Tattooing processes have varied over the centuries, and new techniques are frequently introduced.
Early tattoo artists often rubbed ink into scratched skin while some pricked ink through skin layers with sharpened bones. Other artists made skin punctures and used colored thread to push color into the deeper layers. Even today, some basement or jailhouse tattooists simply push pen ink through the skin to create low tech etchings or words.
Current tattoo artists typically rely on electric machines that use a sterilized needle attached to an ink tube to create body art. The needle moves in and out pushing the ink about 1/8 of an inch into the skin. The tattoo pattern is embedded in the deeper dermal layer, since the uppermost layer of skin (epidermis) sheds and would not hold a permanent pattern.
Some artists rub on a pattern before tattooing and basically follow the lines while others freehand. If a rub on is used, it usually takes two or three days to disappear completely.
Thinking About a Tattoo
Tattoos are forever (or at least costly and painful to have removed), so do not guzzle a few cold ones and get a tattoo on a whim or a dare.
Frankly, most quality tattoo parlours will not tattoo patrons obviously inebriated or drugged up. Other artists will sit down and discuss the process and suggest scheduling an appointment for a later date to give some time for decision making.
If you really hate your tattoo, that won’t be good for business. The tattoo artist should make an effort to ensure that you’ll be happy with your decision to go under the ink gun.
In some cases, tattooing is not recommended. If you are prone to getting keloids which is an overgrowth of scar tissue when injured, then getting a tattoo is just asking for trouble. Likewise, individuals with compromised immune systems (AIDS, MS, lupus patients to name a few), heart disease, diabetes, skin conditions, or are pregnant, check with a doctor before considering getting tattooed.
It’s also important to be up-to-date on immunizations before getting a tattoo. Check your shot records and be sure that both hepatitis and tetanus shots are current.