Tattoo Designs - Which to Choose?

Posted by Admin Wednesday, September 28, 2011 0 comments

Choosing a tattoo for the first time can be a hard thing to do, especially when the tattoo is going to be permanent on your body for the rest of your life. Now which tattoo designs should you choose? First thing you need to consider is WHY you are getting the tattoo, what is your motive behind the tattoo? What do you want to express through the tattoo? This will surely help you cut down your search options so that you can choose the perfect tattoo design that you want.

I have a few in my mind that I don't mind sharing, so here they are:
- If you enjoy outside stuff such as trees, nature in general, animals, and other things, you can use this as a motivation to get the tattoo in this category.
- Another thing you can think about is if you love art. What kind of artist comes to your mind, what kind of art design comes to your mind and stuff along those areas.
- There are a lot of people out there that use famous people such as poets, music artists and what not.
- These days, I myself have seen many people use Graffiti type of tattoo's on their body all the time.
- Many people these days are also looking at Tribal or Celtic types of tattoo's to show off on their body.
- Some of the other tattoo designs include cultural tattoos, historical tattoos, etc.
- You know what would be a good idea, getting Abstract Tattoo's on your body. I have seen people use this type as well.
- A unique way to express is writing quotes in different languages on your body as well.
- Maybe you can try tattoo mixing? Perhaps mix several different tattoos into some type of tattoo?

You know what would make you really stand out is if you created your OWN type of tattoo. Sure, you can go to a Tattoo parlor and get a random tattoo through a design book, but does it really make sense to be unoriginal? Would you not like to be creative and want to stand out from the crowd? You can create your own types of tattoo(s) if you want. Let me share a few ideas with you just to give you a head start.

- Neck to Leg, Full out Fire Dragon on back or front of body
- Crying baby from your neck to your legs on your back or front

These are just a few ideas that you may consider. In all my years of tattoo designing and studying, I have never seen those kinds of tattoos done to anyone before, so this may be a good chance for you to snag a pretty good design or designs.

Now you maybe thinking, why create my own tattoos when I can just get a already created one? As I've said above, it's better to be unique than to carry an overused tattoo. You can add your OWN personal touch to your tattoo. Add as much detail you want to your tattoo, as much as you want. Just remember than the bigger in details your tattoo is, the more expensive your tattoo may get, depending on which tattoo parlor you go to, just keep that in mind.

There is one type of tattoo that interests me the most out of everything and that is Full Sleeve Tattoo Designs. What is it you may ask? Full sleeve tattoo design is the popularity tattoo designs that not are only carried by a regular person, but famous people such as celebrities, soccer players, football players, basketball players and other sports people carry, as well as many other types of famous people.

One of the main reasons as to why people really do this type of tattooing is because they want to unravel a story that they are trying to give off. For example, I have seen a famous soccer player that carries a full arm tattoo and his tattoo signifies what he loves, which is soccer and the love for his country. People in this type of tattooing always express personal touches and personal expressions.

There is one thing that I would like to warn you about and what to do about it. You are going to be stuck with a tattoo for a LONG, LONG time, so you might as well choose a tattoo worth your while. So you should do what some famous people have done. Start your tattoo design off small, meaning start your tattoo design small and then work your way up from there. The beauty of having new technology is that you can see how a tattoo will look on you before you wear it, so be sure to look on the computer to see if the tattoo is right for you or not. Start off with a small tattoo and then work your way from there. Carefully choose every portion of your tattoo remembering that you WILL be stuck with this tattoo for a very long time. You may want to put several small tattoos together to make a larger tattoo or you could put a few large tattoos together to make a rather large, but unique tattoo to show off.

So basically, after all of the information I have shared with you in this article, I just want to sum it all up by giving you a short summary. What I have talked to you above in this article can be summarized like this:

1. Gather up a design idea for your tattoo (either from a design book or your own design)
2. Finalize on a design that will perfectly suit you and the type of person you are.
3. Find a tattoo artist
a. This shouldn't be much of a hard task at all. Every city has tattoo designs, just look on the Internet if you have trouble.
4. Test your tattoo design
5. Have your tattoo design done on your body.

