Suddenly Tattooed: Summer skin, regret, and body image.

[@tabagithiga]

Honestly, I feel absolutely the opposite about my tattoos. In my entire life I've never felt comfortable in shorts and now that I'm tattooed I step outside in shorts and feel fabulous. I think tattoos are becoming less taboo and I think that is a great thing. I can't wait until we are all 80 and full of tattoos and no one bats an eye at it.

[@S71597]

tabagithiga same. Never wanted to cover up my tattoos, ever

[@ShyDragoness]

tabagithiga I'm getting a tattoo on my foot in june and I've bought like 19 pairs of sandals so i never have to not see it xD

[@kaitlynrenee380]

Yeah this is exactly how I feel. My tattoos have made me love my body and want to show it more. I look in the mirror and smile now. ✨

[@TemeryN]

I'm half and half with this. On one hand I too love to show my tattoo's but on the other hand I also love to have my little secrets (hidden tat's that only come out when I want to show them) =)

[@thewanderingwolf7116]

I agree with you. I started a leg sleeve and I feel like the same person whether I am covering it up or not. Having leg tattoos has made me more comfortable with myself than I have ever been.

[@cheercaptain26]

I can't believe this was all one take; you're an incredible speaker. I love the inclusion of the clips of your full body of tattoos. Very impactful

[@adnerbgirlmakeup8809]

Payton Morse yes! I think about how qcknd barely or has Edits in her videos, especially compared to other youtubers. It's crazy!!

[@edotdavis]

I've never felt regret about my tattoos. Living in New Zealand where tattoos are everywhere, including full face tattoos, it makes it easy. Its very accepted here. It is a part of Maori culture. I recently got my entire finger tattooed with a pattern and when it was fresh and mega black it did startle people. But being 30 and having been tattooed for 12+ years, I feel very confident and comfortable with myself and the decisions Ive made about my body. I am an observer and if anything I like being able to see how different people react to my tattoos, whether its good or bad or simply curious. They have a right to wonder and I have a right to either engage or not. Love you qcknd!!

[@kirstycat]

Massive yes to your comment.

[@SenoraDroolcup]

Girl I am so happy you made this video this week, this couldn't have come at a better time for me. I only have one tattoo right now, a floral quarter sleeve/shoulder piece. I've had it for almost 3 years and I still experience the things you talk about in this video - that "surprise"/interruption when you take your sweater off at night and you're like "holy shit, there's a THING on my skin that I put there that's never coming off." Being an anxiety sufferer this feeling REALLY affects me, and affected me right after I got my tattoo (like, as I was leaving the shop right after), to the point where I had to go to therapy for it because it was giving me actual panic attacks every day. I loved the tattoo but I was freaked out by the change to my body, that feeling of "I'll never have my arm back, it'll never be the same again". Now 3 years later I still have bouts of this, and I'm in the midst of a bad one now, so I'm really glad you posted this video and I'm glad to know that it's normal to feel this way. This feeling is honestly what has kept me from getting more tattoos - I love the art and the culture and even the process of designing and getting the tattoo. I follow tons of artists on IG and have loads of ideas for future tattoos. And I identify with my current tattoo and love how it looks with my clothing and how it completes the complete "picture" of how I want to present myself in the world. But that fear of permanent change to my body, and the "I'll never have my blank body back again", really fucks me up and it's kept me from getting more ink. Like you said, it's not really REGRET, for me I think it's FEAR OF regret. Like, people's script of "oh you'll regret that someday" has subconsciously taken root and I'm constantly waiting for The Regret™ to set in and for the moment to come where I hate my tattoo so much that I can't live with it anymore. Every time I get undressed and see it I have the fleeting thought of "is this going to be The Time When It Happens™, when The Regret™ happens? Do I regret this?" and by constantly thinking about IF I regret it or WHEN I'll regret it, I'm constantly worried about it, and it makes me nervous to see it because think if I never look at it then The Regret can never happen (out of sight, out of mind?). But on the other hand, I LOVE it and I love seeing it and I love how I look with it. So ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ ???? I don't know the answer to this predicament. Anyway this comment is a novel and probably not interesting but I've needed to get this off my chest to someone who might understand. Thank you for making this video

[@meganrigsby4037]

SenoraDroolcup I have 5 tattoos (about halfway through building a traditional sleeve) and most of them have no meaning to me so I totally agree with your experience. The funny thing is that people think you'll regret beautiful images more than quotes, etc. that mean something to you, but I personally could see people regretting that more because you'll be sick of a quote faster than a beautiful image. So I wouldn't worry too much about regretting your tattoo if it's beautiful to you!

[@Ambuttx]

SenoraDroolcup I get that same feeling of anxiety after getting a tattoo and getting really anxious about having them sometimes. I totally know what you mean

[@LauraElizabeth]

I completely feel this, thank you so much for writing this

[@Whitepillrightpill]

I thought I was the only one who ever had feelings like this.. but this comment as well as this video really make me feel less alone. Thank you so much ❤ I just got my first significant tattoo and I do plan to get many more, but this is sometimes in the back of my head. Such a weird thing!

[@isabellastrachan2375]

oh my gosh this is me to a T, thank you for writing this

[@heywheresjade]

It's kinda like when you're wearing a matching underwear set and you feel really good and confident in your day but no one has to see it or know. But you know and you feel good

[@karlrherderich]

No, it's like wearing the same shirt for the rest of your life.

