Tattoos are an outlet for their creativity 38% of Millennials have between 1-6 tattoos, according to a Pew Research survey. Half of those with tattoos have 2-5 and 18% have 6 or more. The trend has been influenced by celebrities and influencers, and TV shows such as Miami Ink.
Tattoos can be a form of self-care for young people
It's not just bubble baths and meditation, and 17% of young people say they get tattoos as a form of personal care. The number who say so is even higher for the tattoo loving Millennial parent demographic (25%).
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.
Millennials (1981-1996) are currently the most tattooed generation. In 2021, 12% of millennials reported having one tattoo, and 29% said they have multiple. This generation opts for more visible pieces, as tattoos have gained more acceptance among their parents and employers.
Our latest study shows one in four Australians has a tattoo (25%) – a record high. This is up from 20% in 2018 and 19% in 2016. The proportion of women with a tattoo now exceeds that of men by more than ten per cent (31% women compared to 19% men).
Given the rich history, perhaps it's not surprising that tattoos have become more and more popular once again. In part, this is because they are being worn by public figures such as celebrities, athletes, and people within the fashion industry.
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.
A 2012 study found that personality differences between tattooed and non-tattooed individuals were "generally small" although those with tattoos tended to be more extroverted and display a greater "need for uniqueness". "It seems to be predominantly about the idea that you feel unique as an individual," says Swami.
Self-determination theory suggests that people get tattoos as a way to fulfil their need for autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Tattoos can provide a sense of control over one's body, allow individuals to express their creativity, and foster a sense of connection with others.
36% of the US Armed Forces, including military veterans, have tattoos. Tattoos seem to be more popular with people who attained higher levels of education (32%) compared to those with lower education levels (26%). With 38% of adults aged 30-39 being tatted, older millennials are the most likely to get a tattoo.
Certain tattoo styles that use black and/or grey ink, such as Tribal tattoos, Greyscale tattoos, and American Traditional tattoos (as well as bold lettering or Zodiac tattoos) are known to age well. These different tattoo styles feature bold, detailed linework that is deeply injected into the skin.
Men and women ages 20-39 were most likely to have been tattooed, as were men with lower levels of education, tradesmen, and women with live-out partners.
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.
However, the taste for tattoos is not so strong among their younger brothers and sisters. Gen Z have more conservative views on body art, along with other typical elements of teenage rebellion such as drugs and binge drinking, according to a survey by UK market research firm The Gild.
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.
Psychiatric in-patients with tattoos appear to have a more chaotic and deprived upbringing than non-tattooed controls. This includes more time spent in children's homes, fewer years of education and younger age on leaving home (Reference Buhrich and MorrisBuhrich 1982).
Kertzman et al. (2019) investigated the differences in self-esteem between women with and without tattoos. They determined that tattooed women displayed a greater difference between their real and ideal self, which was interpreted as evidence of their low self-esteem.
Studies about the Healing Power of Tattoos
A new Texas Tech University study suggests that women with multiple tattoos have higher self-esteem, but also more troubled pasts. The study tentatively concludes that tattoos basically serve as a coping mechanism that can successfully raise levels of self-esteem.
Thin lines, shading, small words, and small tattoos all fade much more quickly. Some like the effects age has on their tattoo. However, that tattoo will likely blur together if it's got too much detail. Bolder lines, thicker lines, and larger designs will better stand the test of time.
If you're thinking about getting a tattoo, you can't go wrong with a traditional design. Traditional tattoos are bold, eye-catching, and steeped in history. If you're looking for a timeless tattoo that will never go out of style, a traditional tattoo is the way to go.
A fine line tattoo typically begins to lose its definition after about 15 years. Bigger, bolder lines maintain their look for longer with proper care. At 40, many people will still have their tattoo in great shape, but if not, a touch-up is a great solution.
We found that 63 percent of people with a tattoo smaller than the palm of their hand regret it. However, only 2 percent of people with full-sleeves or longer, regret their tattoo.
It shows that tattoos are a popular form of body art, with the average person having four tattoos.
Tattoos are not going out of style. As stigma wanes and quality standards improve, tattoos are steadily gaining popularity and social acceptance. Tattoos are also known to be part of various cultures going back over 6,000 years, so it is safe to assume that they will never fully go out of style.