Problems With Healing Tattoos

Posted by Admin Saturday, September 3, 2011 0 comments

Signs of Normal Healing

At first the tattoo looks shiny, swollen and the colors are extra bright. Within 24 hours the scab forms, this should be very thin, looks like the tattoo and with proper care is slightly flexible.

After about 4-5 days the tattoo will go through a period of peeling. This looks similar to a sunburn peeling. The scab that peels off will be the color of the tattoo, and it will look like your tattoo is flaking off. Sometimes this stage is accompanied by mild itching which can be relieved by rubbing it gently with more ointment or lotion.

Do not ever leave your tattoo slick or sticky.
Always blot off any extra ointment or lotion.

When the tattoo is completely done pealing you will notice a layer underneath the new tattoo that contains healing skin cells that will cause the skin to seem milky rather than transparent. Don't worry about this; it's all part of the healing process and only takes about a month to go away. If you want, you can put lotion on the tattoo to help it look brighter and more healed during this final stage of healing.

Symptoms of Bad Healing

When healing goes wrong there are very few things that can happen. Some of the signs that things are going wrong are; extreme seeping, heavy scabbing, excessive inflammation, and sometimes a rash (little bumps) or pimples.

Often when things go wrong people assume that the tattoo is infected. Unless you work or live in a very dirty environment (see below) it probably isn't. You should always show the tattoo to your artists before heading for the doctors' office.

Most doctors know nothing about tattoo after care and some of them are prejudice against tattoos. They often time prescribe unnecessary drugs and treatment that can make the healing even worse.

A professional tattoo artist has been trained in healing correction. They know what infected tattoos look like and will only send you to a doctor when necessary. Seeing the right person can save you time and money, not to mention the finished look of your tattoo.

Aftercare Mistakes

Neglect -

If you don't practice good personal hygiene, pick your tattoo, wear tight clothing or let clothing stick to it, scrub the tattoo, or take too long or are not careful in the shower, your tattoo will not look nice when it is finished healing. It can have ink missing and sometimes heavy scar tissue over it.
Always follow the care instructions. If you feel like you don't understand them, please call and ask for help. Though we can not correct healing issues without actually seeing the tattoo, we are happy to teach you more about our healing instructions.

We'd rather spend a few extra minutes helping you to have a good healing than to have to try to fix up a tattoo healing gone wrong.

Your Health -

If you have any immunity deficiencies, blood disorders such as diabetes, or are on certain medications such as steroids or blood thinners your tattoo could be affected. It could take longer to heal and not turn out very well.

It is a good idea to consult your doctor before getting a tattoo if you suspect there may be a problem. It is a good idea to inform your artist of any health issues so they can tailor the healing to meet your needs.

Damaged Skin -

Long term cigarette smoking, drinking too many soft drinks, eating poorly, and over exposure to the sun damages skin. A tattoo on damaged skin will rarely look as good as one on healthy skin.

Sometimes the colors and lines aren't as bright or clear as they would have been and the artists can not do anything about it. If you have damaged skin you will have to keep your expectations reasonable. Sometimes if the skin is damaged the artist will want to do the tattoo in stages as avoid overworking* it and to hopefully make the healing process easier on you.

If your skin is older, thin, weak, or sun damaged it can also be harder to heal. However, with a little patience and care the tattoo can heal out fine. So be sure to follow the directions carefully and for the full length of time, which can be longer than healthy skin

(*When the skin is damaged it is very easy for the artist to accidentally overwork the tattoo. Doing this it can also cause the scabbing to be thicker. If this happens it isn't the end of the world. Just be patient and when the tattoo is completely healed your artist will want to touch it up for you.)

Sun Exposure -

The sun is your tattoos worst enemy, if you expose your healing tattoo to the sun it can fade the ink before it is even healed. Tattoos that are exposed to the sun too soon look faded, blurry, washed out and much older than they should. Under no circumstances expose your healing tattoo to prolonged direct sunlight or tanning.

