Never pick a tattoo off the wall. Whatever tattoo you get will be with you for a looong time – most likely forever. So it is of the utmost importance that you get a tattoo that truly means something to you. This doesn’t mean that every tattoo you get must commemorate a deceased relative. Your tattoo can still be funny, girly, or ironic – as long as it has special meaning to you. If you spontaneously walk into a tattoo parlor, pick a design off the wall and get it done right then and there, chances are you will be sick of it about as quick as you made the decision to get one!

Be careful about placement.  When you think about where your tattoo is going to be placed, you have to think about what your opinion will be on the placement 10, 20, 30, even 50 years from now! Try to avoid places that will start to sag or expand with age and make sure the tattoo can be easily covered with clothing if necessary. 

Shop around for an experienced artist. Tattoo artists have portfolios that they are willing to show you in order to showcase their work; so take advantage of this and shop around! This is especially important if you are having a tattoo created especially for you. First make sure that your artist is good; then make sure your artist’s design aesthetic matches yours. Also of utmost importance, is making sure your tattoo artist/parlor is upholding the highest health standards for your personal safety. Being selective in the artist you pick will benefit you in the long run!

Cost should not be THE deciding factor. When you are getting something that will potentially be on your body for the rest of your life, do not be cheap! Make sure you are going to a high quality parlor with an experienced artist, even if that means paying more.

Do not neglect the aftercare of the tattoo. Once you put the time into planning for a tattoo and spending the money to do it, you need to make sure that you are also diligent about tattoo aftercare. To avoid infection, you must avoid harsh conditions, keep the area clean and moisturized, and allow it to heal. 

While we at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta are happy to offer you our laser tattoo removal services if necessary, we would rather you be happy with your tattoo decision the first time, instead of going through the removal process. Keeping some of these tattoo tips in mind, might help you avoid the urge to remove it in the future. If for any reason you already have a tattoo that you wish to be removed, Dermatology Associates of Atlanta has the largest laser center in the southeast, with the technology to remove any color or size tattoo.  Contact DAA today if you have any additional questions.