Tattoos For Older People

Tattoos have always been a controversial topic, and they still are. For many, tattooed symbols have a negative connotation that can raise an eyebrow. Other people view them as a form of art that is worn proudly while others feel tattoos destroy a God-given, natural body. What is your opinion?

Times have changed drastically lately, and today, even older adults are considering getting tattoos. If this is true with you, you may feel that it is 'too late' or that getting a tattoo while you are older is 'eccentric' and that you will be frowned upon.

In this article, will discuss three reasons you may be hesitant to get a tattoo and whether these reasons are valid. Then, we will talk about seven essential things you should know before you decide to get one.3 Reasons People Don’t Get Tattoos.

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What will others think?

For older adults, one of the top reasons for hesitation when it comes to tattoos is what family and friends will think. Since tattoos are generally considered of as being something for the 'younger' generation. Getting a tattoo in your 70’s or 80’s may be an unheard of practice.

The older you get, the more aware you are of yourself. You are less likely to regret decisions because life has taught you many lessons that have molded you into who you are today. Retirement is a time to explore new passions, go on new adventures, and do things you have never done before. So if this includes getting a tattoo, then so be it.

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What if I regret my decision?

Again, as an older adult, you are not easily swayed by the norms of society and are less likely to get a tattoo you will regret. You know exactly what you want and why you want it. You know what you will be proud of and what you won’t be proud of.

To be safe, many older adults decide on getting symbolic tattoos that they won't regret. These may include symbols such as angels, butterflies, quotes, numbers, or flowers. Of course, you will still need to think hard about what symbol you will allow being a permanent part of your body.

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What if I can’t get a job?

Some seniors still plan to work through their retirement, so getting a tattoo may be less appealing. It has always been thought that those with visible tattoos are less likely to get jobs in the professional world, but times are changing. The truth is, the professional world is more lenient towards tattoos.

If you already work professionally, you are already well established and have nothing to worry about. If you are looking to get part-time work in your retirement, you can be assured that getting a tattoo will not affect your professional life at all. These days, there are lawyers, doctors, judges, teachers, and other professionals who all have visible tattoos and are still doing well in their jobs.

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7 Things to Consider Before You Get a Tattoo

If getting a tattoo is becoming more and more appealing to you, don’t decide just yet. There are some things about tattoos in general and the process of getting them that you ought to know.

1. Getting a tattoo is painful

There is no hiding behind this fact- getting a tattoo is painful. The process of tattoo art involves multiple needles puncturing your skin all at once to insert ink. With this in mind, it is wise you think about your pain tolerance.

The bigger the tattoo or more elaborate the design, the more it will hurt. Also, the location of the symbol will have a significant effect on how painful it is. Some blood is expected, so if you are one of those who have a phobia to blood or needles, perhaps a temporary tattoo will do for now.

2. Your reason matters.. a lot...

There is no end to the reasons people decide to get tattoos. Some want to be cool. Other's do it to show their enduring love and affection. Some want to express rebellion. But your reason is the most important of all.

Remember, reversing a tattoo will be very costly, so you must believe in your reasons for getting inked. Your purpose doesn't have to be extravagant, but it does have to be something you believe in, something you can defend.

Never get a tattoo to impress someone or because of peer pressure. Your decision should be yours and yours alone.

3. Skin allergies and medical conditions

Skin allergies are another essential consideration before deciding to get a tattoo. If you already have a known allergy, you will have to consult a doctor before getting a tattoo. Also, consider any other conditions you might have that may interfere with the healing process. Remember, you will be drilled with multiple needles with chemicals so your skin may not react well.

Some reactions may be minor such as itchiness or irritation while others more severe, including rashes or swelling. Lumps may also form around the area. During the process, be alert to how your body is reacting and don't' be afraid to stop the process if you feel weird. Remember, better safe than sorry.

4. The shop and its sanitation

Unlike hospitals that have fixed protocols when it comes to needles and hygiene in general, tattoo shops depend on the owner. When you decide to get a tattoo, you need to make sure that the artist practices proper sanitation with their equipment.

Perhaps you can pay a visit and observe where the needles are stored, whether he uses new gloves for each customer and other sanitation issues. Also, the tattoo shop should have a high degree of cleanliness with proper ventilation. After all, getting a tattoo involves opened skin and a lot of blood, all of which can cause contamination.

5. Aftercare is a lot of work

If you think getting a tattoo is as easy as entering a shop and walking out with your new design ready to show the world, you are dead wrong. Remember that a fresh tattoo is an open wound that will need extreme care to heal properly.

Aftercare will involve washing the wound several times a day with antibacterial soap, regularly applying healing ointment and moisturizer, and much more. Once the old skin starts to peel away, you will then need to fight the urge to scratch it.

These are just a few of the things you will need to do if your tattoo is to come out right. So if you don’t fancy caring for wounds or find it too time-consuming, then getting a tattoo might not be a good idea.

6. The monetary cost of getting a tattoo

Considering the time and skill required in the tattoo process, it is not surprising that tattoos are quite costly. Several factors can contribute to the price of a tattoo:

• The artist- a professional artist, may charge $100-$300 per hour

• The color-fewer colors equal to less cost and the more details, the more expensive

• Location- if the tattoo will be located on a sensitive part such as the feet, hands, or neck, the price increases.

• The design-a simple design can cost between $50 to $100 while a personalized one is much more expensive

• Parlor location- tattoo shops located in bustling cities are generally more costly than those in the country

In short, getting a tattoo may be something you have to plan for financially, especially if you intend to get an extravagantly designed, large tattoo.

7. The correct timing

One of the biggest mistakes first-timers make is getting a tattoo in the summer. Direct sunlight irritates and will harm a fresh tattoo causing it to fade earlier than usual. If you want your tattoo to be ready to flaunt by summer, make sure you get it early like during the winter or fall.

Getting a tattoo during winter or fall is also the best because you typically wear more clothes outdoors during these months. This will shield your new tattoo from the sunlight and foster better healing.

Also, remember that you should not go swimming while the tattoo is fresh. You don't want any bacteria entering your wound and causing havoc. If you have any swimming trips planned, factor this in before making your appointment with the tattoo shop.

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Conclusion

The bottom line when it comes to getting tattoos in your older years is this: it is your decision. You will get a lot of negative comments from friends and family, so if you are not ready for that, don’t go for it. On the other hand, if getting a tattoo is something that you always wanted to do, then this is your chance.

Remember that a tattoo will stay with you for the rest of your life, so think long and hard before making any rash decisions. You may conclude that it is too late to get a tattoo and that you have already defined yourself with no need for symbols to remind you.