Even a healed tattoo, with time, will fade when exposed to the sun or tanning beds. If you must expose your healed tattoo to those evil UV rays are sure to use a high SPF sun block (at least 45)

Allergic Reactions to Latex -

If you are allergic to latex you will more than likely know before you get your tattoo. Let the artist know so they can accommodate you. The signs of an allergic reaction to latex are extreme rash/redness in the case of latex (from gloves worn by the artist) we can use non-latex gloves and tape on you.

Allergies to Tattoo Ink -

Allergic reactions to tattoo ink are very, very, rare but unfortunately possible. Most professional tattoo pigments are made out of natural ingredients that shouldn't cause a problem. They have been proven by their use successfully in the tattoo industry for many years.

Most people don't have any idea they are allergic to certain colors of ink until after the tattoo has been applied. However we have noticed that people who are allergic to metals and have reactions to cheep jewelry often do react. At our shops, we have only seen reactions with one particular red which we rarely use.

If you are allergic to a pigment it will be evident by just that particular color bubbling and raising off of your skin. It looks like a blister or a raised red mole. It will itch and not look completely healed no matter how long it has been.

You have two choices. One is to remove the offending color or to use hydrocortisone cream to control the itching and promote healing which can take up to 5 years. Removal is not any more painful than the tattoo process and after it heals another color can be used to finish the tattoo.

If you are concerned about having a reaction to tattoo ink ask your artist about doing a "prick test" where a small dot of each color to be used in your potential artwork is tattooed under your skin at least 10 days before your tattoo. This will cost you extra money, but if you have a lot of allergies sometimes it is better to be safe than sorry.

Exposures to Toxins or Bacteria -

If you work/live in an environment with dirt and filth you run the risk of infection. Emergency rooms, nursing homes, hospitals, being around animals & their waste, toxic chemicals, and filth of all kinds can cause serious infections.

It is nearly impossible to get an infection in a professionally applied tattoo. Tattoo shops are required to use more safety precautions than hospitals, doctors, and dentists do. Most shops are inspected regularly by the local health department and display a certificate of their status. If you are still worried about the shop, go someplace else.

Be smart and use common sense. If you have a dirty job, wear loose protective clothing and do not touch your tattoo unless you have washed your hands. Dirty bedding is another problem. Put fresh sheets on your bed if you haven't done so within a few days of getting your tattoo. Wear clean clothing. Use clean towels and washcloths.

Advices from Family & Friends -

When things go wrong people tend to panic. Tattoo healing problems are not an emergency.
If you think that you are having a reaction to your tattoo or the aftercare, the best thing to do is to go back to the tattoo shop where you got the tattoo. It is very important that you consult your artist.

After looking at the problem and asking a few basic questions they can tell what the issues are and help you over come them. Very few healing problems are unsolvable or require medication.

Do not go to your friends and family for advice. They do not have the training to help you. There is a lot of out of date tattoo folk lore going around. Everyone you talk to will have a different opinion and idea of what to do. This can be dangerous.

Advices from Other Tattoo Shops -
Do not go to another tattoo shop. Each artist uses the care instructions that they know will heal their work the best. This is usually different from one artist to another. What works well for one artist can mess up someone else's work.

Another problem with going to a different shop is that tattoo shops are very competitive with each other and an unethical unprofessional tattooist will lie to persuade clients to switch artists. They will sometimes go so far as to give out bad advice to ensure the failure of the tattoo.

Do not call around, or look for advice on the internet. NO ONE can help you without seeing the tattoo first.

Your artist knows how you can save your tattoo if you deal with the situation right away. Do not rely on outside sources.

Do the right thing. Take care of your investment. You're going to have it the rest of your life...

Kita Kazoo has 20+ years of tattoo experience and is co-owner of Happy Valley Tattoo & Piercing in American Fork, Utah. You can see photos of her studio and some of the tattoos she has done at her website - tat2me.com.

By Kita Kazoo

Tattoo Laser Removal and Other Options

Posted by Admin Monday, August 29, 2011 0 comments

Throughout history tattoo removal has been done in different way using various techniques. Tattoo laser removal is one of the most popular ways to get rid of unwanted tattoos but it is also the most expense and the pain can be excruciating.

