IT'S debatable whether getting
Improves One's Self-Esteem
People who feel good about themselves are more likely to want to express themselves through their appearance, and tattoos are a popular way to do that. For many people, getting a tattoo is a way to show the world that they are confident and proud of who they are.
This might have something to do with perceived self-confidence, as the authors note that men gain significantly more self-esteem and body appreciation after getting inked for the first time. Both men and women rated pictures of the tattooed men as more dominant, aggressive, and masculine.
Research has shown that tattoos on more visible areas of the body, such as the arms, neck, and back, are more likely to be viewed as attractive. On the other hand, tattoos on less visible areas, such as the feet and legs, are less likely to be seen as attractive.
When you get a tattoo, your body releases endorphins. Endorphins are naturally occurring chemicals that are produced by your body to relieve stress and pain. When released, they cause a euphoric feeling not dissimilar to a class of drugs called opioids.
They have found that individuals with tattoos report that they feel more attractive, stronger and more self-confident—having overcome the fear of pain. [ii] For some, tattoos seem to go deeper than just underneath the skin, creating a deep personal change, which makes him or her mentally stronger.
Tattoos can have a profound impact on a person's mental health and well-being. For many people, getting a tattoo can be a cathartic experience that helps them release emotions and feelings that they have been struggling to express.
The criteria for a tattoo to be deemed “classy” is highly subjective. However, there are styles that are more aesthetically pleasing to even the most highfalutin eye. You will want an artist that specializes in black and grey styles, and/or a tattooist with a penchant for clean minimalist lines.
Women tend to look more favourably on men with tattoos, associating them with “good health, masculinity, aggressiveness and dominance,” according to one study. What is it about tattooed men that's so attractive?
But before you get all riled up, here's what you might want to know... Even though 47 percent of men said tattoos on women were a turnoff, a number of women (38 percent) found tattoos on guys to be unattractive as well. And it seems like the opposite sexes aren't the only ones unhappy about permanent ink.
Those attracted to women saw a three-way tie between the upper back, shoulder and hips (with a 3.3 rating). The back: a top-rated tattoo location for women and men. The hip: a top-rated tattoo location for women. The upper arm: a top-rated tattoo location for men.
Tattoos in American society
As can be seen above, compared to people without tattoos, 40 percent of people find those with tattoos to be characteristically rebellious while only 16 percent of respondents find people with tattoos characteristically attractive.
Tattoos provide confidence & self-esteem
But it turns out that the confidence boosting effects aren't just for new ink. A study of 2,395 college students found a correlation between tattoos and self-esteem. And the more tattoos, the bigger the confidence boost.
For better or for worse, tattooed people are typically associated with: being extrovert, have a rich social life, or the necessity to feel unique and stand out from the of the people.
If you have a medical problem such as heart disease, allergies, diabetes, skin problems like eczema or psoriasis, a weak immune system, or a bleeding problem, talk to your doctor before getting a tattoo. Also, if you get keloids (an overgrowth of scar tissue) you probably should not get a tattoo.
You know that amazing mood boost you get after an intense gym session? The tattooing process has the same effect. These feel-good chemicals reduce your perception of the pain in the same way as drugs like morphine or codeine. You'll also feel a 'natural high' according to Mark.
Both men and women agreed that a man with a tattoo looked more masculine, dominant, and aggressive. The researchers conclude that: tattoos may have a dual function: they influence female preference, but also are likely to be important in male-male competition.
Tattoos can be a form of self-care for young people
trend report that Gen Z and Millennials are putting their own spin on self-care. It's not just bubble baths and meditation, and 17% of young people say they get tattoos as a form of personal care.
Tattoo placement trends in 2023 are proving to be quite creative and unique, with many people looking for ways to express themselves through body art. Colorful tattoos making a comeback is the next trend on the horizon as more individuals look for ways to make their tattoo stand out from the crowd.
Tattoos are generally accepted in the workplace as long as they're not offensive, unprofessional or distracting. In fact, nearly 3 out of 4 employers say they don't mind hiring tattooed workers. However, visible tattoos are not appropriate for every profession and may not match your company's vision.
The etiquette of tattoos isn't much different from other social interactions. Yes, you can ask. Staring is generally viewed as rude, and strangers should ask before touching. "For the most part, everybody is really open to conversation," English says.
Do tattoos improve mental health? Though they certainly don't treat or cure mental health conditions like depression and anxiety disorders, tattoos can be meaningful to a person. Mental health themed tattoo ideas can make for meaningful tattoos.
People usually get depression tattoos to express their emotions tangibly. For many, having something they can see and touch serves as a reminder of any difficult times they may have gone through, helping them work through their issues.
An Act of Self-Care
These acts of self-care may be foreign to people battling depression and anxiety, but because they're mandatory, your tattoo may help encourage positive behaviors for the future. It's easy to slip into apathy when you're depressed, but a tattoo can remind you that you need to look after yourself.