[@heywheresjade]

@@karlrherderich I commented this 3 years ago I have no idea what this video was even about

[@lacyw.232]

The thing I don't like the most is the over sexualization of my body JUST for the fact I am tattooed. In the colder months it happens way less, then warm weather comes around and I get bombarded with sexual comments.

[@Victoriascarn]

ugh i know what you mean, i personally dont have many tattoos, but i do have a few piercings, and have a more "alternative" hairstyle. And just with that its like everyone in the world thinks im "into crazy sex things" ugh its awful. :c and to add i live in a place where everyone is little clones, and they are all very closeminded, so as soon your a little different people get wierd with you

[@xosecox12]

cloudsroll w YES. A guy I worked with sexually harassed me because of it. He kept saying I must like BDSM type stuff if I had tattoos and piercings and would make sexual comments about me liking pain. I get tattoos because it's art. I don't like the painful aspect of it. I hate that part. I like how it turns out though. I just don't get it. Do we accuse people who get waxed of having fetishes because they must love pain if they do it? No. We acknowledge that they do it for maintenance and don't like the pain. I don't like the pain but I love how my body looks after when I get a tattoo. That guy made me so uncomfortable and so many other guys at work would hit on me under the assumption I was into "weird things." Not that there's anything wrong with it because to each their own and I want people to embrace their sexuality but I just don't like that people make assumptions about someone's private life based on their appearance or think it's okay to harass someone with tattoos like they're asking for it.

[@lacyw.232]

Exactly. I live in a pretty small mountain town and work customer service night shift at a 24 hour business. And I have to deal with people like this almost daily. I used to be somewhat nice about it and now I just flat out tell them it's not ok lol the looks on their faces I swear. Excuse me for being an introvert who doesn't do well with harassment in any form.

[@Victoriascarn]

xosecox12 Omg, i had the same experience, except i was a sophomore in highschool and my TEACHER,literally spent an entire class period lecturing me on how because i have a septum piercring i must be into bdsm and bondage.(which is something i had no idea about at the time), whilst embarrassing in front of the class. Completely uncalled for, disgusting things, thought up by perverted guys. Needless to say, i dropped that class fast as hell.

[@Victoriascarn]

cloudsroll w Yup, and its always the men who oversexualize it, i personally have never had an experience where another women sexualized my piercings. I truly feel its just the perverted men.

[@LexiSylverne]

This is so interesting, the whole idea of being "reintroduced" to your skin is something I can relate to soooo much. As someone who struggled with self-harm for years and it's one of those things that every time I see my scars it's like I'm seeing them for my first time and I have to learn how to cope with the fact that this is my body and it's unique because I have these scars, but at the same time I find this strange sense of empowerment from being able to now take complete ownership of my body and the things on it, if that makes sense? Quality vid tho 10/10

[@TheMorganKylea]

Lexi Sylverne I was just having this conversation. My left arm has a pretty decent amount of scars, but I rarely notice them and when I do I've grown to really love them in their own way. But it's not something I think about a lot until it's pointed out to me or the lighting changes and I can see them more distinctly.

[@Duh_Hamburglar]

Same. left arm has scars top to bottom from self harm. I want to cover them and put something colorful and cool to look at, got my first one 2 weeks ago and I do not regret it. Even though my folks are opposed and hate it, ultimately it's my own body, I can do what i want to it.

[@theanswerisowl]

Morgan Kylea i feel the exact same way about mine! that's so cool to hear, because never came across this kind of mindset before, mostly people being ashamed

[@sirendeatholdaccount]

I love how your space has come together. It is a struggle and a battle but having a place to call your own and cultivating that space is an amazing feeling! So proud of you, Qcknd!

[@Cat-uh4md]

the shots of you in the shorts and tank top were gorgeous and edited in perfectly. thank you for talking about this with so much grace and intelligence (as usual), this was such an interesting video

[@libbyg7781]

Oh this is exactly the topic I needed and I didn't even know it ❤️

[@Changeling1844]

I believe that thinking of yourself as a representative for tattooed people is only hurting you. For example when someone wanting to talk about your tattoos stops you on the street and youre running late, you feel you have to be nice to represent the tattooed community in a positive light. Its not your responsibility to represent others hun, you can only represent yourself. And once you stop seeing yourself as a collective, youll realise its much easier to be unapologetically yourself. I hope that resonates with anyone reading 🙂

[@Krystieraspberries]

that cleavage/tattoo thought is sooo spot on and easily relatable to non tattooed people. yes.

[@jaygauthier87]

so many videos lately! I'm here for this

[@hindergrlee]

I definitely want the tattoo life to be normalized. It's always nice to see someone's face light up when they see my legs but the anxiety that comes with the possible negativity of another reaction is just exhausting. Thanks for always being you qcknd

[@sabrinaprestia7853]

I only have two tattoos, but i still have to deal with unwanted attention when at extended family gatherings. Everyone in my family has seen my tattoos multiple times, but without fail at least one person will push my t-shirt sleeve up, touch one of my tattoos and ask 'what does that mean?'. I try to be nice and explain, but each time I do I get a response along the lines of 'oh, whatever you say' or 'I don't really get it' or 'why would you put that on your body'. Sometimes they just look at me with a confused face, or laugh. It's so frustrating because other people in my family have tattoos, but they are all men. They don't experience this kind of treatment, and never do they come to my defense. Their opinion of me doesn't effect how I see myself, but knowing that they secretly judge me for my choices makes every gathering uncomfortable.