The average cost of tattoo laser removal is around $2000. That's to have something removed that originally cost about $100. And tattoo laser removal usually takes anywhere between 1 to 10 treatments.

But tattoo laser removal isn't the only option. There are other methods for getting rid of tattoos. Here are some other options that you might want to consider:

Intense Pulsed Light Therapy

Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL) uses high intensity light. A gel is applied to the skin and then a wand is used to emit pulses of light onto the tattooed area. IPL is less painful than laser therapy, and said to be more effective. But it is also very expensive with some clinics charging $10 per pulse!

Surgical Excision

Another tattoo removal is Excision, which is used when the tattoo area is small. This method can be used with larger tattoos but it may be necessary to excise the tattoo in stages. This method involves an injection of local anesthetic to the area. The tattoo is surgically removed and the edges of the skin are brought together and sutured. In some cases with large tattoos, a skin graft from another part of the body may be necessary.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is done by spraying a solution that freezes the tattoo area. And then the tattoo is sanded with an abrasive rotary instrument which makes the skin to peel off. Bleeding will probably occur, and a dressing will be needed.

Salabrasion

Salabrasion is a very old tattoo removal procedure. A local anesthetic is used on the tattooed area and then a solution of tap water and table salt is applied. An abrasive instrument is used to vigorously scrub the area. After the tattooed skin area turns a deep red, a dressing is applied.

The best tattoo removal method will depend upon the size of the tattoo, its location on the body, and how long it as been there. Other factors that need to be considered include whether the tattoo is homemade or professional, the darkness or lightness of colors, and if newer inks were used. In other words, it's a tricky situation and some research should be done to decide what technique will work best for each tattoo.

Doing some research will help you decide which of the tattoo removal methods is right for you. You could save a lot of money if you happen to have the type of tattoo that can be erased fairly easily. Research the options and the different kinds of tattoos that respond well to each method, the decide if you can go with a home remedy or if you need to shell out the big bucks for tattoo laser removal.

And a new e-book called "Tattoo Removal Methods and Procedures" will make the research oh so easy for you. In it you will find 15 methods that you can use to remove tattoos right away. You will learn how each tattoo removal method has its own advantages and disadvantages. Save money by finding out what tattoo removal method is best for your tattoo - before you spend thousands on an expensive tattoo laser removal procedure.

If you are considering having a tattoo removed don't just shell out a couple thousand dollars without first learning all the options and which one is best for you. You just might be able to save yourself a ton of money, and even do it yourself, by reading Tattoo Removal Methods and Procedures. Make tattoo laser surgery and the $2000 bill attached to it, your last option. To find out which tattoo removal method is best for you, click on http://tattoo-laser-removal.weebly.com right now.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3079099

Best References For Choosing Tattoo Designs For Women

Posted by Admin 0 comments

Regardless of the reason for you interest in tattoo designs, tattoos have actually been known as a popular art form for many years now. Originally utilized as a form of artwork that contained special meanings used to portray leadership, status, or even ownership, by today's terms tattoos are known as nothing more than a fashion statement. Tattoos are utilized to express a person's uniqueness, which makes creating a completely unique tattoo design ideas all the more important. Here are some simple tips that can help you develop completely unique tattoo ideas that are unique to only you.

First, take a look at other tattoo ideas for some inspiration. If you feel like an artist staring at a blank canvas when it comes to creating unique tattoo designs that are uniquely you, sometimes you need some inspiration to help create the right tattoo ideas. While you will not want to copy someone else's tattoo idea, taking a look at their ideas may just provide you with the help you need in order to create the design that is completely you.

Second, refer to books, stickers, posters, stationary and any other images for inspiration. When it comes to creating unique designs, you may find that your inspiration can be found in the unlikeliest of places. Don't assume that your tattoo ideas need to come from an existing design, the perfect design can come from nearly anywhere. Keep an eye out for images that truly inspire you and you may be on your way to creating the perfect tattoo ideas that are as unique as you are.

Third, determine if you prefer color or the simplicity of black and grey. When it comes to creating unique tattoos don't assume that your tattoo of choice has to be in color. Determining which style of tattoo will look best on you can help you greatly in creating your unique tattoo designs.

