What do we Know About the Psychology of Tattoos?

[@niltomega2978]

To me getting a tattoo is like saying something really stupid and having to stand by it for the rest of your life.

[@OldieBugger]

I never took a tattoo. Simply because I know I'll change my mind later. Know thyself!

[@annatanneberger1]

Intelligent humans continue growing and learning and evolving and changing their minds. Thank goodness I no longer think the way I did in my 20s. I've read many books and met many people since then - all of that expand my knowledge and insights and change me in different ways. People laugh about the 60s hairstyles - but at least it was not permanent!

[@dr.alpinegreen5881]

​@@annatanneberger1 Well, getting something permanent on your body doesn't necessarily stop you from growing and learning. It can simply remind you of where in your life you have been at what point.

[@annatanneberger1]

@@dr.alpinegreen5881 There would not be enough space on my body surface to remind me of all the significant waypoints in my life - beginning with my mother's death when I was 14 yrs old (mega waypoint) followed by homelessness, along which journey there were lots of waypoints, each seeming more significant than the previous. It seems to me, the people who make a big deal out of something, tend to get stuck there forever and don't really process it or get past it. Oh, I couch-surfed for a few years until I finished school. I minimised it, because I didn't want to be carted off to a children's home. But as a result I also minimised it in my mind and got over it by the time I finished school and got a bursary and went to university. Why not rather just start a photo album or a scrap book? It can expand indefinitely and you can remove stuff that you later realise was nothing to be proud of. Also, if someone wears some jewellery, it is perfectly OK to compliment that person if you like it or find it intriguing. Ask about someone's tatoos you often get the kind of response as if you had been trying cheat by looking at someone else's exam paper or to stare at a woman's breasts. Just start a scrap book, for goodness' sake.

[@nunyabidness117]

Don't have any. Never will.

[@laosylife]

Imagine Simon has a full-body tattoo, Yakuza style. 😁

[@nosuchthing8]

Hah!

[@Nuevomexicano]

Ever notice how no one has saw the back of his head?

[@annatanneberger1]

@@Nuevomexicano has saw? has seen?

[@edwardbarnett6571]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I think there is nothing more beautiful than a woman without any tattoos.

[@rainbowtheythemshe1115]

Thank the Goddesses I have a few so I'm safe from you 😂

[@michaelberes6660]

I'm thankful that no matter how psychically attractive a woman is, tats make her repugnant to me.

[@cloudy_gomo]

Nobody with tattoos wants to date you anyway so that's OK 👍🏾

[@kokeskokeskokes]

@@rainbowtheythemshe1115 And me, and many others. Men are much more conservative. Your value to family men is now significantly less.

[@WADNAVEENEW]

Majority of men do not want the mother of his children to be the one who spoils them.

[@matthewdrummond1340]

Nothing says *"anger issues"* like my *antique typewriter tattoo* lol jk.

[@Lucailey]

that sounds like the coolest tattoo!

[@Bada_Boom78]

Not having a tattoo is the new tattoo

[@kfstreich4787]

I recall the peer pressure when I was younger. A tattoo would be awsome, just find one that doesn't look like "me too" insecurities

[@llongone2]

As one tattoo artist once told me: "You can lose everything - your house, your car, your friends, your family, even the one you love. But, no one can take your tattoos. You will go to the grave with them."

[@travelerscarapace]

llongone2 unless you get an arm chopped off :O

[@deanmartin380]

He would say that, it's his job.

[@ingriddubbel8468]

That is the tragedy of them

[@HeavenHasHooves]

My father said the same about knowledge. I am getting “wissensdurst” (thirst for knowledge) tattooed.

[@joelhall5124]

Not the greatest life achievement, of course 😂

[@matshagstrom9839]

I don’t date women who have tattoos. Never have. I would never get one. I also don’t draw on my car or furniture

[@Aris-Darling]

Tattooed women probably also won’t date you. Also, the car and furniture comment makes you sound misogynistic as hell

[@peta1001]

I have created my own (unqualified) philosophy around this subject, as I was trying to analyze both "marked" and "unmarked" individuals, who were standing out in some way. This video helped me articulate and re-order some of the aspects. Waiting for more subjects to come...

[@annatanneberger1]

Really? He's not said anything new. Pretty bland. It is currently part of popular culture, so nothing new or surprising here. It takes courage to say something controversial about the cool people. It would be as brave as showing your misgivings about genital mutilation here in Africa.

[@strangelee4400]

I have never felt the need for a tattoo. I am 47 years old and have plenty of scars to tell my life story.

[@sheep1ewe]

Same here, plenty of scars, but no tattoo...

[@fr33fall777]

Same idea brother. I'm 24 and my scars are my tattoos

[@duckysingleton4712]

I'm scarred up and tattooed. To each his own

[@fr33fall777]

duck indeed

[@aleczugcic1240]

I have both scars and tattoos. I wouldn’t be who I am without either

[@trevorclive]

I've seen several people with a semi-colon tattoo. I thought they were grammar nerds. *facepalm*

[@TaterKakez]

Trevor Clive to be fair, I had a grammar nerd friend & she got a semi colon tattoo. So... maybe both :)

[@chronobot2001]

People who are struggling with their lack of self worth who want to get it in a quick easy way get tattoos. The thing is... You still have to live with your worthless self after you get the tattoo. It's much harder to improve yourself in a substantial way that genuinely makes you a better person.

[@song-signs]

Agreed

[@nunyabidness117]

I don't get the whole tattoo thing.