[@meganrigsby4037]

Sabrina Prestia This was me at Christmas a few months ago. The second I took off my cardigan, thinking my "liberal" family wouldn't care (most of them had also seen my tattoos before), my two uncles called me from another room and demanded to see my tattoos. They didn't compliment them or anything, just stared at them in confusion. I've decided to wear long sleeves to all family functions at this point.

[@sabrinaprestia7853]

I'm the liberal black sheep in my family of conservatives, so it's good to know even liberal families act like this too! xx

[@Lexandra23]

Sabrina Prestia guys im conservative but im with all you all the way 😂 it sucks

[@Gaia_95]

Megan Rigsby I don't explain anything to my family. It's not your business. When they ask I tell them it's personal and keep going. I'm not for display so I don't show them when they ask or demand. I just say no and keep going. Don't give them power over u.

[@nicooz6168]

I love this video so much. It feels so personal and those are my favorite kind. I've had this feeling a lot lately, especially since I'm personally in an environment where I can't really show my tattoos and I've been getting a new one like every few months. At the end of the day when I'm alone in my room it's almost startling to remember that I am a tattooed person. However I've come to cherish this feeling of having hidden tattoos. It's like my public self and my private self. It feels like a special event when I get to go out and show off the artwork I've collected.

[@PATIENT498]

loving the look of the apartment !!!

[@MorganZoso]

I totally feel you on this subject. I love my tattoos, but they are personal to me, and often I find myself wearing long sleeves to work and family parties just to avoid that "interruption" its definitely and interesting sensation. As I finish my sleeve, its interesting how each new tattoo lends itself to this feeling again. loved this subject! xoxo

[@anburnell]

Same here with the covering up. I think I've convinced everyone I know that I am "always cold" so I don't look like a crazy person when I wear a cardigan in the middle of summer.

[@sarahtur6936]

yaaaaaaaay I smiled so hard at that notification! always looking forward to your videos!

[@samanthawhittick6604]

i feel this 100%. i love my tattoos and they make me feel beautiful and confident but the confidence i have wearing shorts with my tattoos visible isn't there from the moment spring begins, the confidence builds up over the spring/summer months and then i have to become confident all over again the next time around. people are always saying i have dyed hair/tattoos to stand out/get attention. why can't people believe these are things we do not for anyone else, but for ourselves? loved this video and how happy you seem in your new place.

[@ohmygoodlett1402]

Does anyone else like Qcknd's videos before you even watch them?

[@melstarr90]

YES OMG

[@phant0m0th_]

ohmygoodlett lol same. I just know the title and know I'll like the content she puts out. I don't even know what she's going to say but it doesn't matter because she always had good insight on someone who's got lots of tattoos

[@pisforpearl]

Every one of my tattoos has a story, and everyone who might have been judgmental is dead and gone. Thanks to your channel I have grown to love visible tattoos. I got my first foot tattoo last month.(A logo from a kids's show from the 90's.) before that my 4th tattoo was a Hunger Games District 4 logo on my lower ankle so i could show it off- because it represented the type of leader and friend I wanted to be. Tattoos are not impulse purchases, they are treasures.

[@TheMonSharie]

I love my tattoos but I've definitely looked at them and had a bit of anxiety or like a mini feeling of claustrophobia within my body. Kind of feeling like 'oh man these are really there' 'they will always be'...

[@ultraviolet3971]

TheMonSharie I feel completely comfortable with my tattoos when I’m not focusing on them and honestly forget they are they but when I do have that moment of looking at them and being like oh shit that’s when I get the claustrophobic feeling but it only happens when I fixate on the idea

[@DanielFlores-fo1ee]

It's cause they're gross

[@jessybarger991]

THE ICE CREAM SANDWICH PILLOW IN THE BACKGROUUUND!!!

[@hyrulesmayor7336]

I'm always so happy to be notified when you upload. 🖤

[@whatthefox8151]

You seem so much more at peace. I'm so happy for you! xo

[@tenaciousdestiny]

I live in WA, and I feel like on the west coast you don't get as many bad "interruptions" from what it sounds like you get. I would definitely agree it gets SUPER annoying because people want my life story from the tattoo, but mostly the people I interact with are genuinely curious and appreciate body art,even if they don't have any. I've had old ladies tell me they wish they were young again so they could get tattoos. I tell them you're never too old 😎

[@TheAcenightcreeper]

I think the biggest regret a person can have is living their life according to how others think they should and not having complete ownership of your body. I would rather regret one or two tattoos then be 70 years old and thinking about how I never got something I really wanted...now THAT IS REGRET. Regret is not having great stories to tell your kids or grandkids when they ask you about your tattoos, and you can tell them about how you traveled around the world for the first time meeting amazing artists and different cultures and people, that is real, true, deep non reversible regret. All tattoos are reversible and removable and the technology will only keep getting better and better, you have to remember that. What is not reversible is living your entire life and being 80 years old and not having that experience, you cannot reverse that, you cannot rewind time. I waited till I was almost 40 to get my first tattoo and my biggest regret is not getting that additional 22 years to live with tattoos and already having older skin when I first started. I may have that new tattoo regret where you wish you tweaked something for a few days after a new tattoo, but I WILL NEVER REGRET GETTING A TATTOO BECAUSE OF WHAT OTHERS MAY THINK. I cannot wait to get old and look like those old guys with American traditional full torsos that just look so good...

