Tattoos have been around for ages. Even many ancient tribes used tattooing for religious or medical reasons. Tattoos didn’t really hit Western culture until the 1700s, however, when sailors drew inspiration from the cultures they encountered on their travels and came home with tattoos.
Even though tattoos have been around for so long, it seems that each generation has their own opinion of them. Generally, you’ll see two sides of the coin: either people see them as a form of self-expression, or they feel they are unprofessional. Here, we dig deeper into the Millennial generation’s view on permanent ink.
Millennials’ View on Tattoos
In general, Millennials have a much more favorable view on tattoos than older living generations do. Millennials, like many other generations, view tattoos as a form of art and self-expression. They may also use them in remembrance of people they’ve lost or struggles they’ve overcome. In addition, more Millennials have tattoos than the generations before them.
While tattoos are more popular among the Millennial generation than others, most Millennials are conscious of their tattoo placement and prefer to keep their tattoos in areas they can hide under their clothing if necessary. So even though they are more likely to have tattoos, they are still attentive to the way others perceive them.
How Many Millennials Have Tattoos?
As of 2010, nearly 40% of Millennials had a tattoo, according to PEW Research. Compare that to 33%of Gen X, 15% of Baby Boomers, and just 6% of the Silent generation, and it’s easy to see that tattoos have become more acceptable over the years.
For most Millennials, one tattoo simply isn’t enough. About half of Millennials with tattoos have two to five, and 18% have six or more. Of those with tattoos, 70 percent say that their ink is hidden beneath clothing.
Like other generations, men and women are equally likely to have tattoos. However, men are more likely to have visible tattoos (23% compared to 13% of women), which is a trend consistent across other generations.
In the Millennial generation, those who have not attended college are more likely to have tattoos than Millennials with some form of college education (47% compared to 30%).
Although democrats and liberals are more likely to have a tattoo somewhere on their bodies, Millennials in general do not use tattoos as a form of political expression.
Why the Rise in Tattoo Popularity?
There’s no saying exactly what has contributed to the rise in tattoo popularity given that there are likely numerous factors involved. However, some theorize that media has aided in promoting tattoo popularity through shows like Ink Master and Miami Ink. In fact, when LA Ink premiered in 2007, the show was the highest-rated series premiere on TLC for adults ages 18 to 34 at the time.
Not only have these shows brought tattoos into the discussion more, but they’ve likely shown Millennials that getting a tattoo isn’t as scary as it sounds.
The Reality of Visible Tattoos
Even though tattoos are becoming more acceptable, studies still show that people with visible tattoos are often hired at a lower pay rate than those who don’t have tattoos showing. In fact, 86% of students with visible tattoos feel it impacts their ability to get a job. Eighty-nine percent of students who are considering tattoos will think about its placement and how that will affect their job options.
Interestingly, even though undergraduates understand this trend, almost half of them are considering getting a new tattoo, says Questia. However, the majority will get inked up on areas of the body that aren’t visible as to not affect their employment.
So while many people realize that tattoos can affect their professional relationships, they also want to use ink to express themselves. As the Millennial generation ages and overtakes higher positions in the business world, we may just see a changing perception about tattoos in business.
Thinking About Getting a Tattoo?
If you’re a millennial thinking about visiting the tattoo shop, there are a couple of tips to keep in mind:
- Know what you want before you go. Although tattoos don’t have to be permanent (you can get them removed with laser tattoo removal services), they are intended to be. Don’t rush into a tattoo design just because you want a tattoo. Think about your design for some time. If you go into the shop without knowing what you want, that’s a bad sign.
- Do your research. Not all tattoo parlors are created equal. Research the one you want to go to, and read reviews from past clients. ALWAYS make sure you’re going to a tattoo parlor that uses sterilized needles. Be sure to look at the tattoo artist’s portfolio, too. This will give you a good idea of their style and whether or not it matches the type of tattoo you want to get.
- Remember: cheaper isn’t always better. If you’re going to get a tattoo, don’t skimp on quality for a cheaper price. When it comes to body art, you really do get what you pay for.
- Start small. If this is your first tattoo, don’t be afraid to start small so you can get an idea of how it feels and how your body reacts to the process and the ink.
- Consider your timing. Water and sun exposure can damage a brand new tattoo, so avoid getting a tattoo right before heading off for a weekend getaway on the beach.
- Don’t panic! Although tattoos can be painful, it’s likely not as bad as you think it will be. Don’t psych yourself out, or it will ruin the experience.
Even when people follow all these tips, not everyone is completely confident in their ink. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, tattoo removals among Millennials has spiked by almost 46% in the last few years. If you’ve found that your visible tattoos are affecting your employment, or you just don’t like the design anymore, you may consider laser tattoo removal.