Fourth, don't be afraid to get creative. Don't assume that your unique tattoo have to be an image that is easily recognizable by any person who looks at it. If you prefer things that are more abstract you can create tattoo designs that only you will know exactly what it is meant to represent. Let your creativity run wild and you are sure to come up with at least one of many tattoo ideas that is uniquely you.

Fifth, remember that you will have to live with your creation. When it comes to creating the tattoo design ideas that are best for you, you will want to make sure you create a design that you will be completely happy with. Tattoos are permanent and you will need to live with your decision for the rest of your life. While methods of removal do exist, most are painful, if all else quite expensive. Just make sure you settle on the right tattoo design ideas that you will still enjoy many years down the road.

Sixth, create a tattoo design ideas that have meaning. Regardless of the tattoo design you choose, you will want to make sure that it holds some form of important meaning to you. Since many people get a tattoo just for the sake of getting a tattoo, many don't realize that this form of artwork can be used to display images that hold a sentimental meaning to the person who wears it. Whether it's an image you like or the name of someone close to you that has passed on, you will want to make sure the unique tattoo you choose holds a special meaning to you. Don't worry about others understanding what the image represents that is for you to know and for them to find out if you care to share the meaning with them.

Seventh, choose tattoo ideas that fit with your personality. Since each person has different type of personality, each will have at least one unique tattoo idea that will be a great match for them alone. With a nearly unlimited amount of unique tattoo designs available on the web and from other sources, you are sure to find at least one design that you can modify into one that is uniquely you.

Lastly, turn to the web for some help in creating unique tattoo designs. If you have tried all the other sources, and you still haven't found the one unique tattoo design ideas that is unique to you alone. Many sites offer the ability to purchase unique tattoos, but you may want to use these designs for inspiration alone, otherwise you run the risk of obtaining a design that may already have a home on someone else's body.

These are just a few of the simple tips that can help you create tattoo design ideas that will be unique to only you. Envision any image you come across as a potential tattoo design idea, and create an idea that fits best with your personality, and you are sure to create at least one unique tattoo design that will be uniquely you.

Terry Daniels of TattooDesign-Reviews.com, specializes in helping individuals get the styles and designs they need to make the right tattoo choices. Terry leads his team of tattoo experts in constantly reviewing new products and packages in the market to make sure you get the best value tattoo designs that look good on you. Check out actual user reviews of tattoo design sites and galleries at TattooDesign-Reviews.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Daniels