[@ashleysalazar2012]

I really don't either honestly

[@eehardcast4672]

Neither do I

[@WhydoIsuddenlyhaveahandle]

Neither do I, but it is none of my business so long as they are adults :)

[@LemonCups]

You don’t have to. No one is asking you to.

[@Aris-Darling]

You don’t have to

[@gregwall6553]

Granma's butterfly is a condor now...

[@RobWhittlestone]

Not a vulture?!

[@Silkendrum]

I have seven tattoos - seven tiny black dots on my right breast, arm, and back to assist in positioning for cancer radiation treatments. NOT what I would have chosen had I ever wanted one.

[@christineparis5607]

Silkendrum They are a symbol of survival and match the seven sister stars in the sky. Quite a lucky portent for you!

[@MidnightChan94]

I'm sorry for what you are going through and hope for great health and love around you. It's no try easy to look at dots you know are ment to help you they just don't feel like it in the moment. I hope you go into remission and have many wonderful years.

[@barbaravick5634]

Silkendrum I have five of those. Left breast. Hopefully now cancer free. I was SO upset at having to be tattooed even for that absolutely necessary reason because I truly detest tattoos. The realization of it's necessity finally sank in.

[@Silkendrum]

Barbara -- I laughed when I read your comment. That was my reaction, too. I asked the technician what if I were orthodox jew, is there some way to mark me without tattoos? And he laughed and said even the orthodox accept them for this purpose.

[@petenielsen6683]

Since my cancer was an extremely rare form of Hodgkin's lymphoma and I only have single dot in the center of my chest. The other markings they re-did on each treatment with felt tip. A friend of mine (whose ovarian cancer got her 12 years after her initial treatments as it became liver cancer) had expanded the ones on her feet to the Christian fish. She suggested I get a fish on my chest and have the mark as its eye. At the time I told her I had jumped when they did my mark and wondered aloud how anyone could go through getting a tat on purpose!

[@ferociousgumby]

So if you want to feel unique, just do what everyone else does and get a tattoo.

[@cloudy_gomo]

"1/3" "Everyone"

[@kokeskokeskokes]

@@cloudy_gomo 1/3 is about the number of an appropriate age to get a tattoo, not too young, not too old. Nearly 100%.

[@TheNickPenney]

I have 80% of my body tattooed. Long time viewer. Love your channel and your delivery. Voice is soothing when I have insomnia. Edit: my tattoos fall into 3 categories: 1. things I love so much, that even when I'm depressed or bored or angry, these thing make me feel better. So just seeing them can change my mood for the better. (like the Jenny 867-5309 tattoo on my ankle... Such a stupid song with a weird premis... But it's funny and catchy and can change my mood) 2. Tributes in one way or another to either people or moments in my life that defined who I am and who I've become as a person. 3. Joke and/or magic tattoos (I'm a sword swallower, modern sideshow performer, and magician). I have a few of them. Like the © & TM symbols on my butt cheeks. Makes no sense But it's funny to me, and to my audiences. Some fall into multi categories, both tribute and fandom and a reminder of good times when I'm feeling down.. Example being my Beauty & the Beast from the 1991 Disney film. It's a nostalgic reminder of a film my kid sister and I enjoyed together as children, a film I still enjoy revisiting. So it's both a tribute to my (still living) sister and a way to bring me back to better times when I glance at it.

[@christineparis5607]

Everything Nick I love your reasons!! Very beautiful, and your profession is carrying on an ancient way of life that is almost gone. Wonderful!

[@barbaraday7662]

Heh... I’m Mexican and I have the “made in Mexico “ logo (an eagle) on my butt cheek

[@rush1er]

Your culture has some of the most beautiful artwork...perfect for tattoos

[@TheNickPenney]

Barbara Day Haha I love that.

[@ForestSakan]

You have just describe aclinic case of maniac depressive personality...and confirm people who gets tattoes are eitheir depressive...masochistic..or just insecure

[@jaspr1999]

Funny how times change. When I was a teenager a tattoo was stigmatized and the person that had them were stereotyped as either a bad/violent person or a sexually 'loose' person. Particularly females with tattoos. Now, tattoos are called body art and are much more socially acceptable. My personal experience in differences between people with and without tattoos flies in the face of what I grew up with as unless the person's tattoos are visible or they just tell you I've found no dividing personality between the two groups. Very interesting video.

[@aussiebloke609]

To me, the tattoo used to be a sign of the "rugged individualist"...and now they're a sign of conformity. And pretty ugly IMHO. I'll pass.

[@jaspr1999]

Esme Nouvelle - I just like the fact that some things do that. My dot tattoos are more functional as they just help during chemo. I don't like them and am considering just getting something put over them to join them together. It would be funny if the dots came into vogue.

[@jaspr1999]

2000jago - I do apologize, I did say it was for chemotherapy... Cancer treatment. The dots save time in targeting the correct spots over an extended period of time.

[@deanmartin380]

Still sexually loose.

[@jeniwatkins3297]

@@2000jago a dot tattoo is exactly what it sounds like. A dot that is tattoos. Like poking yourself with an ink pen.

[@crazyfathamsta2701]

Merry Christmas Simon... Most of my family is inked up. My dad has some small but powerful designs. He has his daughters names on him but like I stated they're not that large. I enjoy looking at tattoos even though I can't have one. Its therapy for me

[@3bydacreekside]

Pamela Sackitt Can't have one?

[@crazyfathamsta2701]

Garrett Powell no due to risk of infection issues. really bad immune system

[@karlbergen6826]

Personally I am not into being tattooed.

[@owenmadden7577]

Tattoos are a real turn off. It's just another part of the normalization of criminal culture.

