Why do tattoos have such a bad reputation? I have heard so many false accusations against tattoos and the process of getting them, and I think that it is absolutely ridiculous. I am not trying to change anyone’s personal opinions, but I am trying to help those who oppose see from a different perspective. It’s only ink, right? So what’s the big deal? Here are some of the most popular arguments.
1. Tattoos are unhealthy and dangerous.
For a tattoo artist to open shop, they must have all the requirements. They have to compile a portfolio, complete an apprenticeship, and take certain courses to obtain a license. They are taught how to properly clean all of their equipment, and they will directly explain to you how to take care of your new ink until it is fully healed. Yes, there is a chance of infection, but that is why you must be willing to clean and protect your work of art.
2. You won’t be able to find a decent job.
It is true that some people will still judge you no matter what because that is the type of person they are. However, if you have a degree or any other certification that states you are eligible for a career then who are they to tell you that you aren’t qualified? People with tattoos are still people. They can go to college like any other person, and they need some source of income to pay bills just like everyone else. Having tattoos does not determine your level of intelligence, nor your willingness to work.
3. You can’t change your mind later.
In the past, tattoos were 100 percent permanent. Nowadays, though, with such great advancements in technology, tattoo removal has become more popular. Just like any procedure, it costs money and has it’s own risks, but the results speak for themselves.
4. Tattoos are a waste of money.
Yes, tattoos can be pricey depending on the size, use of ink (especially when using multiple colors) and the amount of time it takes to complete the piece. The way I look at it, some people spend their extra money on tattoos, and some people spend it on more clothes, makeup, the latest gadgets, even alcohol, and drugs. People will always want to spend their money, when it’s there to spend. How you want to spend it depends on you.
5. People with tattoos don’t make good parents.
Both of my parents have tattoos, and I think I came out just fine. I don’t see how decorating your body affects your parenting skills. Those two factors have no direct affiliation, meaning there has been no study that found a correlation between the two. How does physical appearance affect something like that? That’s almost like saying you can’t be a good parent if you’re overweight.
6. People with tattoos don’t believe in God (or any faith in general).
Some people get tattoos to be able to have a permanent representation of their faith. They want to mark their body and show everyone what they believe in. I have met people that said they love when others ask about their religious tattoos because they have the opportunity to share their faith and even reach out to them. Some people look at it as contradictory, but most would agree that these tattoos can act as a teaching opportunity.
7. You’re just begging for attention.
This tattoo, for example, is tiny and will be covered by most shirts. You can’t bring attention to something that can’t be seen. Many people get smaller tattoos for personal reasons. It doesn’t matter who sees it because it’s not for anyone else’s happiness but your own. Many of these are used to remember someone or something.
8. Tattoos are for criminals.
I’m just going to leave this one to stand for itself. I think this myth is one of the most ridiculous.
9. It will be harder for you to find love.
This is another misconception that plays off of the stereotype of physical appearance, and people have been relaying this for years. It’s what’s on the inside that counts! The beautiful artwork is just a plus sometimes.
10. You are disrespecting your body.
Your body is your temple. You should be able to decorate it how you want. In my case, I use my body to tell my story. Each of my tattoos is a symbol to represent different parts of my life. When people look at me and see my tattoos, I want them to be curious. I want people to see how much I have been through and how much I have grown in the process. I am an artist. I view my body as a blank canvas, and I use body art to express who I am. Don’t be afraid to show the world who you are.
