1. Tattoos explained
By Dike Granado

2. What is a Tattoo?
A form of body modification whereby indelible ink is inserted into the dermis layer of the skin creating a change of its pigment.

3. History of the Tattoo
The word “tattoo” is said to have two major derivations – from the Polynesian word “ta” which means striking something and the Tahitian word “tatau” which means “to mark something”.
It is believed that this practice has been in existence for nearly 5000 years, based on the 1991 discovery of a 5000 yr old frozen body, found on a mountain between Austria and Italy bearing 57 tattoos. This corpse later became known as Ötzi the Iceman.
Tattooing has been practiced in many cultures and regions across the globe including: Egypt, Japan, China, Polynesia, Africa, South America, Central America, ancient Greece and Rome.

4. Types of Tattoos
According to the American Academy of Dermatology there are five types of tattoos:
Traumatic tattoos
Amateur tattoos
Professional tattoos
Cosmetic tattoos
Medical tattoos

5. Visual examples of the types of Tattoos
Traumatic tattoos
Amateur tattoos

6. Visual examples of the types of Tattoos
Professional tattoos
Cosmetic tattoos

7. Visual examples of the types of Tattoos
Medical tattoos

8. Visual examples of popular Tattoo styles
Abstract
Tribal

9. Visual examples of popular Tattoo styles
Oriental
Celtic

10. Visual examples of popular Tattoo styles
Black & Grey
Calligraphy

11. Visual examples of popular Tattoo styles
Old School
Bio-mechanical

12. Visual examples of popular Tattoo styles
Portrait
Memorial

13. Why do people get tattooed?

14. Persons typically get tattooed for any of the following reasons:
For ornamentation purposes / to express individual style
To be identified or affiliated with a particular group
To honour loved ones
To cover up scar tissue
For cosmetic enhancement purposes
To perform ritualistic practices
As a rite of passage

15. Methods of Removal
Although considered permanent, tattoos can sometimes be removed either fully or partially by the following methods:
Laser removal (most common & effective)
Intense Pulsed Light Therapy
Dermabrasion
Excision

16. Conclusion
If you are considering getting a tattoo for whatever reason, have your mind made up and don’t select a tattoo that you will regret placing permanently on your skin. Remember - the expense and pain associated with removing tattoos is typically greater than the expense and pain associated with applying them.