[@nolord2563]

It must be sad being you

[@Eu3214]

​@@nolord2563I'd say it's sad for you. People with tattoos are mentally ill if you ask me besides that there are studies that show people with tattoos are mostly people with mental illness or with ADHD.

[@barbaraday7662]

I don’t know about “risk taking” and “anger issues”. Many people now do extensive research into artists before getting a tattoo to make sure it is perfect. I have several tattoos but zero anger issues. Also work in a very professional setting.

[@ForestSakan]

Then u are just stupid...dont worry u are part of the majority

[@misslissy7795]

I waited until I was over 30 before I got my tattoo and don't regret or regert it, lol.

[@johnsummers9660]

Yeah but do you rugrat it? Thank you for reminding me of the joy of looking at misspelled tattoos. Your comment is the best comment on this video as of January 22, 2018.

[@xiaco8309]

NO RAGRETS lol

[@itskitty808]

I twisted until I was 23 to get my first tattoo.

[@Aconitum_napellus]

@Di Ane Have you got supporting evidence for these claims?

[@mariavelasquez609]

Same here I waited 39 years

[@CarolineCarnivorous]

I use my tattoos to tell my life story; my tattoos represent me, my personality, interests and experience - through beautiful works of art that mean something to me.

[@momcat2223]

"...by the time they turned 30, however, they wanted it gone..." Wow. Didn't even get my 1st until in my mid-40s and now have 14. Can't imagine removing any of them, as each is personally meaningful. That said, none are on public display, either, which may be what drives ladies to want theirs gone. "Think before you ink - it's a lifetime commitment!" is about the best advice ever.

[@ForestSakan]

Rather if you think no way you ink

[@song-signs]

But what about think?

[@mirumotsuyasuke8327]

I'll still have my tattoos on my spirit, when this body is left behind.

[@jannetteberends8730]

I got my first tattoo in a time women didn’t have them. With the tattoo I wanted to express what a tough woman I was. The reactions varied from “what sweet” to “it really fits your personality”. May be I should not have taken a butterfly.

[@enrgy-xh5uq]

What is a woman?

[@isaiahayers1550]

​@@enrgy-xh5uq an adult female.

[@enrgy-xh5uq]

@@isaiahayers1550 what is woman

[@song-signs]

@@enrgy-xh5uq😂

[@gtcrain3687]

1 out of 3 Americans have tattoos and I saw a guy that looked like Simon with an Apple tattoo on his arm. With those 2 facts all I know is tattoos are no longer cool.

[@o8oo0880oo8o]

Mine started as a desperate ploy to fit in as a kid, then they became something else entirely. I have 9 now and all (but the first two I got when I was 16) represent different moments in my life that I never wanted to forget. Now all I have to do is look and it reminds me of the lessons learned in the past.

[@o8oo0880oo8o]

...more of a closure thing I suppose.

[@BobSmith1980.]

Companies with no tattoo policies should be sued for discrimination

[@BobSmith1980.]

@70 Series Tires there's a lot of truth to that. From personal experience I know. How I wanted to be perceived at 20 is not how I want to be perceived at 40

[@cristinitacorazon3377]

Depending on the business, some tattoos are just not appropriate. Like a crazy dude smoking a joint isn't suitable to be visible on somebody's arm at a drug rehab clinic. I just spent the summer working at a garden center, so outside in the heat, shorts and t-shirts, tank tops for staff and customers. Tattoos completely fine for staff. And so many customers, completely different walks of life, with so many different tattoos. From the young to the old, men and women, professionals and laborers. It was awesome!

[@grannykiminalaska]

I have 1 tattoo, my wedding band. My husband and I did it for our anniversary.

[@monikanoneya5140]

I have 6 tattoos, I got my first one in my 40s, each are things I love and/or have a deep meaning. I don't fall into any of the categories mentioned in this video. I just love them and enjoy having them.

[@Shockwave-ob2tx]

Hi Simon! Merry Christmas!

[@udornyc]

I am always hesitant when I see clips about "psychology of tattoos"... I am glad this video was more encompassing and touched even the history of tattoos. I have to add that, years and years ago, when the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC had an exhibition, called "Marks of Identity", I obtained a book (long lost since) that showed that pottery shards (terracotta) found in graves of nomadic warriors in the steppes of Siberia, showed warriors on horses with tattoos... those graves were dated 27,000 years ago. Now... I am having a Japanese bodysuit and I am involved in the body mod community... and as an artist (photographer and painter), I know a lot of heavily tattooed people who will not fit those findings of Prof. Viren Swami, as being more aggressive towards authority figures... as so many of them are very calm, very thoughtful people. If that professor looked only at prison tattoos... he should make that distinction. Of course, if his sample group are a bunch of tattooed people with anger issues... then he'd come naturally to that conclusion, which still would make his study and the results highly questionable. Lastly... "risky behavior"... really, Simon? "Smoking"?, "the risk of bad tattoos??? How about that many tattooed people are into EXTREME SPORTS (another study from long time ago... e.g. I used to be a martial artist, technical scuba diver and mountain climber (still am, at 52)... Oh... and there was once a study that also showed that many of the tattooed people also had an above average socio economic standing, college and graduate degrees and made above average income... Besides those points... good job! Happy New Year!

[@Mondo762]

You missed a big one - Merchant Seamen. Tattooing goes back many centuries in that profession. It was very popular on the sailing ships.

[@kkfoto]

One of my ancestors was a merchant mariner and he had tattoos. Everyone in the family talked about that, because nobody else had tattoos.

[@petenielsen6683]

My tattoo was medically necessary. Often radiation therapy requires a tat so that the patient can be properly centered on the table each and every time.