[@HeatherBronge]

I truly love when you talk about this topic and how to deal with the public and the way heavily tattooed people are viewed and interacted with. I constantly go through it, working in a coffee shop/ bar and growing older. It is really freeing to hear you feel the way you feel about the subject, it clears a path for me to think about it from a new angle. Very blesst for this conversation. ❤

[@wildcosmiacollective]

I love this topic. I'm "heavily tattooed." and I don't regret my tattoos, but they are so personal even though my sleeves are flowers and butterflies. I realized that I like to show my tattoos in segments. when warmer weather comes around I dread showing them to the world because I don't want the attention. negative or positive. I don't want to feel like a commodity.

[@wildcosmiacollective]

I am also curious if you have a lot of friends who are heavily tattooed. I often feel like I feel the way I do because I don't have any real life friends who are AS tattooed as I am. I think that's why I love social media and your videos because I find comfort in knowing that other women exist who are like me. ❤ I wish there were at least slightly more heavily tattooed people where I am. when I lived in California tattooed people were a dime a dozen.

[@Helinacoustic]

I could listen to you talk all day! You have a really calming personality and you speak very eloquently and honestly. Thank you for these videos and this community you've created.

[@serenitymoon4432]

the comparison of "regrettable" tattoos to scars with a memorable backstory makes so much sense to me! as a non-tattooed person watching tattoo videos I understand why "bad" tattoos can mean so much to a person even if they know the tattoo sucks, but that metaphor really solidified that understanding. I think that's a great way to explain to others who think you'll regret that tattoo that you likely won't, because it's not just about the tattoo, it's a memory of that time of your life

[@Shnouk13]

Blown away by this video. It explained why I'm a bit weary of the upcoming summer (a new tattoo on my shoulder will be visible, the other one I've managed to hide for almost 2 years). Getting tattoos was extremely personal and empowering for me. Like you, it helped me get more comfortable in my own skin. I have no desire to explain or justify my tattoos. I even bought a new bathing suit last year to cover up my own tattoo. It's not a "shame" or regret thing , it's a "I want to protect this precious thing I did for myself". It also made me understand why I had been reluctant to get a tattoo to cover a scar I got on my arm. I know it will be visible, and reactions from others will be unavoidable. This particular video made me feel ok about choosing to be tattoed mainly on one side of the body. Everybody I know talks about symetry, but I don't care about that. This is my favourite video of yours so far. Talk heavy videos are good.

[@idontcare6669]

I understand what you mean. I just recently got my half sleeve and have been receiving a lot of attention that I never thought I would get. People get very invasive. I had a stranger just recently that went up to me touching my arm and said "I love your tattoo! I'm going to Take a picture!" I felt uncomfortable having someone take a picture of it especially without consent. I said, "No I'm sorry." She rolled her eyes and I'm pretty sure she took it anyway without me knowing. It's unwanted attention. I love my tattoo but hate people being so invasive when it comes to it.

[@raeannabelle6595]

Leslieee G holy shit that sounds really annoying to deal with :/ people need to keep their hands to themselves

[@yuna_bean]

I am living for that scarf, so cute!

[@MissVanilla14a2]

I really have to say I love hearing you talk about your personal experiences and feelings around tattoos. I love that you don't see everything through rose colored lenses. I think we expect tattooed people to enjoy the pain of being tattooed, to not be emotionally affected by body modification discrimination in their environments, to always be okay with their tattoos and never regret or be shocked by them, to love their bodies and the way they change and look throughout the seasons in our lives. Hopefully that all makes sense. One thing I promised myself before I got tattooed was to love my body before I got it, that's something I feel like I accomplished and it makes seeing it everyday was less abrasive or shocking, I feel like. Permanent modifications also have always just appealed to me as a person.

[@kittycatrat98]

Qcknd! Your channel means so much to me as I begin the journey of becoming a tattooed person. About a month ago, I got my first really big, detailed tattoo. Ever since I got that large, colorful thigh piece, I've had upwards of 5 strangers a day stopping me to ask questions or just to compliment it, and it really is a jarring experience. I've always been a quiet, reserved person...so to have complete and total strangers approaching me every day, multiple times a day is just shocking. It's not a negative feeling, but like you said, it's sort of an interruption. This video helped me to realize that I'm not alone in the way I feel, and I'm just really thankful for your Tattoo Talk Tuesday series.

[@thehandoftheartist6536]

I'm so glad that you spoke about this! I'm only 21 but I've already got quite a few pieces and this is definitely an issue that I've been having. Like, not so much regret but trying to familiarise myself with my skin being so different now! I'm also very happy to see that it's not just me that feels this way.

[@kallenfons9564]

I love all the positivity in the comments 😊

[@user-hv8ch9vg2z]

I started getting tattooed last year in the summer and I've literally just had my first bout of this after wearing a skirt without tights for the first time last week. Tried putting it into words for my friends w/o tattoos and they didn't get it. Your apartment is looking lovely by the way and the video was put together so well :)

[@ALifeToSave]

I love how raw, open and honest you are in this Video

[@OliverHatched]

I'm usually not this early for Qcknd's videos. 😍 Uploaded four minutes ago. *hype hype hype*

[@OliverHatched]

I was here so early that 1080p wasn't available yet holy bejezus.

