At The University of Memphis, tattoos and body piercings have become commonplace. And this is no new fad that has just started to appear.
Some have reasons for having a tattoo; others don’t have any deep justification beyond the aesthetic appeal.
Tattoos are attractive to many, but what can be intriguing can be dangerous if people are not aware.
Like sex, tattooing can have terrible consequences if the proper precautions are not taken. Disease, such as hepatitis B, and skin conditions with deadly effects can become a problem if care is not taken.
“A person should consider how long the establishment has been there,” said Vicki Gross of Mouse Art in Millington. “Also cleanliness, and licenses must be present.”
If a tattooing business does not offer those basics, then it might be wise not to consider getting a tattoo there.
“Age is a factor, because you don’t want anyone who is 18 years old putting on something that will be a part of you with no experience,” Gross said.
Experience is very important. Gross, who has been practicing the business for 22 years, is noted as being one of the most skillful female tattoo artist in the United States.
“One thing that you have to realize is that, putting any type of adjustments to your body — such as a piercing or tattoo — is that it is a lifetime decision,” said Eddy Hollin of Dave’s Tattoos in Memphis.
Many first-timers who get tattooed are usually very anxious to get it done and do not think to wonder about disease.
So before getting a tattoo on the cheap, think about it. Sure, the cost is less in terms of dollars, but don’t forget the possible cost in health.
Do background checks on the different studios and make sure that you see the studio’s license and that the artist follows procedures. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
But for professional tattoo artists working in licensed studios these days, the problem is less about the person getting the tattoo contracting something nasty and more about the artist catching something from the customers.
“People these days don’t tell you what they have done, if they screw around or what — they just don’t tell you anything,” said Gross.
That is why if you have had a tattoo lately, you might have noticed that the artist wore gloves and everything they worked with was disposable.
“Cross-contamination is the biggest thing,” said Hollin. “A lot of people don’t realize that after the process of getting the tattoo, it makes your skin vulnerable to bacteria.”
Reputable studios can also provide help caring for the tattoo after the procedure is done.
The methods of caring for a new tattoo depend a lot on what studio you go to, but most businesses suggest wearing a bandage immediately after receiving a tattoo. Some also recommend applying warm water and cocoa butter to the tattooed area for three weeks. Others advise an intensive care lotion two times a day for seven days.