[@coffinbatdelagrave9821]

That's an interesting side of tattooing

[@Webster9214]

My grandma has 2 tattoos because of radiation

[@trixstermillion2190]

Can't they just draw on you with a Sharpie?

[@bentwookie2099]

​@@trixstermillion2190I know this is 4 years old, but are you still as dumb these days? A sharpie wouldn't be in the exact same spot every time , which is the point , they want the exact same spot centered every time for consistency

[@ferociousgumby]

But people DO get addicted to plastic surgery, even though it's expensive, time-consuming, takes energy and commitment, etc. etc. If someone is a mass of tattoos, they're a walking billboard for addiction (to pain as well as garish designs).

[@sketchesofpayne]

Tattoos are for short-sighted extroverts. It's a declaration that you need an external depiction of what you feel inside. It's also indicates you don't think your values, tastes, or preferences will change when you grow older and (hopefully) mature.

[@cristinitacorazon3377]

So, me deciding to get my tattoo after waiting 20 years from when I first wanted it, and on a place that is not easily visible, or not telling everyone I encounter, makes me a short-sighted extrovert?

[@ypkufl]

that is insightful

[@thepursuiterer]

Most of the people that I know with tattoos are absolutely not extroverted

[@song-signs]

Essentially immature

[@amb163]

I got my tattoo when I was 32, I am not a risk-taker, I don't smoke, very few people even realise I have one because I got it for MYSELF and no one else, and my tattoo has nothing to do with anger. I got it to remind myself that the universe is infinite and diverse.

[@barbaraday7662]

I started getting tattoos in my 30s as well and I’m definitely not an angry person. Also I research the artists extensively and make sure they are perfect and skilled for the type of tattoo I want so not so much “risk taking”.

[@OldMotherNowhere]

See, same here! I got my first one just recently after my 28th birthday, on my shoulder (which I hardly wear tank tops) and it was for me. Not for confidence sake, not to show off, not to be a unique person... I abide my the law and can be a wet blanket at times when there is an offer to do something riskay. I hate drinking and I'm not a fan of smoking, though when I was younger I did for a bit... I also don't really indulge in sex with my partner (though it's nice when we do; and he's super attractive, which helps) and I do not get angry with people and openly argue with anyone unless it's dire I'm understood. I just always liked tattoos and it took a lot to get the nerve up to do it. I wanted to scratch it off my bucket list.

[@Peecamarke]

Sooo...self-improvement? Number 9?

[@luhe8]

similar story here

[@larryng1]

an update in the year 2028 would be cool

[@dreasmom2789]

Merry Christmas Simon.🎄🎄🎄🎄

[@Aconitum_napellus]

From an anthropological perspective, tattoos, along with other forms of art and body modification, are one of the defining traits of our species.

[@KryssLaBryn]

@Andrew Manche I got mine as a physical confirmation of a source of spiritual strength when I was diagnosed with cancer last year, right before I started my treatment. Got the full meal deal: Surgery, chemo, radiation. It's for *me*. It's inside my wrist, where it isn't easily visible to anyone else, and I can easily hide it with long sleeves, wide watch band, or bracelets if I feel a need to (haven't yet though), but I myself can easily see it and draw strength from it, which I have a *lot* over the past year. And you can tell it's for *me*, because the symbol, which would be upside down for anyone else I was showing it, is the right side up for me. People get tattoos for as many reasons as there are people with tattoos out there. And most of them aren't about trying to fit in, my man. Most of them are of deep personal significance, one way or another. You want to fit in? You buy the same jeans as the other kids. No one gets permanently inked to "fit in".

[@kokeskokeskokes]

Cows and dogs have them, defining human species according to you

[@TrineDaely]

While not as old as Otzi, the Siberian Ice Maiden’s ink would be worth a mention, she’s from the 5th century BCE. No regrets on my tats. Wouldn’t mind getting more.

[@aprilrichards762]

I have 3 and feel more complete with each 1. I want so many more!

[@marjorie_muiruri]

I get u. I really crave getting tatts after my second one

[@aprilrichards762]

@@marjorie_muiruri I have several planned but I don't have the money.

[@ferretrunner09]

Nothing says anger like my ferret tattoos. I also have a tattoo on my right ankle commemorating a life changing brain injury. Insurvived.

[@ThomasinaJefferson-ke7xs]

John Barber 😂🤦‍♀️

[@benjamintaylor3934]

Ferrets are awesome 😍

[@Lucailey]

@@benjamintaylor3934 so is survival!

[@ActuallyDoubleGuitars]

I feel like this video just villifies people with Tattoos even further and continues the Stereotyping. At the end of the day it's just art that people use to express themselves, like how we do it with the clothes we wear. I have a Tattoo and I don't feel like I can relate to the reasons given in this video about why I got mine. I think the world would be a boring place without this kind of beautiful Art walking around.

[@Ninus316]

Whatever the studies may say; I've heard from hundreds of tattooed persons that they find the whole process addicting. Take from that what you will. As the numbers of people getting inked goes up; I see less and less "unique" people. For example the picture of the two tattooed and pierced women in this video. The only marked differences between them were the things that they were born with; height, body type, etc. Otherwise they could've been sisters or twins. By staying uninked or pierced; I become more unique than anyone I see on the street. lol

[@josephde-zordi7324]

He forgot to mention, narcissism, self indulgent personalities, who focus on themselves

[@annatanneberger1]

Genital mutilation is also a tradition that goes back thousands of years.

