In this generation, there is no arguing that tattoos are among the coolest things; it makes one more popular, more interesting, and it gives you a certain boost in confidence as you go around town sporting it, or even when nobody sees it. Although, there still are negative issues about having tattoos, they are becoming more and more mainstream and it is showing no signs of backing off. No, I am not talking about social issues.



In getting a tattoo, safety should always be vigilantly observed to avoid medical issues. These include preventing diseases such as HIV, AIDS, hepatitis and other diseases that can be acquired through sharing of needles, use of unsterile equipments and sloppy procedures. You can do this by only going to tattoo shops and tattoo artists that are fully licensed. And you, yourself, have to make certain that everything that pierces your skin is new and sterile.

Another thing that could pose a health problem are those large tattoos such as full length dragon tattoos and elaborate Celtic designs. While they can be reproduced on skin in smaller versions, dragon tattoos are much more impressive-looking when done in large sizes, which heal much slower than smaller tattoos. Slower healing means greater risk for infection. And infection is one thing you don't want to have with your new tattoo.

Some people who are either into the art of tattooing or into elaborate tattoos like dragon tattoos, which is a perfect example, prefer to have a full length dragon inked on their body with the tail of the dragon starting from their foot or ankle, coiling its way up ending with its head in an elaborate back piece. Dragon tattoos such as these are done in segments in different sessions to allow gradual healing. Lower foot tattoos are also prone to infections, which is why most tattoo artists are more careful when it comes to foot tattoos.

Getting a tattoo means a needle will be stuck in your skin multiple times, deep enough to make you bleed a little. Yes, it is painful. And if a person with a low pain threshold decides to get large tattoos like dragon tattoos, he could go into shock because of the pain. But pain thresholds vary for different people. Just make sure you are prepared for it mentally and physically.

Before getting a tattoo, it is better if you had your tetanus shots completed, just to be on the safe side. If you have diabetes, known allergies, skin infections, and low immune system, you might want to think twice about getting a tattoo. Also, if you are a keloid-former, it's better not to have the tattoo at all, be it small tattoo or a large one. Either way, you'll only be getting a chunk of scar tissue in the end.

A made up mind is not enough when deciding to get a tattoo. Your decisions must also have the blessings of your doctor. No matter how much you want one if your body's saying no, then maybe in another lifetime if your body decides to permit it, you can have as much ink as you want.