My first tattoo in my 40s
Getting a new tattoo is exciting at whatever point it happens in a person’s life. It is the opportunity to push a new look, develop an identity, or just have a bit of frivolous fun and begin exploring the vast world of tattoo art and design.
As experts in laser tattoo removal we meet people who begin their tattoo journeys at many different points in their lives. We are with these clients when they want to remove their tattoo ink, but often get an insight into their plans for new tattoo designs in the future as well as for cover-ups.
As a novice in the world of tattoos, getting a first piece of ink can be daunting. There are many different tattoo styles, artists, and studios to navigate, as well as inks and skin safety to think about.
If you're considering getting your first tattoo in your 40s or beyond, there are a few important factors to take into account. In this blog, we'll explore what someone over 40 should consider before taking the plunge into the world of tattoos.
The design and research phase
Before getting a first piece of ink, it is important to take the time to research the world of tattoo designs and inks. Seek out the best tattoo studios in London with our guide and browse their portfolios to see if each style of work aligns with what you’d like to get. Always read the reviews and previous experiences of other clients. You might also do well to look for portfolios that showcase clients of a similar age to yourself, suggesting that the artist has a range of experience.
Tattoos are far from permanent with the advances in laser tattoo removal technology, so if you are seeking to get your first tattoo design you needn’t agonise over every single detail. Remember, the process is meant to be enjoyable and can be frivolous.
The location of a first tattoo
Many people overthink the location of a first tattoo and it makes sense. This is the first time you are injecting ink into your skin, and it will potentially stand out more as there are no preexisting tattoos to surround it. Having said that, there is no reason to stress about where the new ink will go.
As we age we also experience changes in how our skin sits on our body. Tattoos that are placed on areas where the skin typically changes significantly over time, for instance, on the face, might end up looking less sharp than those placed on the upper arm, shoulders, or back.
Do not take this as gospel, as every tattoo and body is unique.
Health and safety considerations
Anyone getting a first tattoo should prioritise their health and specifically, the safety of their skin. There are varying levels of regulation over tattoo inks around the world, so the best thing to do is research natural ink pigments and speak to tattoo artists about what tools they’ll be using to create a new design.
Be sure to discuss any pre-existing medical conditions or medications you may be taking with the artist to avoid potential complications.
Healing and aftercare
The healing process for a tattoo can take several weeks, and as you age, your body's healing abilities may be slightly slower. Be prepared to give your tattoo proper aftercare, which includes keeping it clean, moisturised, and protected from the sun. This advice goes for any tattoo on any person of any age and circumstances.
Always follow the instructions provided by your tattoo artist to ensure optimal healing. We say exactly the same things when it comes to removing a tattoo with laser tattoo removal.
Enjoying a new tattoo in your 40s
A new tattoo design can be invigorating in many ways. It can be a source of compliments, a conversation starter, and a marker of our journey through life so far. Why else do people get the names of their loved ones tatted?
It can also be the first of many tattoos. Remember, with laser tattoo removal it is entirely possible to remove a new tattoo design so go boldly into the world of tattoos without fear or apprehension.
