Pros and Cons of Tattoos
There are two sides to every situation and tattooing is no different. On the up side, tattoos present the individual an opportunity to express and emphasize his own self-image and individuality in a very visual and colorful manner. The individual can also use a tattoo to increase his affinity with a specific peer group, or strengthen a bond in a physically permanent manner.
Although great strides have been made in recent times to minimize the risks, the principal negative aspect related to tattooing is the associated health risks. Since tattooing involves the insertion of ink beneath the outer layers of skin, there exists a finite risk of coming into contact with often fatal blood-borne diseases such as various forms hepatitis and HIV. This alone emphasizes the need to use only a reputable and highly sanitary tattoo artist.
Risk of infection remains after application and prior to healing. Artist's usually give clear aftercare instructions that involve regular cleaning and bathing of the tattoo to ensure proper healing.
The permanence of a tattoo should also be considered very strongly when assessing whether or not to acquire a tattoo. This permanence can develop with the passage of time to become a strong negative aspect. In their later years, as their life perspectives change and former passions fade, many express a sense of regret at having a permanent tattoo or about its bodily location. And although removal techniques have improved markedly in recent years, they remain expensive and can involve certain inherent risks particularly with surgical removal. The cost of surgical tattoo removal can be many times the cost of applying the tattoo and depending on size and location of the tattoo can be an involved and protracted prodedure.
Additionally, excessive conspicuous tattooing can make it more difficult to secure gainful employment with many companies, particularly those in the service sector, not wanting workers to openly display tattoos in the presence of clients.