Western History of Tattooing and Tattoo Removal
Butterfly Tattoos
Skull Tattoos
Angel Tattoos
Tattooing in the west had its origins in Polynesia, after James Cook, a British explorer sailed to Tahiti in 1769. The Tahitians used the term “tatatau” or tattau, meaning to strike and this became the modern term “tattoo”. The art of tattoos spread rapidly through sailors, coal miners and explorers. These men had tattoos of minor’s lamp or an anchor which highlighted the danger of their professions and they were often placed on their arms. Tattoos spread throughout Europe and became a fashion statement.
Over 40 million Americans have at least 1 tattoo. Tattoos for some, like the sailors or coal miners are representative. Many prisoners and gang members often use tattooing to reflect their criminal behavior. It may show their gang affiliation or some gang members use a tear to show a friend who was killed.
Tattooing has been very common in the U.S. military and British Armed Forces. Tattoos often display the individual’s military unit or a battle they fought in. Most of us have personally seen a tattoo on an older military individual.
In many parts of the world tattooing has grown in popularity. It has experienced explosive growth in North and South America as well as Europe and Japan. With that resurgence of tattooing has come an arrival of new artists into the industry, many of whom have technical and fine arts training.
Formal interest in the artistry of tattooing has become prominent in the 1990’s – 21st century. Tattooing today has taken on a modern day art feel, having their own art exhibits. Display of the tattoo artist work is often seen throughout society, in art shows, exhibits, and almost every venue imaginable.
It has been estimated that in America close to 50 percent of those who have received a tattoo have inquired about tattoo removal. The words tattoo removal has become a common place word in today’s society. Tattoo removal options are many, ranging from a sophisticated laser tattoo removal to in home tattoo removal creams. The most effective means of tattoo removal is laser tattoo removal which can be painful and expensive. Tattoo removal cream is an option that is controversial as to its effectiveness. It can be done in the privacy of your home and the cost is substantially less than laser tattoo removal. Other options are surgery where the tattoo is surgically removed. There is also an option where the skin is sanded to remove the tattoo. Another possibility is to simply do a tattoo cover up using make up or clothing.
