We're Living In The Future-You Can Now Put DNA Into Tattoos

Nail Tattoos 101

Move over cuticle tattoos, this trend is the next evolution of tiny hand tattoos. Nail tattoos are exactly what they sound like, but there's some more info people should know before getting them. Here's everything you need to know about nail tattoos, the latest tattoo trend.

Location
Did you know you can actually tattoo your fingernails? Well, you can. Other trends such as cuticle tattoos were on the area just around the nail, but this trend takes place on top of the nail itself.

Pain
As painful as it sounds to get your nails tattooed, it’s actually not that bad. Most people who've gotten them say they're pretty painless. That makes sense since your nail doesn't have any nerves. At most you'll feel some small fibrations on your fingers.

Time
Small tattoos take more time to complete than people realize. The exact time all depends on how detailed the design is and how many fingers you're getting done, but the most amount of time goes into the consultation and planning. It should also be noted that these aren't permanent. As your nails grow out so will the ink. They should last around 6 weeks, but it all depends on your individual nail growth.

Design
Nails are pretty small, so the design has to be too. Most nail tattoos fall into the minimalist style out of sheer necessity. Designs like letters, dots, lines, or simple images like flowers are popular.

Artists
This is a fairly new tattoo trend. So new in fact that only a few locations in the world probably do. If you’re looking for a local artist it’s best to find one that has done it before, or who at least has experience doing tiny tattoos. There's a risk of going too deep which can have serious consequences.


Conclusion
This tattoo trend certainly is crazy, but it’s definitely fun.  If you’d like to learn more or want to book an appointment feel free to contact us or stop by our downtown Toronto tattoo shop.

Cuticle Tattoos 101

Yet another tattoo trend we can credit Rihanna for bringing into popularity. The Queen of Cool first sported cuticle tattoos back in 2013, and since then they have taken over Instagram. These tiny tattoos are just the latest in tattoo trends.

Location
The name says a lot, but cuticle tattoos aren’t actually on the cuticle. Rather, they’re placed around the nail. People usually opt to stick close to the nail but some people have taken to extending the design up the fingers and even across the whole hand. One choice people interested in these tattoos have to make it how many fingers they want to be done. Some get a few, some get only one hand, and others get them all done. It’s all up to you!

Pain
Here’s the bad news- the hands hurt to get tattoos. That pain only increases for that area on the finger. Hands and fingers are mostly bone and skin, with very little fat to cushion. The area near the nail is even more bony and sensitive. Ever gotten a hangnail? Imagine that pain times a thousand.

Time
Since most cuticle tattoos are small and have simple designs, the process can be done quickly. Make sure that you find an artist skilled in small tattoos though so that they don’t make any mistakes and can work in the small area.

Design
There is no single design for cuticle tattoos. Some popular designs are geometric shapes, lines, dots, and henna-style designs. Due to the small space simpler designs tend to work best.

Aftercare
It’s super important to follow all aftercare instructions. Since your hands usually come in contact with germs and objects first, it’s important that you keep your new ink clean and dry.

Conclusion
Cuticle tattoos act like jewelry, elevating whatever outfit one is wearing. They can hurt though, and it’s pretty costly for a small tattoo. Some people are opting for alternatives like temporary tattoos or nail art to get the design. If you want to book an appointment please contact us today!

Nose Tattoos 101

Some tattoo trends are more out there than other’s, and this is one of them. Facial tattoos have a long history, but now some people are getting just nose tattoos and this trend is taking off. Demons, skulls, and tribal ink, this location is the newest hotspot.

Who’s Getting Them?
Right now this trend is pretty limited to those into body modification and hardcore tattooist. Facial tattoos are extremely taboo, especially in Western countries. They’re often associated with criminals and jails. Some people have embraced facial tattoos, but get them in more discrete locations where they can be hidden like on the skull, behind the ear, or along the hairline. But there’s no hiding a nose tattoo.

Controversy
Tattoos aren’t really in the taboo zone anymore. Most of society and most work places are pretty accepting of them as long as they aren’t of anything offensive. But facial tattoos are still pretty taboo. So if you’re interested in a nose tattoo just know that you may not get a job because of it.

Pain and Time
The bad news about nose tattoos is that they will hurt a lot. Even people that have multiple tattoos say they’re extremely painful. They compare it to getting punching in the face with a sharp object repeatedly. If you’ve ever had your nose pierced, just image that pain but times a thousand.