[@krippysuecreates]

Sarah Acree lol

[@sarahbroskin7916]

Every single thing you said was so true, from spring meaning people begin approaching you to the concept of regret and even being reintroduced to your skin every time you undress. ALL OF IT! I've experienced these mixed feelings and its such a comfort to hear someone else with tattoos say the same thing. I would not change my tattoos given the chance, nor will I ever regret any of them as they are all so person. However, I wish non tattooed people would respect my space a bit more. I've found that people in Philly really want to talk about tattoos and approach me any chance they get. Also, I just realized we both have yellow flowers on our wrists in just about the same spot. Mine peaks out no matter what I wear. Such a great video! :]

[@AlaskaYoung27]

I never reply to videos but I'm so glad you posted this video, it's exactly what I've been feeling. After not getting tattooed for three years and then getting two large tattoos on my arms this month, I do find myself "suddenly tattooed." Everyone that has come into work when my sleeve was rolled up said something to me about them this weekend, and it made me realize that this is what life is going to be like from now on. People will look at me differently, and I am tempted to hide my tattoos bc I did get them as a personal experience and expression of myself. I'm glad I'm not alone! :)

[@brittanyc3282]

the tattoos aren't interrupting your life, it's other people's preoccupation with your tattoos instead of you as a person. Nontattooed people seriously need to get over it imo, stamps on other people's skin does not affect them.

[@emmmajo4026]

this video is such a comfort to me. I got tattooed at a young age and am completely in love with the piece, but it almost seems like peer pressure that I should at some point "regret" my tattoo. It made it all the harder when one day one of my teachers who I respect a lot and who I thought had a lot of respect for me saw my new tattoo, looked me dead in the face, and in front of a whole class of people said "call me when your 30 and tell me how you feel about that". Ever since then I have always felt guilty showing my tattoo around teachers or peoples parents, not because I regret my tattoo, but because its hurtful to have people you respect ridicule you and not show respect back. I have to admit though, this video really helps instill some confidence in me that my tattoos are a part of who I am both literally and figuratively and people can either take it or leave it. Please keep doing what you are doing and I love you so much

[@Kskd-cl]

this is one of my favorite episodes so far, thank you qcknd

[@OliviaKathryn]

watching this video and reading the comments has been SO helpful for me. I got my first tattoo in early February and its on the side of my forearm (visible in most clothes). I am a generally anxious person but I did not expect to react the way I did so strongly. LITERALLY on my way home from the shop I started freaking out and thinking "what have I done?? this is permanent !! I can never get rid of it!!". It was frustrating too because I wanted this tattoo for YEARS and the tattoo itself is gorgeous! I couldn't fall asleep that night because I felt like I was going to vibrate right out of my skin. The next morning I couldn't eat or even do make-up because my hands were shaking so much. I kept avoiding looking at the tattoo (it's in a place where if I'm looking down at my arm I don't see it but if i hold my arm up I can). I finally just sat down and forced myself to look at it and thought "its so pretty what the heck and it's meaning is so important to me I love it" and was able to calm myself back down. Anyway. Don't know why I felt the need to write an essay just to lead up to this one point: when I get tattoo anxiety it helps for me to focus on what it means and to think of it as a part of me and not an "addition".

[@ceciliabenevidescrespi7216]

you're moving and you still deliver a great ttt girl you're amazing thank you so much

[@Breezantine]

Putting shorts on again for the warm weather is like reliving the first time I experienced looking at myself in the mirror and finding that there was not a single angle I could view myself at that I couldn't see a tattoo. It can be jarring, I love my body more with the tattoos I have chosen to adorn it with, but realizing how much skin I've covered can be overwhelming. Thank you for the lovely video Qcknd.

[@dianneraneri9344]

So happy you now have your own space to create content. You look so happy and relaxed! I just wanted to say that in my experience as a tattooed person, I do not let others in my work environment know that I have them. I work in a corporate environment and feel that showing tattoos is definitely frowned upon. As a matter of fact, because of that I didn't get a wrist tattoo that I wanted. People do judge and sometimes have negative feelings about tattoos. I don't understand that but I have to deal with it. Also, I live in Florida where tattoos can live freely and not have to be covered up unless you want them to be. Love these discussions! ❤️

[@beanchan583]

I vote for the acceptance of tattoos and tattooed people. Thank you for your channel, Ive been following for like 2 years now. The change in you surroundings is totally showing on you and youre glowing. Thanks for being you @Qcknd

[@SeriouslyCreative]

Oh my gosh i thought i was the only one who felt like this. I am planning on way more visible tattoos but because i am a generally awkward person anyway i like the fact i can hide them when i want so as not to draw extra attention to myself. Thank you for always sharing your knowledge and wisdom.

[@larahassan9991]

Also, I am always in awe of how eloquent you are Qcknd! Your videos and the questions you ask are really intricate and thought provoking! I really admire your creative vision and self expression.

[@kendrahouck7797]

This was such a good episode and talks about a topic I don't think people want to talk about sometimes. At 20, now making an appointment to start my first thigh piece, I honestly really appreciated this. Honestly, it seems alluring for tattoos to stay taboo but acceptance is always a nice thing because then you get to live your life without worry of what they'll do for things like jobs. But, I feel like it still being taboo really helps people who love the art find each other and really helps those people create a bond because of this unique interest they share that a lot of other people don't understand. Idk. That question was really interesting.

