Tattoos are not burgers: why not save money?
A tattoo is not a returnable product, it can't be replaced if you don't like it, and it's certainly not a quick service that a random dude at the kitchen table can do. The "my mate will do it cheaper" mentality most often ends in regret, a cover-up tattoo or laser removal, which costs ten times more than the original design itself would have cost in a professional salon.
A tattoo is forever (or at least a very long time)
Your skin is not a proving ground
When an acquaintance offers to "do a home tattoo" for "just a grand," it's worth asking yourself: do you really want to make your own skin the scene of a DIY adventure? Quality, not price, should dominate a decision that will last a lifetime.
Professional tattooist ≠ DIY dude
A professional tattoo artist spends years learning, practicing and developing his or her own style and technique. The best work with hygiene certificates, sterile equipment, premium inks, while consulting with you to make the design truly about you. The majority of those who try at home, on the other hand, "learn" from internet tutorials and have no idea about anatomical placement, line thicknesses or colour bonding.
The most common problems with cheap tattoos
1. Infection - no, it doesn't just happen in horror movies
Tattoos done under non-sterile conditions can lead to serious infections. Hepatitis, staph, skin infections? These are not exaggerations, but real consequences that can be caused by improper disinfection and poor hygiene.
2. Bad pattern - the age of the "just as good" designer is over
There are many groups of so-called "cringe tattoos", the result of cheap attempts. Skewed lines, asymmetrical patterns, blurred contours. And of course there's the classic: "Angel" instead of "Agnel" on your arm.
3. Cover tattoo = double the cost, double the pain
Most flawed tattoos end up with a cover-up, which only a highly skilled professional can aesthetically fix. Not only is it more expensive, it's often more painful and your options are limited as the original pattern frames the repair.
What do you get in return for the price at a professional salon?
Quality materials
A reliable tattoo parlour will use only medical-grade inks, sterile needles, rubber gloves and disposable equipment. No dogged Chinese dyes, no recycled needles.
A competent, experienced artist
Professional tattoo artists have years of work, learning and experience behind them. They know the layers of the skin, working not too deep, not too shallow, but exactly where it's needed. This guarantees durability, colour fidelity and aesthetics.
Advice and aftercare
The professional not only does the job, but guides you through the whole process: helps you choose the sample, position the body, explains the aftercare and even takes you back for a follow-up. A buddy? He'll probably just say 'don't mess with it'.
The lesson: what is cheap at first can cost a lot more later - in money, time and confidence.
Why is it not worth "getting it right"?
1. Lack of reliability
The familiar may be enthusiastic today, but unavailable tomorrow. What if there's a problem with the tattoo? But a professional salon will guarantee the work.
2. Legality issues
An official tattoo parlour has licences, is a registered business and is regulated. An acquaintance in the apartment? Working in the black, no liability.
3. Prestige and self-esteem
Your body is one of your most valuable "possessions". If you deserve quality clothes and good food, you should also choose a premium "design" for your skin - not the cheapest option.
source of images: Pinterest
What should you look for when choosing a tattoo parlour?
Portfolio: check out their work! The style, detail and elaboration says a lot.
Sterile environment: ask how they disinfect, what tools they use.
Communication: a good tattoo artist listens to you, asks questions, gives advice. They don't just doodle on you.
Reviews, ratings: read other people's experiences - Google, Facebook, Insta.
Your body is not a touchstone - choose only quality tattoos!
Tattooing is an art. And like all art, it takes time, skill and respect. "Dude cheap fixes" rarely work well in the long run. If you really want to please yourself, if you want something that reflects your individuality, don't bargain.
Don't go for the cheapest! Choose the best! Your body deserves it.