The other bad news about nose tattoos is that they aren’t quick. While they’re usually pretty small, the shape and curves of the nose can take awhile for the design to be completed.

Design
Due to the shape of noses, some designs look better than others. Skulls and demons seem to be popular and compliment the nose well. Tribal designs, like Maori and Samoan tattoos, are also popular. Some people are doing more geometrical designs, with straight lines and triangles.

Artist
Any tattoo should be done by professionals, but especially facial tattoos. There are no hiding facial tattoos, especially nose ones. Make sure you find an artist that has done face tattoos before and is skilled in the style you like. Look at portfolios and discuss the design beforehand. We should note that not every tattoo shop will do facial tattoos. Some places find them too controversial so they refuse them.

Contact us or visit our tattoo shop to talk about getting a tattoo today.

Helix Tattoos 101

Tiny tattoos became a hit trend in 2016. People were sporting them behind their ear and on their fingers. In 2017 the tiny tattoo has found a new home- the helix.

Placement

The helix is the outer cartilage of the ear. Because this location is narrow, smaller vertical tattoos are placed here. Helix tattoos have quickly taken the place of helix, cuff, and cartilage piercings. They’re the updated, fresher version of the behind the ear tattoos everyone was getting last year.

Design

Designs for this area are fairly limited just by the size and shape that the ear allows for. Most people opt for small, minimal designs. Flowers are by far the most popular design style but others are opting for dot work, stars, geometrical shapes, wording or paw prints. There is also the option of extending a helix tattoo to other parts of the ear for more room.

Artist

You should always go to a skilled artist for a tattoo but especially for a small one. People often think since it’s smaller they can go cheaper but that’s a mistake. Tiny tattoos are harder than larger pieces since there is no room for error. Getting the right amount of detail in such a tight space takes practice. Make sure to look through artist’s portfolios to make sure they’ve done tiny tattoos before.

Aftercare

Aftercare is extremely important for helix tattoos. The ear has limited blood flow meaning healing will take longer. A helix piercing takes longer than a lobe piercing to heal so expect the same for tattooing. Make sure to follow all of the aftercare advice you’re given. If there are any additional care tips your artist will let you know.

Life Time

Here’s the thing about Helix tattoos- this trend is so new artists can tell you how long they’ll last. All tattoos fade but as the ear gets more sunlight it’s possible these will fade faster. Be warned that ink may bleed as it ages too. The tissue on the ear is thin so the ink doesn’t get held in place as well. Keep this in mind when selecting a design, as you don’t want to end up with a blob.

Pain

Cartilage piercings are some of the most painful so it should be no surprise that helix tattoos are painful too. Piercers are relatively quickly but no matter how small the tattoo is, a helix tattoo won’t be over in a minute. The end result will look cute but just be prepared for the pain.

Conclusion

Helix tattoos have become a trend for a reason- they’re so cool looking. Make sure you find a good artist and do research before hand. If you’re still unsure, helix piercings are always an option as an alternative. Contact us today to get a helix tattoo that you won’t be able to stop Instagraming!

7 Questions People With Tattoos Always Get Asked

1.    “Did it hurt?”

The simple answer to this question is, “duh”. All tattoos hurt, but the amount of pain depends on a lot of things. Some locations on the body hurt more. Design, size, the length of time, and personal pain tolerance are also factors.

2.    “Don’t you respect yourself?”

This question is so rude and judgmental it almost doesn’t even deserve a response. People need to let go of the outdated thinking that tattoos are related to rebellion and criminals.

3.    “Do you regret them?"

Some people do regret their tattoos, but most don’t. The longer you live with a tattoo the more meaning it takes on. It becomes less about the design, or even the original meaning, and becomes a marker for who you were during the period of time when you got it done.

4.    “How will you feel about then when you’re old?”

People’s bodies change when they age. Skin gets looser, wrinkles take over, and all of this does impact a tattoo. Maybe your tattoos will be faded and distorted by wrinkles but how great will it be to reminisce about your youth when you’re older?

5.    “What does your tattoo mean?”

Here’s the thing- sometimes tattoos don’t have meaning behind them. I know, shocking right? Sometimes they do, but not everyone is willing to share those stories. It’s ultimately up to the person who has the tattoo if they’re willing to share the story behind their tattoo (if there is one). If they don’t want to then respect that. 