[@hopeaaron2027]

I love her. Who else wants to just give her a hug 😊❤️🤗

[@davidboden5791]

Me she's beautiful

[@oceankudla382]

I feel you girl! Tattoos have made me love my body more and feel confident. I recently moved to a place with weather and am going to have the experience of seeing my body more after the winter months. Every time before I get dressed for the day I am reintroduced to my tattoos again. It's strange and fun at the same time. Tattoos interrupt life no matter where I am but I always try to put a positive spin on it

[@a_weak_ago]

I still do the picture thing to this day with a polaroid. I love documenting change. If I get a new piercing, a hair cut, and specifically a new tattoo, I love having that before and after. It feels like... wiping off makeup for me; but reversed because the wiping "off" is of my clean skin and underneath, my real skin feels like the newly tatted area. Every time I get a new tattoo I feel like Im uncovering something deeper. Love your videos hon

[@jenniferlevesque681]

this has got to be your best tattoo talk Tuesday yet!!! I got you 100%. everything you said is so true, I sometimes don't like to share or talk to others about my tattoos because sometimes I almost forget I have them so I can experience them all over again, and I'm totally cool to answer questions people have, especially at the pool where they are most visible, but I didn't get them to show them off, I got them for me. also, love the new video setup, glad to see things coming together for you!!!

[@Sil3ntWatch3r]

This is wonderful!!! I emailed it to my parents so they understand why I complain so much during the warm months with all the stares I get.

[@emergensee1]

As I get more and more tattoos, this is something I think about often. This never really occurred to me from this perspective until I watched your videos on it. I think it's interesting to see how differently people respond to my tattoos, hair or piercings. I guess I've stood out in a crowd for so long that I expect it and just go about my day anyway. I don't mind dodging people if I don't have time to talk to them, I don't mind standing out, even if I wouldnt prefer to.

[@ambergaragiola3961]

same. im not heavily tattooed, but I have very vivid ones LOL. I've always had a love for piercings (prob bc they're shiny) and they're way less permanent. I have the same feeling when I realized I have tattoos after a cold winter hah

[@lauren2971]

It's so crazy all of what you've said here is ABSOLUTELY what I've been relating to this past month! thanks for these videos! helps me not feel so alienated! loving the new bright and spacious background, your TV stand and table were made to be a pair!

[@kaylic4445]

You look so comfortable here and happy. When you gave some detail of what was going on with you I totally got it. . I dealt with a very similar situation and totally felt/feel for you. I hope things are going well in your new place. You're beautiful. Sending so much love and positivity.

[@MsKay2015]

I am so glad that I stumbled across your channel. I am going into nursing school, and I am getting a rose half sleeve tomorrow and I am so excited but also nervous of what the consequences can be unless I constantly wear long sleeves underneath my scrubs. (Oh well) I wish there wasn't this negative stigma about tattoos. They are so beautiful and expose ones personality and interests which I find beautiful. Hopefully one day they will just be considered the norm. I feel like our generation is so accepting of them, it's the older, more strict generations that have an issue with them. Once we are the oldest generation, the world will be a laid back, tatted up and beautiful place. I look forward to that. Your tattoos are gorgeous! ❤️

[@LilChubCrafts]

I'm a tattoo apprentice in Philadelphia. New Life Goal: Tattoo Qcknd

[@eeveepacini]

Thumbed up, hope you get her to notice. I'm sure she'd love to get tattooed by a fan + give you some exposure. What's your instagram? I live sort of near Philly and I'd love to check out your work!

[@LilChubCrafts]

My instagram is amberdarnellart a lot of it is just flash I've copied from other artists so I can learn what goes into tattoo flash. I'm hoping to put some original work on there soon! I also want to start posting videos on my channel again about art and stuff! Thanks for checking me out! I really appreciate it!

[@Itsraejean]

I'm so glad you made this video, I thought I was alone feeling this. I'm not a very heavily tattooed person but i have my fair share. i also find that sometimes just wanna throw a beanie on, put on a long sleeve shirt and not be bothered by strangers questions or stares, or even friends or family. i really feel you when it comes to seeing past tattoos and having an authentic conversation. I'm still planning on finishing my sleeve and covering more of my body, i don't regret any of them but sometimes we just need a break from the discussion.

[@nicolejarvis5951]

I loved this video! I hadn't realized that other people also felt this way. Some nights, when I look at my tattoos (which are all usually covered by clothes), it's startling! I love my tattoos, but it is strange to "remember" that I have them! Sometimes, it's like getting a little reminder from the past, and sometimes it's more jarring than reassuring. Just depends! You are so eloquent and kind-- this video reminded why I love the tattoo community so much!

[@anneward7536]

i love your mindful and considered sincerity. thanks for highlighting some of the conflicting issues that an inked body raises, for self and for others.

[@thetypicalblondes]

No one can explain how I feel better than you. Especially how you said that the feeling isn't regret but it's almost being re introduced everyday and it's weird but I love you so much thank you so much for everything qcknd!

[@helloojodi]

It's always so interesting for me to listen to you chat about this topic! Being someone from the other side of this world that loves the attention of being tattooed it's such a foreign concept for me to be hesitant about showing off of my skin. I almost strive to be an obnoxious visual presence with green hair and large stretched ears and over 50% of my arms covered. I hate hot weather but I almost get excited for it now because my tattoos can come out and see the world again. It's kinda cool that there's such a diversity in the tattoo world.

[@emilieffgz]

Been thinking of getting tattoos for many years now and I know i wouldn't regret them, but I can really relate to that "covering up your body permanently and it will never be the same" type of thinking, and I'm prett sure that's what's been holding me back. I feel like you gave me a new perspective on that in this video, and in a positive way, so thank you for that!

