We all have our opinions about tattoos. Personally, I think they're amazing, and this is why I acquired one in March. I learned a lot of things after I got tatted up.
Yes, they hurt.
Let me elaborate. We all know that having a bunch of needles stabbed into you over and over is going to hurt. But I had thought it would hurt somewhat like a shot, since it was a needle depositing things into your skin. I was wrong. It stung and burned and didn't feel anything like what a shot does.
They're easy to hide.
Granted, when it's on your face that could prove problematic. Mine was on my inner bicep, and proved quite easy to cover up with sleeves. Makeup doesn't do so well against black lines as it does blemishes, however, so if you want to cover it, put it somewhere were clothing can hide it.
Professionalism is morphing.
Sure, I couldn't be a lawyer with the tattoo on the top of my hand, but as an aspiring scientist, no one in my field really cares if you have tattoos if they're not in an obnoxious place. Lab coats cover them up, and after being in school from 7-10 years (counting undergrad), your bosses trust you know what you're doing and don't care if there's some artwork on your skin.
They all have meaning.
At least, the really, really good ones do. They're not the drunken night out and "I got this funky design on my side to show for it." A lot people with tattoos could go on and on about the meanings behind each piece on their skin.
Care. Is. Key.
You can do everything right, using aquaphor just as long as instructed then switch to lotion and keep it clean. Then an allergic reaction could swing in and mess things up.
But, if you do everything right, it should heal up perfectly and be great for the rest of your life.
Mom & Dad
While you don't need their permission to get a tattoo, they might react in very different ways. One may accept it and one may think it was the worst decision of your life. Eventually, they will handle it and be happy for you.
Your tattoo is for you.
Sure it is visible to everyone, but at the end of the day a tattoo is on your body, not theirs. It holds meaning to you and the only person's opinion that really matters is your own.