6.    “What do your parents and grandparents think about them?”

This question assumes that everyone’s parents and grandparents think the same. Some parents are against them, other’s annoyed, some amused, and some for them. The same with grandparents. We aren’t the first generation to get tattooed so chances are that some parents and grandparents are tattooed themselves.

7.    “Would you ever get them removed?”

Tattoo removal is expensive, painful, and not guaranteed to work. Asking someone if they’re getting a tattoo removed implies that you think they should. If someone does want to change their tattoo there are tons of options out there today from removal to cover-ups.

Contact a Toronto Tattoo Shop to book your next appointment. 

Jobs and Tattoos

Society’s perception of tattoos has changed a lot through time. Today, tattoos no longer signal a rebel. It’s trendy to have one, a firm part of popular culture rather than a sign of counterculture. Even with these changes, people worry about how tattoos will affect their ability to get jobs.

Changing Attitudes

Tattoos are used as a form of self-expression. More industries are accepting of them than ever before. Many young professionals, 86%, don’t think that tattoos or piercings will reduce their chances of getting a job. They’re right often. Attire and grooming are shown to be far more important influences.

Limiting Attitudes

Not every workplace shares the new changing attitude about tattoos. Hiring managers might not hire someone with piercings or tattoos. This isn’t necessarily due to personal view, but rather they worry about how customers will perceive workers with tattoos. This concern is valid too since consumers have shown a preference for non-tattooed front-line staff.

Factors

In a lot of workplaces, there isn’t a hard and fast rule on tattoos (although be sure to check out the company dress code policy to be sure). Instead, the size, placement, and design make a huge impact on whether they’ll be allowed or not. Smaller tattoos, like wrist or finger tattoos, tend to be accepted but facial tattoos are usually a hard no. Employers also reject offensive tattoos like swear words, racist symbols, and nude images.

What To Do

Consider the location, size, and design of a tattoo when you get it. Don’t ever let a job dictate your self-expression but keep employment in mind. Most tattoos can easily be covered up by clothing so don’t worry. When in doubt ask your boss, in most cases it should be fine.

Contact a Toronto Tattoo Shop today to get a new tattoo that everyone will love- even your boss.

Least Painful Places To Get Tattooed

Tattoos hurt- there’s just no getting around that fact. But if you’re someone that really wants a tattoo yet has a low pain tolerance, consider these locations. According to professional tattoo artists and those who have tattoos themselves, these are the least painful places to get inked.

Thigh

The thigh is cushioned by fat and muscle making it one of the least painful locations. Bonus, the area is large so you can get a big tattoo here if you want.

Butt

While not the most popular choice out there, the butt is pretty painless. The area doesn’t have a lot of nerves and it’s covered in a good layer of fat. The most painful part about a butt tattoo is probably the recovery.

Calf

The calf is a popular choice for tattoos. It’s not too painful due to the love level of nerves and there’s good muscle there to cushion it. Stay away from the back of the knee though as this is one of the most painful places.

Upper Arm & Outer Shoulder

The outer shoulder and upper arms are a very popular place to get inked. The area is large, easy to cover, and not that painful. It’s also a great place to start getting a tattoo if you want a whole sleeve.

Upper Back

The upper back has its pros and cons. It’s not that painful but you have to be careful to avoid the bones in the area, like the shoulder blades and spine. You also have to be sure you have someone help you clean and moisturize it.

Forearms

The forearms are pretty visible but they aren’t that painful. The muscle in the area provides good cushioning. Be warned though that the inner arm can be significantly more painful so if you’re getting a wrap-around tattoo you’ll experience that.

Ear

Behind the ear, tattoos are hugely popular right now. It’s easy to see why- they’re small, cute, and easy to hide. Most skull and facial tattoos hurt a lot but behind the ear is pretty painless. Even if it does hurt most tattoos back there are small so it will be over quickly.

Wrist

Toronto tattoo shops get a lot of inner wrist tattoo requests. The area isn’t boney so they’re pretty painless. Just make sure you can have tattoos at your job because these are pretty hard to hide.

Neck

Tattoos on the back of the neck are popular among both men and women. The area can easily be hidden by hair or clothing making it a nice option. It’s also not that painful as long as you steer clear of the spine.