[@mydumbyoutubechannel6579]

That question really made me think... On the one hand, I'd love for my tattoos to go unnoticed and not worry about being negatively judged for having them. On the other hand, I think if everyone was tattooed it would take the excitement/ fun (I know there's better adjectives out there, but I can't think of them right now) out of being tattooed. Maybe somewhere in between... Tattoos are accepted but they're not so overdone they're sellouts. Idk if I'm making sense. I love your videos, qcknd! You're such a good speaker and I love seeing when you post a new video so I can listen to it.

[@shelbybrown8390]

I thought I was the only person who felt like this and it's kind of refreshing to know I'm not the only one. Especially since I work in an environment where my tattoos need to be (or end up being) covered, and I come home and change- my body surprises me constantly.

[@hayleywilliams8938]

such a deep video. thanks for giving actual words to my thoughts. you can be tattooed just for yourself and keeping tattoos covered doesn't mean you regret them, but you just want to keep them to yourself and share them with few people who have the privilege of seeing them on you. thanks Qcknd!

[@Duh_Hamburglar]

Deep message, I always love your topics you talk about on Tuesdays and Fridays! And thanks to you, I got the courage to get my very first tattoo! On my lower left arm; a dagger with a rose with ribbon saying "I Wont' Die Defeated". Lyrics from my favorite band, The Amity Affliction. They have helped me with music and saying the words I can't find sometimes to say when i'm in trouble. But I nod with yes that I find oppression in my home; my family is very old fashioned and hardcore religious, so when I showed my folks they said it wasn't christian-like, even though I told them i'm not a christian. Also, not only do I see it as a form of art and a beauty and uniqueness to my skin, but because i'm somewhat ashamed of my self harming past. Gladly I have stopped nearly a year now and getting help, but my left arm from top to bottom has scars that are visible and it makes me uncomfortable that people can see it and I just stay quiet when they ask. So it's a way to hide the ugliness and make my skin beautiful and exciting to look at! And I plan to fill up left arm first and go then to my right arm or a leg! Forever a follower, I'll never leave this channel, you've helped me get confidence and strength without knowing it! - Carlos ps. what's your Tumblr? I'd love to follow your Tumblr! :D

[@xburningindigo]

I'm so happy whenever I see your videos in my sub box. I've been an every day youtube viewer for about 7 years now, but you make my favorite content out of anyone else. You're so genuine. Thank you so much for sharing! ❤

[@aulbzilla1272]

Also, I really love your manner of speaking. Your videos are both informative and relatable.

[@anne-clairegibson3054]

Yes lady! I'm interrupted constantly, usually positively. I've had the usual comments like, "Why would such a pretty girl get such an ugly thing on their skin..." I work in the health/wellness field as a massage therapist in an office and in a hospital. As an LMT I have some leeway with body modification. Working in a hospital though, I'm enjoying not being a modified person since I have to cover the tattoos and "excessive" ear piercings (more than 2 holes per ear) I'd like for tattoos & non-natural hair colors to become more common place. I live in the Bible Belt though, we'll be last to pick up acceptance like that.

[@Blackscab99]

I recently got a tattoo and I'm currently suffering from that post tattoo obsession where you realize you want a million more tattoos and you want them know and this video has kind of helped me with that. Not only can I not afford to get another tattoo a week later but im young and I don't want to regret it you know? And even though my tattoos make me feel so much more beautiful this video has really helped ebb that feeling of NEEDING more tattoos and making that nap decision just because I LOVE this feeling of a whole new beauty and tattoo euphoria.

[@Catflask]

Qcknd, I agree 100%. I love how you explain things. I love how personal you get on your channel. I appreciate you.

[@Caoilfhi0nn]

Thank you so much for this video... the older I get the more this becomes a recurring realization in the spring. I got these tattoos for me... Not for the public. I don't walk up to people who look different and try to engage with them, so it will always be a touch off putting when I experience this in the warmer months. Body image is ever changing. I appreciate this video so much

[@krystallynn2165]

Your apartment looks so nice. It's so simplistic yet it still has sort of a sophisticated feel to it at the same time. I love it. 💜

[@lauraboden4053]

Lip and hair colour combo is fantastic 🌈

[@ToAnExtent]

okay 1. your floral shorts are cute as hell. 2. I was literally just talking to my (non tattooed) boyfriend about how every summer I feel like I have to reintroduce myself to my leg tattoos. I always love the way you speak about these things, almost poetic but also very relatable and comforting.

[@rebeccacombrink9238]

I always forget my back tattoo! and people always ask what it is- then I have to remind myself that its there!

[@libertypruett7114]

Rebecca Combrink it's the same with my mom. we all forget she has one on the back of her shoulder

[@StephtheWordWizard]

I have a back of the shoulder tattoo that actually scares me in the mirror sometimes. (Like "Ah! The hell is that?!?!") It's so dumb. lol

[@Clairiflied]

Rebecca Combrink I forget the size and shape of my back tattoo lmao

[@rebeccacombrink9238]

Yep! it can be such a surprise to see something there!

[@LotTee1]

I have never been able to express this emotion before with words, but I 100% get this same feeling. I absolutely love my tattoos, I've sat for hours and paid for them with my hard earned money, I don't regret them, but people make me feel so uncomfortable.

