When you are the type of person to enter the world of tattoos and piercings, you don’t worry about being able to find a salon that offers you some really satisfying body art. It’s nice to have that kind of “input” when inspiration strikes. For others, however, especially if it’s their first foray into body art, knowing where to get a great tattoo or expert piercing can be incredibly difficult.
Now, there are probably some of you who might find the idea of having a hard time getting a tattoo or piercing silly. After all, there was a time when you could get some pretty fancy ink at a carnival while your kids were eating cotton candy and playing games. Times have changed, and with these changes come new standards in health and safety.
There is also a much greater fascination and acceptance for body art than there used to be. Now, it’s not uncommon to see soccer moms sporting some ink or a cute nose ring. You can even see some ink peeking out of your geography teacher’s rolled up sleeve. There was a time when body art was for society’s outliers, but that’s not the case. This, of course, creates a golden opportunity for artists looking to make significant financial gains by providing a welcoming service.
We return, once again, to the possible newcomer looking to get a tattoo or piercing. If you are going to find a reputable salon or artist, where should you start?
Here are some secrets to finding the best destination for tattoos and piercings:
Check online – As is the case with anything you’re curious about these days, the first place you want to look for reputable salons is online. Check beauty salon websites, online business reviews, and even public health records to see how a place compares.
Asking people about their body art – If you move a “tat” or a piercing, nothing is cooler than when someone asks you where you got your sick ink. Ask your friends, family and co-workers where they would recommend you go.
Have a design or piercing in mind – If you know what you want in advance, you can determine if a salon / artist can offer you what you want. If you are unhappy with the process they go through, this may not be the place to go.
Visit salons / stores and check them out – Just because you enter does not mean you have to “buy” something. Take a look around the store, look at their photos of past customers, ask questions, and get to know the place.
“Interview” artists – If you get a chance, talk to some artists and see if you click with them. Find out about their background, their work process, and even the supplies they use. If an artist is unwilling to “talk business” with you, go elsewhere.
Finding the best tattoo and piercing destination for your first or 100th body art piece shouldn’t be a stressful time. You should enjoy the idea that you are doing something that has a bit of an edge, a lot of coolness, and definitely makes you unique.