[@Nightswarmer]

I got my first tattoo the summer after I turned 18 and I just turned 21 and I have an appointment for my second one on Saturday.. And even tho it's not typical "addiction behavoir", my dad recently got his 7th tattoo and he have told me it is addictive.. But it's not a spontantios addiction.. I just walk around, constantly thinking, planning and getting inspired by the world around me as ideas for another tattoo.. I won't get them all right away, but I often find myself thinking about what and where it would be awesome with a tattoo.. So I guess it becomes an obsession, more than an addiction..

[@sarahchaplin4833]

That is what I do. My tattoos aren’t spontaneous ones. I put thought into each one and save money for each one. So they have more meaning and I won’t regret them

[@samwizeganji5222]

Always amazing!!!!! Thank you Simon & team smarter everyday/Toptenz!!!!!

[@TonyZmex]

Tattoos are ways for people to get attention, to hide their fears or sometimes to avoid people

[@wintergray6918]

I have several tattoos. These are my suggestions for anyone thinking of getting inked: 1: Find a quality artist. It's gonna be more expensive than a cheep tattoo, but you're talking about a permanent mark on your body. You want the best quality possible. If you add in that a reputable shop will always observe proper sterilization techniques (which carries less danger than some dude stabbing you millions of times with a sewing needle while drunk in his kitchen), and most shops have policies of giving discounts on touch-up work, you realize getting a cheap tattoo isn't worth the risk. 2: Think about what you want for a long time. I mean a long time. This ties in with number three, but needs some explaining first. I have my entire right arm sleeved in ivy vines that are blooming, going from the back of my hand and wrapping around my shoulder, extending onto my chest and back. Its huge, and was something I'd always wanted, but I knew it would change my life. Mostly in how I was perceived, opportunities I may not get in the future, and the impact having such a visible mark would have on my own sense of self. I thought about it for more than 10 years before I did the first sitting, just to be certain it was what I wanted. I didn't think about any of my others for as long, but they had copious amounts of time I thought about them before getting into a chair. 3: Make them have deep personal meaning. That's tricky, though, because we change as people over time. Just because you really like Ren and Stimpy, Rick and Morty, or some random genocidal maniac right now, that doesn't meant you're gonna want them on your skin when you're 45. You might like the artwork still, but there's a good chance your tastes will change as you get older. Thinking about what you want for a long time can eliminate getting tattoos that don't mean as much, or only fit you for a very limited time of your life. Tattoos that no longer fit us, or don't have personal meaning, are tattoos that people regret. If you have an idea for a tattoo, think about what it represents in your mind, then think about the possibility that you may not always feel that way. Tattoos with life spanning meaning, while they may fade, are almost never regretted. 4: Get them somewhere on you where you can see them with little effort. The back is a wonderful canvas, but if you ever want to actually look at the art you've paid so dearly for, it's gonna take some contorting. Save that area for a big project later down the line. The first tattoos should be where you can look at them with little effort and be easily covered with standard clothing. This allows you to enjoy it easier, and will be an example that lets you decide if you want another. Seeing your skin permanently marked every time you take a shower, get dressed, have fun time with your partner, whatever, will keep it fresh in your mind. A tattoo on the back is easy to ignore or even forget about, which can cause people to forget about the other things I've listed, leading to regretting tattoos. There are tons of little tips I could give, but I think those are the main ones I recommend to all my friends. Keeping to those basic rules I've been able to get tattoos through the years and have only ever regretted my first (which is now well covered with one that actually fits me, not a solitary moment in my life.) Tattoos, when done right, can be a beautiful way for people to express their personality. Or they can be a source of misery. The difference between the two is the planning you put into them.

[@barbaraday7662]

Winter Gray well said!

[@christineparis5607]

Winter Gray That's great advice!!! I love mine and I dreamed about them forever, and never regretted a thing! I'm so happy I did! Getting a great tattoo is much better than a great deal, as you said, saves in the long run.

[@Bob5mith]

My first tattoo meant something. Its cover up meant less. The rest only mean that I like the art.

[@willow-georgeovertton1222]

I totally agree. I have tattoos and have used the same artist for all of mine. All can be covered for professional endeavours

[@sweettater42]

I was 50 before I got my first tattoo. Just finished my 4th one. I am 52, a female successful business owner( 3 years) mother of 2 boys(16 and 21).I dont drink, have never done drugs, prefer to be single (never married)don't sleep around. I have a heart with my sons names. a pisces fish sign, an art deco bracelet, and an ankle chain with sugar skulls and the names of my dead mother and grandmother. So my tats arent about what addictions, demons, attention seeking behavior or current trend, they are personal to me. Frankly I think tats are a way of saying I don't give a frog about what society thinks.

[@johnkim8259]

How did your boys turn out?

[@6ixConfessions]

For many of us tattoos are a celebration of life, love, freedom, people, courage, blessings, reminders & lessons learned. For anyone who cares to take a closer look & ask you'd be surprised just how much they can tell you about a person's life. They are art & they remain with us for life if we choose to keep them. They are a part of who we are just as the colour of our hair is or the colour of our skin & so many of the tattoos have an interesting meaning behind them. I'm a 52 year old divorced mother of 2 beautiful, gentle, kind and non-judgemental adults. I don't party hard, do drugs or smoke in fact; I actually live a quiet life so tattoos are something even the most conservative & quiet among us might have so please, don't judge the inked until you get to know them at least.

[@jenniferahough4983]

Kimm 65 Virtually Ditto, except I have 4 kids.

[@FLHerbologistLaura]

Exactly!

