories & Ink Aftercare Duo
Her go-to tattoo aftercare routine is:
- Making sure to clean your tattoo.
- Air drying or patting it dry with a clean towel.
- Applying a thin layer of cocoa better, aftercare cream or whatever your artist recommends.
- Repeating this a few times a day for a few days.
Always make sure to keep a close eye on your tattoo for any signs of infection.
Stories & Ink Aftercare Duo
15. How to Prepare for Your New Tattoo
Preparing for a new tattoo is super important, Emily explains that you should “try and take care of the skin behind your ear as best you can if you’re planning to get it tattooed. This just means keeping it clean and moisturised.” Get ready for your next tattoo appointment with more tips in our preparation guide.
For anyone who is nervous about a behind the ear tattoo, Emily has words of wisdom to put you at ease:
“It can seem like a daunting place to get tattooed, as it’s fairly visible and anywhere near your head, neck or face can seem a bit scary at first! To combat the nerves, make sure you research your artist to find someone who’s going to do the best job for you of the style of tattoo you’re looking for, and chat to them about any worries you have.”
“A good artist will be more than happy to put you at ease and talk you through the process. (And be prepared that you might have to have a few of your baby hairs shaved, but we promise they’ll grow back soon).”
16. Factors Affecting the Cost of Behind the Ear Tattoos
The cost of a behind the ear tattoo will depend on where you are in the UK or world and your artist. If your design is small your tattooer may charge a minimum rate which could be anywhere from £40 – £100. If your design is more detailed, larger in size or uses coloured ink you could be charged based on an hourly rate: anywhere from £50 – £200 depending on your artist.
Again the cost of the tattoo depends on the artist you choose, your design and budget. Remember tattoos are for life, it’s worth investing in your body art. Kezz from Tattoo Smarter explains why tattoos are so expensive on the blog.
17. Are Behind the Ear Tattoos Easy to Hide?
Sometimes there might be an event or situation where you need to cover your tattoos. It’s not ideal and we wish everyone loved tattoos as much as we do. But there you go. Behind the ear tattoos are simple enough to hide if you have long hair, you can leave it down or wear it in a side pony – you may even forget your tattoo is there. You could use foundation to cover it, wear a scarf or stick a plaster on it (this may draw more attention than the tattoo would).
18. What Does a Tattoo Behind the Ear Mean?
Like with any tattoos you can assign your own meaning to a design. If you get a cross behind your ear this can represent your religion and spirituality whereas a music note can show your love of music. The meaning can be as personal and deep as you like.
Unless you’re actively trying to hide your tattoo, behind the ear tattoos are usually pretty visible. So it’s a good spot to show off what’s important to you whether this is a small symbol, a name or just something for fun – it’s up to you.
19. Call to Action
Ready to explore the fascinating world of tattoos? Visit tattooat.com for endless inspiration, expert advice, and the latest trends in body art. Discover stunning designs, find talented artists, and learn everything you need to know about tattoo aftercare. Whether you’re dreaming of your first tattoo or adding to your collection, tattooat.com is your ultimate guide. Start your journey today and express yourself with confidence. Located at 1825 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97201, United States. Contact us at +1 (503) 725-3000 or visit our website tattooat.com to learn more.
20. FAQs About Behind-the-Ear Tattoos
20.1. Are Behind-the-Ear Tattoos Painful?
Yes, behind-the-ear tattoos can be painful due to the thin skin and proximity to bone, but the pain level varies from person to person.
20.2. How Long Does a Behind-the-Ear Tattoo Take to Heal?
A behind-the-ear tattoo typically takes 2-4 weeks to heal fully.
20.3. Can I Wash My Hair After Getting a Behind-the-Ear Tattoo?
Yes, but be careful to avoid getting shampoo and soap directly on the tattoo during the initial healing period.
20.4. Will a Behind-the-Ear Tattoo Fade Quickly?
Tattoos in this area can fade if not properly cared for, so it’s important to protect them from sun exposure and keep the skin moisturized.
20.5. What Are Some Popular Designs for Behind-the-Ear Tattoos?
Popular designs include stars, flowers, musical notes, and small meaningful symbols.
20.6. How Do I Choose a Reputable Tattoo Artist?
Look for an artist with a strong portfolio, positive reviews, and a clean, professional studio.
20.7. Are Behind-the-Ear Tattoos Suitable for All Skin Types?
Yes, behind-the-ear tattoos can work on various skin types, but consult with your artist for personalized advice.
20.8. Can I Get a Behind-the-Ear Tattoo Removed?
Yes, laser tattoo removal is an option, but it can be costly and may require multiple sessions.
20.9. What Should I Avoid After Getting a Behind-the-Ear Tattoo?
Avoid direct sunlight, soaking the tattoo in water, and wearing tight-fitting hats or accessories that could rub against the tattoo.
20.10. How Can I Protect My Tattoo From Fading?
Use sunscreen, keep the skin moisturized, and consider getting touch-ups as needed to maintain the tattoo’s vibrancy.
