For those not part of the “sub-culture”, tattoos can seem like something dangerous, rebellious or even crazy. But sit and talk for two minutes with anyone who’s inked up, and you’ll soon realise they are just normal everyday people. There are a lot of myths about tattoos, and some of these myths go back a long time, but others appear along with new technology or cultural watersheds. In this article, we bust a few of the most common tattoo myths.
Myth: Getting a tattoo can be a health risk
Ok, let’s be clear here; anything can be dangerous if not done correctly. Tattoos are no exception, but as for the myth that you’re risking catching Hepatitis or HIV, well the statistics don’t agree. Licensed tattoo studios must undergo strict health and safety checks by the council, and for this reason, there has NEVER been a single documented case of HIV transmission from a tattoo in New Zealand. MYTH BUSTED.
Myth: Anyone who can draw can tattoo
There was always that one kid in class who was amazing at drawing, but pretty dumb at everything else. He could draw Eddie from Iron Maiden and it looked AWESOME, so one day his friend decides he wants a tattoo. “I’ll do it for free!” Bad idea. Just because someone can draw, doesn’t mean they can tattoo. Without the proper training, equipment, health & safety knowledge or technical ability, all you’re going to end up with is a mess that will have to be covered up by a professional anyway. MYTH BUSTED
Myth: Tattoos only hurt if you’re a pussy
Ask any “tough guy” if his tattoos hurt, and you’ll get a “Hell no!” in response. Maybe even a “I fell asleep during mine!” Here’s the thing- pain is subjective. What hurts one person may not hurt another. People have different sensitivity, especially when it comes to skin. And of course, WHERE you get a tattoo is also a huge factor in how painful it will be. It’s true some people feel nothing, but it’s also true others scream the studio down. You just don’t know which one you’ll be until you go! MYTH BUSTED