1. Choose what you want carefully. What type of tattoo is it? Portrait, watercolor, cartoon, old-school, etc.

Tattoos are the ultimate bodily commitment made. Once they’re on your skin they stay longer than the man you thought would be your husband. When it comes time for you to decide what you want, understand that a tattoo is a type of art form, which means you have different types to choose from. Take your time making a decision, you have A LOT of options.

2. What’s the real meaning behind your choice?

What does this piece of art mean to you? Is it sentimental? Maybe you decided to dedicate a piece to your grandfather that passed away unexpectedly, or you have recently become a new parent and want to tattoo your new editions feet on to your arm, because why not? How about you want to get some new ink just because you felt like it. Whatever your reasoning is make sure you have a real meaning behind it; whether that reasons involves deep sentimentality, or a quick and fast decision don’t permanently mark yourself with something you’ll regret.

3. Are you getting the tattoo for yourself or for another person?

Lets just remember that when you decide to get your first tattoo, or your 5^th tattoo perhaps, that it will be on YOUR body. No one else is going to feel the needles digging in to their skin, only you are. You will most likely be the one paying for it too, so don’t get a tattoo for someone else’s benefit. Don’t let anyone peer pressure you into getting a tattoo you don’t genuinely want.

4. Where would you go to get tattoos? Research some shops.

The shop that you decide to go to is very important. The tattoo process includes an artist piercing your skin down to the dermis with ink. That’s means a liquid is entering your body and mixing with your blood; if the shop you decide to go to isn’t up to the proper hygienic standards you might catch some type of disease… EW! Be sure the shop is sanitized, the needles are always brand new and in a sterilized bag, and that the shop smells clean. If you see one thing out of place high tail it out of there!

5. Find an artist that suites your needs.

Tattoo artists are ARTISTS first, which means they all have their specialties. Some artists are better at calligraphy than others, some artists do portrait work better than others, and some artists love to do cartooning over anything else. It all depends the artist, so make sure you find an artist that can really do your tattoo justice.

6. Are you ready to commit to the price of a good tattoo?

You get what you pay for with tattoos. If you want a wonderful piece with intricate detail you will have to pay a hefty penny, and if you want to take the shortcut out then your tattoo will show that shortcut. Don’t be stupid, pay the right price for your tattoo.

7. Are you ready to commit to the healing process after getting a tattoo?

Tattoos are basically treated like an open wound afterward. They take anywhere from two and a half weeks to three weeks to properly heal. You have to think ahead and set some time aside to let the tattoo properly heal. If you get a small tattoo, you could probably still go to work. The tattoo can’t be covered and it has to be cleaned at least three times a day. I personally use Noxzema, but every artist has a different preference and will tell you when they finish up their work.

Some careers call for a professional look at all times. If that’s the case, make sure you place your tattoo in an area that you can easily hide, or cover up. Also, take into consideration your pain threshold. If you feel that one area may feel less painful for you than another, go with your gut feeling.

9. Bring a friend with you.

Having moral support the day of the tattoo makes a huge difference in your experience. You might inspire them to get a tattoo themselves.

10. Can you see yourself being happy with that tattoo 10 years down the line?

Tattoos are permanent. Make sure you are happy and wouldn’t mind waking up with the tattoo every day for 10 years.

11. Are you ready to pay for tattoo removal?

If you don’t like your tattoo after a while, fret not, you CAN get rid of it, but it’s a painful and expensive process. Just be happy with what you have.