Hips

As long as you avoid the hipbone, hip tattoos are one of the least painful spots. They’ve lost some of their popularity recently, thanks to being associated with the tramp stamp, but people are still getting them.

Contact a Toronto Tattoo Shop today to set up an appointment in our downtown Toronto tattoo shop.

Best Mental Health Tattoos to Get This Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a month dedicated to shining light on mental health issues and illness. The goal of Mental Health Awareness Month is to create solidarity among people who suffer from mental illnesses and to reduce the stigma surrounding them. Multiple celebrities in recently years have opened up about their own mental health struggles, which has greatly contributed to this cause.

There’s no better way to commemorate your journey or recovery from mental health issues than through a tattoo. Here are a few ideas others have gotten to mark their mental health battles.

Semicolon: Semicolon tattoos started because of Project Semicolon, an organization that aims to create solidarity and end suicide. A semicolon is used when an author decided against ending a sentence and chose to continue it. Much like someone choosing to continue life over suicide.

Chemicals: Chemical imbalances in the brain are thought to be a big cause of mental illness. Specifically, lower levels of serotonin and dopamine are thought to cause depression. People have taken to reclaiming these chemicals by getting molecules for them tattooed on their body.

Motivational Words: Simple motivational words like “breathe”, “fearless”, or “strong” can be enough for some people. They are permanent reminds for those that need them. If a word resonates with you and helps you get through your mental illness then consider tattooing it. 

Carpe Diem: While carpe diem, Latin for “seize the day”, has become a bit of a cliché the message is still a good one. If you feel stuck by your mental illness this phrase could be what you need to nudge you to keep moving.

Anchor: With mental illness, it can feel like you are being dragged away. An anchor is a symbolic way to keep grounded. Anchors keep ships from drifting away and it can do the same for you.

Inspiration Quote: Sometimes a quote touches people deeply. It can be their motivation to keep going. Whether it’s from Harry Potter or poetry if a quote inspires you and helps you through your mental health battles it might be worth getting it tattooed.

Birds: Birds represent freedom, which is a positive message for people that have recovered from mental health problems. It symbolically shows that there is a light at the end of the dark tunnel.

Scars: Self-harming scars can be a lasting representation of a dark time. People have now taken to incorporating these scars into tattoo designs. This beautiful way of reclaiming them turns them from something dark and ugly into something beautiful and inspirational.

Other: Whatever speaks to you, whether it’s a word, a quote, or a symbolic image, it would make a beautiful tattoo. Tattoos are a great way to create permanent reminders about life and the mental health issues. Contact our Toronto Tattoo Shop to discuss getting a mental health related tattoo this Mental Health Awareness Month.

Freckle Tattoos 101

Freckles were once a prime target for bullying. But today, they have become so popular that people have taken to getting them tattooed on. This rising tattoo trend, called “freckling”, has become the latest hit.

History

It’s hard to point to the start of most trends. Montreal-based cosmetic tattoo artist Gabrielle Rainbow is usually given credit to this trend. After hearing about her friend growing tired of drawing on freckles Rainbow got the idea of tattooing them on. After trying them out on herself she now has a long list of clients begging for this trend.

What Are They?

Cosmetic tattooing uses semi-permanent ink. Dots are placed on the face in a natural looking pattern. People can get a light dusting or a full face. They can last anywhere from 2-3 years but it depends on the person.

Why Get Them?

People who have freckles might spend so much effort covering them up. It’s people who don’t have them that have flocked to this trend. Most cosmetic tattoo artists say their main clients are people who get light freckling in the sun but want it all year round. Often time people bring in pictures of their favorite celebrity for inspiration (Kylie Jenner is a favorite). When done right it’s impossible to tell them apart from real ones.

Disadvantages of Them

There’s often a rift between tattoo artists and cosmetic tattoo artist. Tattoo artists are hesitant about this trend but say it’s safe. Be warned, semi-permanent tattoos don’t last forever so they aren’t always worth their price tag. Make sure you find a reputable cosmetic tattoo artist that has done freckling before. Otherwise, you’ll end up with wonky, fake looking freckles.

Conclusion

Freckle tattoos might go out of style but luckily they aren’t permanent. Plus, you’ll look super cute while you have them. Contact our Toronto Tattoo Shop if you want to take the leap from semi-permanent tattoos to permanent ones.