[@jessebartlett3637]

what you fail to realize is that no one cares that you have the need to mutilate yourself. I really hope you get to a place in life where you can accept yourself unconditionally without the need to document it on your b0dy. So yes tattoos are an outward manifestation of inner turmoil and trama.

[@josephsmith6777]

Im 41 i have many tattoos i started getting them bc i was in prison and needed a way to make money so i could draw but had to learn to tattoo obviously i started on myself and close friends i was never in a gang but did many gang jobs it made me a very responsible artist bc if u working on a gang member u need to know what ur doing if ur client knows what it means and if hes supposed to have that particular tattoo this is mostly out of self preservation but also my clients saftey most of the time u can tell the difference between jail and street work but bc off the style today bn mostly black and grey it can b hard to tell also i have none on my hands neck or face simply bc it was a life decision to b a ble to cover all them if i chose i know do exclusive work using past loved ones material incorporated in the ink b it a letter or actual ashes from there remains this gives a bond w lost loved ones every tattoo i have besides 2 or 3 is a memorial to a lost loved one

[@bartek4536]

Why would I put a sticker on a Ferrari?

[@porschephile2k3]

Stickers can be repealed. It's more like tagging your Ferrari with spray paint. It's removable but very difficult. Laser removal procedures are expensive; they require multiple sessions and can be literally painful.

[@LemonCups]

May as well not even paint the thing either.

[@janiekilkelly]

I'm a 64 year old woman. I got my first tattoo to celebrate my heritage 20 years ago. I got my second one last year to tell my life story in a way which made it mine. I love them.

[@stevet9652]

We didn't need to know about your heritage or your life story. You could've wrote it on a piece of paper for yourself and keep it in a private area so you can reflect on your own time. WE DON'T CARE!!!!

[@Agent-cy5yb]

I tattoo myself when I am unusually depressed or under a lot of stress. In a way its a type of self hurting or cutting, but I can hide it in the open.

[@song-signs]

Wack

[@LisaIsHappyToBeSane]

I'm 45 and have an appointment set for another tattoo. I have a whole hip peice, quarter sleeve on one arm and three quarter on the other arm. My appointment is set for one on my ankle. I only get tattoos of things that mean something to me. I have birth month flowers of every child and now starting flowers for my grandbabies. I also have horses on me because I used to be a licensed animal rescuer who fostered and trained horses. I also have a Native American symbol because I am Apache. I'm never embarrassed by my tattoos because they are a story painted on me about me. I have been with only one man for over 20 years and not a risky person. I don't drink, never did drugs, and never been in trouble with the law.

[@sammieskeleton3339]

you go girl , paint your life your dreams and memories make your body a beautiful canvas off your life , i wish you luck .

[@dionemena751]

Not everything is absolute. I'm a female with tattoos. My skin is my canvas, and it tells my story. My tattoos are a reflection of who I am and who my ancestors were, my thoughts, my code, my life. Like I tell my kids, tattoos are permanent and personal, make sure your not drunk and it's something that when you're 70, you will not regret. But then, that is just my story. ✊

[@blazegirl74]

I got my first ever tattoo almost three weeks ago while on vacation in Seoul. I found an artist I liked and had been following him on Instagram for quite some time. I love my tattoo and have no regrets at all.

[@SEB1991SEB]

I honestly don't think I care enough about any one thing that I could get a tattoo of it

[@Hawk1966]

I memorialized my parents on my forearms so I can always have them close to my heart.

[@diblep2741]

@@Hawk1966 afraid you'll forget them?

[@Hawk1966]

Actually, in a way. I can't mentally picture anyone, ever. I can remember someone that I've seen if I see them again but I honestly couldn't describe anyone's features in detail.

[@Shatterverse]

You didn't cover tattoos that cover up injury scars, surgery scars, cover-ups, or other cosmetic tattoos.

[@amandajones661]

Oh yes! This! I think the number in America is so high is because they group medical tattoos in the list. I know someone with a nipple tattoo after she had breast cancer. And those who have face tattoos to cover burns.

[@secretlyclever4062]

People can have all the opinions they want about tattoos, but it's not gonna change my view on them. Everyone in my family has a tattoo, pretty much. You either like them or you don't, period. No one is forcing you to get one.

[@annatanneberger1]

So, what do these people do when they run out of space? Are these people's lives so small that they think that the limited space they have on their skin is sufficient to express themselves.

[@jaqjynx]

This was really interesting. But I do have a few issues, I’m a woman (who is almost 30, got my first one with I was 18) with several tattoos. I do not regret a single one. And I wouldn’t say I’m particularly aggressive. But that’s just me.

[@eddyguizonde401]

my mom got tattooed before i did. at age 60. she hated the fact she had almost no eyebrows so got some inked. me? a friend changed careers from graphic design to tattooing and asked for volunteers. i was his third ever. knowing his skill with a pencil and now with a dermograph, i consider that first tat the truest form of trust in someone's artistic qualities. (yes, he nailed it). also, why the hell wouldn't i do it? i'd never gotten inked before and didn't know what it felt like. all my ink is hidden, and each piece is something that gives me a symbol of protection in my psyche while also describing key elements in my personal history. win-win. as for what'll happen to them when i die, hopefully my corpse can be flayed and the ink preserved as a sort of biography. currently, where i live now, that's kinda-sorta-slightly crazy illegal, but hey, one can dream.

[@JamFlexx]

vro no one wants your decomposing skin no matter what kinda art is on it you know how many humans are on this rock besides you lol

[@sirnubenegra]

I had the misfortune of dating tatted women. All had bpd. When i asked if they did, they were surprised. The used tats to replace cutting themselves.

