A TikTok user known as Silk (@silk.tattoos), a 27-year-old aspiring tattoo artist, recently sparked a viral conversation about the important things to consider before getting a tattoo. His video, asking viewers “What’s something you wish you knew about having tattoos BEFORE you started getting tattoos?”, garnered over 7,300 comments, filled with wisdom and regret from the tattooed community.
The Unexpected Realities of Tattoos
Many users highlighted the surprising aspects of living with tattoos. Several people commented on the addictive nature of tattoos, with one user calling it the “most expensive addiction” of their life. Another surprising revelation was the tendency to forget about existing tattoos once they become a part of daily life.
Placement and the Itch Factor
Practical advice dominated the comments section. The overwhelming consensus was that placement is paramount, even more critical than the design itself. Another recurring theme was the often underestimated intensity of itching during the healing process, with one commenter dramatically stating, “The itching [during recovery] is worse than the needle 😭🙏.”
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Finding the Right Artist and Design
Financial planning and artist selection were also key discussion points. Commenters stressed the importance of saving up for a skilled artist rather than opting for the cheapest option. One user advised, “Do not get a tattoo done just because you found someone who can do it for a price you can afford immediately. Save for that expensive artist!”
Furthermore, many encouraged open communication with the artist, urging individuals not to hesitate to request changes to the design. “Don’t be scared to say you don’t like something about the design & want something changed just because you don’t want to be a ‘hassle’ to the tattoo artist. Speak up! That’s part of their job,” one experienced tattoo enthusiast shared.
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Embracing Individuality and Managing Expectations
Finally, commenters emphasized the importance of personal preference and avoiding comparisons. “There will always be someone with better tattoos than you, and there will always be someone with worse tattoos. Don’t compare, just enjoy yours and stay true to your taste,” one wise user wrote. Another practical tip suggested setting your phone background to the desired tattoo design to ensure you’ll enjoy seeing it every day.
Silk himself explained his motivation for creating tattoo-focused content on TikTok stemmed from the lack of resources he had when he first started getting tattooed at 18. He aims to provide informative and educational content, drawing on his personal experiences to help others navigate the often intimidating world of tattoos. A 2023 Pew Research Center poll revealed that 32% of Americans have tattoos, with 22% having more than one, highlighting the relevance and importance of Silk’s message. Of those polled, nearly a quarter expressed regret about at least one of their tattoos, further underscoring the need for careful consideration before getting inked.
