For most tattoo artists they’re not worried whether you’re guy, girl or somewhere in between if you’re in their chair, but for decades this male dominated industry has also been primarily patronized by men. The stereotyped “tattooed woman” started out as a sideshow attraction, an oddity, something to be stared at for being different. Now the numbers of women getting inked are skyrocketing, and more women than ever are going under the needle. So what specifics should women be looking for when they get tattooed?
1. Avoid “that” time of the month.
You know your body better than anybody which means you know exactly which days you’re most sensitive. Those days when just wearing a bra hurts and having rough fabrics on your skin feels like sandpaper are bad days to get tattooed. Before booking your appointment make notes the month before to note days when your pain tolerance or sensitivity is especially high or low. This will differ for most women but usually that time of the month has the widest swings which is why it’s a good idea to stay away. Not only that, but if you’re going to be sitting for a long time it’s doubly miserable.
2. Do Not Be Intimidated
Most artists are professionals who have worked on hundreds of women. They aren’t interested in peeking (unless that’s where you’re getting tattooed) and aren’t trying to get into your pants when doing their job. While many of the guys can look big and scary looking they’re likely dads, husbands, sons, and normal human beings just like you. You’re just another customer but if you feel like there’s some sort of vibe you’re not comfortable with you can always walk away. It’s important to choose a shop that you feel comfortable in but it’s your choice to patronize a business or not.
3. Choose Wisely
Tattoos are permanent which means that while fashion plays a big influence for some women that fashionable choice might not be so fashionable 20 or 40 years down the line. The same goes for making decisions based on boyfriends or people who might not be around that long. Make your own choices and be your own person. The same goes for pulling ideas off pinterest and getting the exact same tattoo thousands of other girls have. Listen to your artist. Their experience means that when they tell you your breast area is unsuited for a certain tattoo don’t take it personally. Some people’s anatomy is better suited than others and they have your best interest at heart because they want you to be happy with it in the end.
4. Change Your Beauty Routine
Make up, scented soaps, perfumes, and other cosmetic products can seriously irritate a tattoo. If you’re getting tattooed in an area where you normally apply these then give them a rest for a week or two while your tattoo is healing. The same goes for tanning, even if you’re faking it. Fake tan is like paint so it can discolor your tattoo permanently if you get it while it’s healing.
5. Think twice about your Stomach and Breasts
You should get your tattoos where you want, but these areas are the most likely to change over the course of your life. Your skin stretches and will change so that dolphin could end up looking like a whale if you gain weight or get pregnant. It may never go back to the same shape it was afterwards anyway but if you’re planning an important tattoo or one that you want to treasure rather than risk covering up consider a different area.