[@RyanRichardsToby]

My mom stopped being able to grow eyebrows in her 50's, so she had eyebrows tattooed onto her.

[@FahqAll]

When anyone tells me about getting a tattoo and doesnt know what to get i tell them pick out a tattoo and make sure they really like it, then wait a year or 2 or whatever, but if u want the same tattoo after that long then go ahead. I've wanted my tattoo since I was 11, i waited till i was 26

[@jeniwatkins3297]

Many of us get them simply because of the beautiful design or as a memorial of a lost loved one. I have several and most are for loved ones. Something that represents them, something they loved. My oldest brother has a full body suit and is one of the gentle souls you could ever meet. He's never mad at anything, laid back and goes with the flow... Hates conflict. So i guess he missed the memo about being angry and hostile if you get a lot of ink. Lol

[@JohnStephenWeck]

Good video. Are the officers also getting tattoos at the same rate as the enlisted men? :)

[@mr.shorty4522]

Officers are nerds so no signed a salty enlisted guy

[@Cyle_C]

No officers don't nearly get as many

[@agiraffe3673]

I had a female Lt that had sleeves in my unit, but not as much, no. By the time I retired, I had full sleeves too, but it was not all at once, got them over time. I forget I have them till I scare little old ladies at the shop-mart, when I politely hold the door for them.

[@nyneeveanya8861]

Another reason for tattoos is to cover scarring. I’ve seen many pictures women have had done to cover mastectomy scars. I even considered one to cover the long scar down my leg to cover a surgery scar, but I hate needles more than the scar.

[@esra_erimez]

As someone with an injury that left a scar and took a long time to heal, I don't know why people scar themselves on purpose.

[@ActuallyDoubleGuitars]

It's not a scar, it's art you wear on your body.

[@tookitogo]

Esra Erimez That’s actually really easy to answer: the injury left you with an involuntary change to your body; it violated your body autonomy. In contrast, getting a tattoo or other body modification is a way to *exercise* your body autonomy.

[@jessebartlett3637]

@@ActuallyDoubleGuitars Its actually mutilating your body.

[@clod8]

Do any of you with tattoos regret having them? Full sleeve tattoos are very common where I live; mostly in the 30-50 age group. I think I’d be tired of having the same pictures on me. Also, I would notice all the imperfections

[@Pixiwish]

It is different for everyone. I would say you are much more likely to regret them if you get them from 18-25 because you are still discovering who you are as a person so a lot about you will change, but your tattoos won't. I knew the tattoo I wanted my late 20s and started it in my early 30s. Years later I'm just about to complete it and I have 0 regrets. Part of why it has taken so long was I got it done in pieces to gauge my regret and it never came. I never thought I would actually get it because I was worried about regret or what it would look like when I got older and then my childhood best friend died in a freak accident in a fire. We don't know if we will even have the time to regret a tattoo. I started it after his memorial.

[@jerryang17]

If 1 in 3 people in the US has a tattoo and 36% of people with tattoo are serving or have served in the military... Than 30+ million people in the US are military personnel?!

[@jerryang17]

And if 90% of people in the US military have tattoos, as stated as well, that would mean the US has around 40 million military or ex-military personnel. That seems a gross overestimate...

[@annettefournier9655]

Jerry Ang left brain? Lol

[@99smite]

When incompetent in maths, refrain from shitposting. Remember veterans? They no longer serve and therefore do not count as military personnel...

[@jerryang17]

99smite Still off by millions. When incompetent in fact-checking, please refrain from correcting others.

[@99smite]

y u no understand "have served"?

[@Ryan78336]

I have given my tattoo a lot ot thought, even though I haven't gotten it done yet. Its going to be s flaming sword pointing down with a snake wrapped around it from the hilt (tail) to the point (head) The snake will be red and black, the sword is silver and the flames are blue. It is to remind me of several things. Firstly; that kindness wouldn't exist without cruelty, that one has to be a little bit mean to be kind. Secondly; that the right thing is almost never the easy thing and I should always strive to do the right thing not the easy thing. Also that it's supposed to resemble the staff of asclepius, the snake embodies healing and renewal, and the sword, doing the right thing, integrity and protecting others. Its interpretation is kind of nebulous and multidimensional but it is primarily to remind me of these things. It about sums me up, its multiple facets help me to remember to always be kind and to do the right thing. To remind me that I am strong, that I can protect others and that I can help my fellow humans. I would also like a semicolon somewhere and another small recoiled snake elsewhere just as a reminder that its fine if people dislike me, just as the snake is disliked commonly for being venomous, it still symbolises healing and renewal, I may be disliked by some but my integrity stands regardless. when I was a kid I wanted Borg tattoo on my face, when I was a little older I wanted something to do with doctor who, but now it resembles a meshing together of symbols from fiction, history and mythology in a way that sums me up in a lot of different ways depending on the biases of the person looking at it. When I see it, I will be reminded to be kind, to show integrity, to protect, serve, to do the right thing, to be prepared to be disliked by some and remain strong even in the face of difficulty. Difference here is that Ive really thought this one through, drawn it several times to trial different coulers, locations and scales and asked those I care about regarding it.

[@honestlynate7922]

Silver will be a hard color

[@5688gamble]

I'd argue that when it comes to "promiscuity" that people with tattoos tend to be more adventurous in the first place, this does not equate to being "easy" and so what if it did? Why should a woman be considered differently from a man when it comes to wanting to enjoy her sexuality, whether with multiple partners or just in having more and doing more adventurous things with her partner, my ex and I did a lot of things together but she was very loving too, frankly if men really wanted more sex, why would they go about making it shameful for a woman to have multiple partners or a high sex-drive? That is the kind of attitude that leads to people being uncomfortable with what is in essence a normal thing that we all desire, intimacy. If you are comfortable with what you are doing, enjoy it and don't hurt anybody doing it, don't let anybody shame you, embrace it! Who cares? As long as you are happy!