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Tattoo After Care

Posted by Admin Saturday, August 27, 2011 0 comments

So, you need to know about tattoo after care because you are ready to get a new tattoo!
It may be your first time, or it may be your tenth time, but in every case, you should review your tattoo after care instructions prior to getting your new tattoo. You might wonder about the logic about looking at the instructions before getting your new tattoo, but it is like baking a cake, you just don't want to make any mistakes with these instructions because new tattoos are open wounds and susceptible to infection.
You must be attentive to your new tattoo, and keep it as clean as possible to ensure that it heals as cleanly as possible so you prevent infection and end up with the nicest looking tattoo possible.
While the healing stages of a tattoo will be as unique to each individual as there are people in this world, the tattoo healing process does follow a general pattern. The specifics of each tattoo's healing process will depend on the different skin type of the individual, the location of the tattoo on the body, an the techniques of the tattoo artist. These factors can all cause a variance in the healing process from individual to individual.
You will be given aftercare instructions by your tattoo artist. These aftercare instructions differ from artist to artist. My recommendation to you is if in doubt about anything, always go back to your tattoo artist before seeking the help of a doctor. Your tattoo artist can take a look at your tattoo and tell what to do if their is a problem to correct any healing problems.
If your tattoo artist cannot help, they should send you for medical attention from a doctor. If they do not, then of course, you must go yourself to make certain that your health is not at risk. This is your responsibility.
Many times doctors don't know much about tattoos and will prescribe unnecessary medications that may harm your tattoo's healing process. Some doctors may even be biased against tattoos. That is why I suggest that you go to the tattoo artist first if you suspect their is a healing problem with your new tattoo. The artist works with tattoos day in and day out and is familiar with the best way to heal their work.
When you leave the tattoo studio, you will have a bandage on your new tattoo to protect it from outside contact. This bandage should be removed 2- 3 hours after getting your tattoo. Your tattoo may bleed a little for the first 24 hours, remember, your new tattoo is akin to an open wound.
Before you remove your bandage, make sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water, in between the fingers, and under the fingernails. Then dry your hands with a clean paper towel. Do not use any old towel that is laying there, or even a clean towel as lint may be transferred to your hands.
Make sure you have not let a large amount of blood dry on your bandage so that it sticks. Be very, very gentle as you remove your bandage so as not to start the tattoo bleeding again. If you just rip off your bandage, you can mess up the appearance of your new tattoo, and you don't want to do that, now do you?
Wash your tattoo gently, very gently with anti-bacterial soap and water to clean it. Do not scrub your tattoo, do not use a washcloth, or anything else other than your fingers or hand to clean the tattoo. Do not rub, but "pat" the tattoo as you wash it. Then, when you are finished, pat the tattoo dry with a clean dry paper towel. Or, use clean toilet paper even, if you don't have any paper towels on hand.
Let your tattoo air dry for 15 minutes or so. This will promote healing.
After your tattoo has dried, apply a few drops of Emu Oil to your tattoo. The presence of essential fatty acids along with the hyper-oxygenation of Emu Oil naturally increases the circulation to the applied area which is why Emu Oil works so well and so quickly to heal.
Even though it is an oil, it has been proved that Emu Oil does not clog pores (unlike most commercially made tattoo aftercare products that are petroleum based), therefore allowing the skin to breathe during the healing process. Emu Oil penetrates through all seven layers of the skin and is rich in nutrients (essential fatty acids) that feed the skin to aid in new cell development that can hasten the healing process. Emu Oil is also a natural emollient keeping the skin moist and pliable.
The application of the Emu Oil immediately after the tattoo has been cleaned will also relieve the discomfort and reduce the inflammation and redness of the new tattoo. Emu Oil will help set the new colors due to its deep penetrating properties and will help reduce plasma oozing.
Using Emu Oil 2-3 times a day after repeating the cleaning process while the tattoo heals will keep the area moist reducing or eliminating the flaking or scabbing that often occurs as new tattoos heal. Emu Oil can prevent the need for touch ups which saves the artist time and money, and makes for a happy tattoo customer.
New tattoos will look red and swollen immediately following the tattoo procedure. The tattoo will continue to appear this way for a few days throughout the tattoo healing process. Within a week to ten days the skin surrounding the tattoo should be more back to normal - most tattoos are completely healed in three weeks time.
While it is healing it is important not to do the following things or you may damage your tattoo:
- Do Not scratch your new tattoo
- Do Not pick at your new tattoo
- Do Not expose your tattoo to sunlight or tanning beds under any circumstances
- No swimming, hot tubs or baths the first two weeks after getting your new tattoo
- Do Not shave the tattooed area for at least 30 days following the tattoo procedure
- Only touch your tattoo with clean hands, do not let others touch your tattoo
Not only is Emu Oil good for healing new tattoos, it is good for restoring older, aged, sun damaged tattoos as well. This is due to the natural hyper-oxygenation of Emu Oil which brings blood and oxygen to the surface of the skin. This, coupled with Emu Oil's ability to moisturize through all seven layers of the skin, allows users to see quick results when the oil is applied to older tattoos.
With the proper care of your tattoo from the start, there is no reason why you shouldn't enjoy the beauty of your tattoo for a lifetime.
Julie Chrisler writes articles on a wide variety of topics. She has been fascinated by tattoos for some number of years now after her 27 year old daughter started getting tattoos years when she was 16 and has grown to love them. Coupled with her love of tattoos is her fascination with Emu Oil, the "wonder oil from down under", which has helped her with her daily pain from Osteoarthrithis, among many other marvelous uses she has discovered for this wonder oil. Visit http://hubpages.com/hub/Tattoo-After-Care for more detailed information on Tattoo After Care.

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