[@woodgoddess51]

You have taken the words from my mouth. I daresay this is your best video. You speak so elegantly about a topic that is hard to put to words. As far your last question, my answer is yes. I do want more acceptance for all methods of body modification. I don't think we as tattooed/modified people deserve to be treated as "freaks" like you said, so I welcome how our generation is forcing tattoos into the mainstream. I love you Qcknd, can't wait for your next video! :3

[@angelacanedit]

I love your hair like this

[@benjiboo2710]

It is so nice to see you like this again, even in your ttt vids you can see how your spirit has lifted so much and I couldn't be happier for you & your new beginnings qcknd :~)

[@melstarr90]

I was just thinking the same thing :)

[@katmarie9334]

This whole video gives me life! I have 5 tattoos all over no select area but when spring comes or even summer I question a lot no regrets just a lot up in the air and my brains always running. my thigh tattoo is my largest piece and I sometimes forget its there with winter and spring makes me remember.. anyways no regrets! but everything about this video is perfect :) thank you!!!

[@MakeupByAnnki]

This makes me kinda sad! Im so glad i dont have that constant rush of thoughts like that. I smile to myself every time i undress and see my tattoos. I never ever regret being tattooed. Maybe its different in the States than in Norway, but ive never gotten any negativity for being tattooed - if so ive ignored it and didnt notice! I never dread the spring and summer seasons just because im tattooed. If someone is wanting to chat with me when im running late - i apologize and run along, and dont ever think if they think im rude. Cause we can never ever know what person is thinking about us unless we ask! Ive had those insecurity problems myself, and i had to learn not to make up up stories of what people may think of you, cause you dont know😉 Im not a "plain jane" with tattoos. I have 5 piercings planted in the center of my face, i have stretched ears and 3 other piercings in each ear, i wear bold bright makeup on both eyes and lips, i wear "funky" green, pink, blue and purple highlighters, i have bright indigo hair AND i have tattoos😁 I love standing out and i dont care who sees me💜 And if people dont like what they see, too bad for them!

[@itscarolinemary]

When you mentioned scars I can completely relate. I have a few scars from surgeries since I was born premature and it's a very similar experience as to what you described. In my head, my image of myself is without them, but then looking in the mirror or feeling my skin I get this moment where I'm re-introduced to my skin and reminded they're there permanently. Also, it's similar in the sense that sometimes I want to wear something that happens to show them, but I want to just go about my day and not have any attention drawn to it, to not have to be asked questions and be confronted about it but then, usually I am. So I'm always conscious of what I have to wear or if my hair should be up or down (I have one on my neck). It's very tiring having this constant worry and feeling like I have to police my every day actions to avoid interactions regarding them, but it's nice not having it be pointed out when I cover them.

[@liz_or3840]

Finally, I heard someone say it! I love my tattoos, my arms are pretty heavily tattooed. I plan on getting far more. I'm an artist, art and music are the only things I've always had. Some of my tattoos cover self harm scars, some are of love and some are of loss but I love them all. I've always struggled with my body image and have suffered eating disorders. I feel a sense of security knowing no matter what happens to my body there is always something I love and chose. But sometimes I suddenly realise my arms are heavily covered and there's no going back a sometimes I feel panicked for a split second. But mainly the good feelings outweigh the bad and I'm thankful for that

[@sarahgray8193]

I can see you're feeling better! Love knowing you're in a more comfortable place. Can't wait to see you thrive!

[@JackolynSparrow]

I have found that before I was tattooed I absolutely HATED showing off my skin. I always wore long sleeves, jeans, I just despised showing off my bare skin because I hated the way my body looked. Now that I have been collecting tattoos for over 3 years now I absolutely cannot wait to show off my ink! I love showing people my collection, and the confidence that I've gained in my body because of my tattoos has helped my body confidence immensely. I love it when people want to ask me about my work, and I love the tattooing industry so much that I am more than happy to start a conversation about my ink! I have always loved - to some degree - getting attention from strangers. I always dressed outside of the box (a very heavy goth look was my day-to-day for years) and couldn't care less about what people who dislike my ink have to say about it. It has improved my quality of life and self confidence ten fold, and no matter what negative things people might have to say about them, those words have never gotten to me and never will.

[@sorryitsjenny]

This video was perfect. I recently finished my arm sleeve, I have a huge thigh piece and I’m working on a leg sleeve so I’ve been feeling more and more heavily tattooed literally out of nowhere. And I definitely get looks from people. So glad I found this channel! ♥️

[@NikkiKelleher]

I've been subscribed to you for a few months now, and you helped me get my first tattoo on Tuesday! The advice you give is fantastic and I just wanted to thank you for being you (:

[@Nikkibee716]

I loved this video so much. Really got me thinking about how often I'm stopped by strangers to talk about my tattoos in the summer.

[@mayoandchicken]

Thank you for putting this into words. I don't have many tattoos, but I sometimes feel anxiety about them knowing they are on my skin. I never regret it though, I love my tattoos and plan for more. This is a feeling I didn't know I shared with others.

[@lilygarralon7926]

Your last question was really interesting and inspiring... I just got my first tattoo this winter so I haven't got much experience but I'm not sure if I want to see how being tattooed becomes suddenly mainstream... it makes me feel like tattoos will suddenly loose part of their meaning. They are such an important decision and make you feel connected now because they are slightly taboo, but I don't feel like I have enough experience being tattooed to have an oppinion yet! Thank you for making such amazing videos :)