[@dannymaciejewski]

I had a high expectation for this video given the title but left feeling like I just read an essay from a 12yo school student. EDIT- Changed my mind on my comment, was being negative

[@izzysmomtattoos8274]

So me and my mom have a bunch of similar tattoos, matching tattoos, i have mom and she has my name. My mom has cancer. When she dies i have those memories permanently in my skin.

[@Ayaforshort]

Honestly I'd rather just buy clothing. I prefer to express myself through fashion as my art. My body the canvas. My art can change as I do.

[@porschephile2k3]

There are multiple ways to express yourself without getting one that is fairly permanent.

[@se7enity648]

What I do not understand is this. Why do very beautiful people have such bad tattoos! They just don’t have 1 but several bad tattoos.

[@alinamarr5268]

Tattoo artist here! I love my job 😁 (no anger issues here lol) most of my female clients are 25-45 y.o professionals and if there is anything deviant about them I’d be shocked! I think tattooing has made a comeback, but still is stigmatized one way or another. Let’s be real though; every tattoo has its own meaning and everyone who has one can’t fall into predetermined personality traits.

[@ForestSakan]

Sorry...u have psychological issues...most commonly insecurities...passive agressive and certainly manisc depressive..it is one of this of all...possible feeling of abandontment during childhood and regrets for past actions

[@russellbogrett605]

Got my first tattoo at 55. I love it! What a feeling and looks great. I now have 2 and saving money for more....

[@nmarrs8539]

Some of my tattoos are there to help me with my confidence. The one on my hand for sure.

[@tommykaira8775]

So far I haven't heard of a respectable reason for people getting tattoos

[@kokeskokeskokes]

How about "Now I am a non-stereotypical rebel just like everybody else is"?

[@greygalah]

that was interesting. Nice job especially to release it on Boxing Day

[@OfWavesAndWinds]

I love tattoos that are meaningful and perfect looking but my style and tastes change so I preffer to express my individuality with clothes.

[@brandonlawson2460]

Get ready to have older women clutch their purse and children when you pass.😂 Never gets old.

[@A_Dog_Formerly_Known_As_Cat]

I experienced this long before I got tattoos, perks of being a black dude

[@alexishough99]

jon bennett lmaoo. facts.

[@TaterKakez]

Older women love my tattoos. Old men tell me I’m too pretty for them. I’d rather someone clutch their own pearls than try to control mine 😂

[@NumeMoon]

I often forget I have a tatt because it's on my back, so I don't usually see it. I got it for my 30th birthday. It wasn't impulsive. I wanted it from the time I was a kid, and I always said I'd get it when I turned 30 if I still wanted it. No regrets!

[@johnkim8259]

What is the cost/benefit of your decision since you got the tattoo?

[@ypkufl]

nobody cares that you have a drawing on your back

[@shinobusora]

The moment I walked out of the shop after my first tattoo, I was planning my second. After a sitting to get both my second and third, I left planning my forth. It's like eating chips; once you have one, it's hard to stop. Damn lack of disposable income tends to get in the way, though.

[@rossmurrayfam1568]

No that's drugs bro everyone gets one tattoo then thinks it through

[@cristinitacorazon3377]

I got my semicolon this past May, mental health awareness month. Labor day family get together, she asked what is that on your neck? Like What did you do now? Had my friend, since 2nd grade we're now 45, Google and read aloud the meaning. My sister, Oh, OK. Totally cool with it now that she understood. My mom, who's not fond of tattoos, has absolutely no problem with it. When I was 12, I asked my parents if I could get a tattoo, my dad said when I turn 18 you can do whatever you want. I wanted a yinyang. So, when I was 32, I got one. With the sun,Earth, and moon equidistant around it. Again, explained the meaning to me, and they were all cool with it. I figured if, after 20 years, i still wanted it permanently on my body, I won't regret it. Still love having it. I do find it silly for people to get tattoos that have no meaning for them. Random designs or impulse selections just mean more money for the doctor removing them later.

[@recipio6561]

As Robin Williams joked " that tatoo of a sunrise over your butt soon turns into a spider crawling out of your crack " People, stop - the unadorned human body is infinitely more beautiful than any tatoo.

[@jamespicard5851]

Uniqueness - I don't know about you, but I feel pretty unique by not having a tattoo these days.

[@xiaco8309]

As a person that has tattoos, I can totally see where you are coming from. The individuality of tattoos is in what they actually are. Some people have tattoos that are obscenely cliche. But having none is also displaying one’s individuality. Take away, having a tattoo or not doesn’t define a person or make one better than the other. Just maybe don’t get a swastika or something of the like.

[@GredelsRage]

I've got a @20 tattoos. All took years to plan and draw out. I love them all and see them as a reclamation of my body after difficulties and heartbreaks. I'd get them all again too....except the ones on scar tissue...they aren't holding enough and look like a blind 4 year old with a blue crayon attacked me.

[@TL....]

do people with tattoos have all sorts of magnets and other things pinned to their refrigerators ? just curious

[@mikes2622]

I got my first tattoo on my back, it was over ten years before I got my second. Now I have two full sleeves.

[@darquequeen2323]

Windex Oh Yeah Yeah Yet you commented. Guess you do.

[@mellowlink1215]

I have a few and want more. They are decorations like pictures in a home, not some deep seeded evil.