History of Tattoos

The history of tattoos dates back to the beginning of civilization. Once mankind found effective ways to find food, water, and shelter, self-expression begin. Clothes were made, hair was styled and tattoos were started albeit in rudimentary forms using temporary, natural materials.

As civilization progressed so too did the art of tattooing. The use of materials progressed to using permanent inks and tattooing became integrated in many cultures often signifying the transition into adulthood.

Historically, tattooing has generally been thought of as a tribal ritual rather than an expression of self. However, in western countries, that all changed once sailors begin to explore foreign ports.

In the 40s and 50s sailors collected tattoos from these ports, and other groups soon followed by expressing themselves via tattoos. However, while the art of tattooing was progressing, the social acceptance of those with tattoos was still negative.

In the following decades those with tattoos in America were often thought of as being a biker, outlaw, sailor, or prisoner. However, once mainstream America began being tattooed in the late 80s and early 90s, the social acceptance of tattoos underwent a major transition.

Tattoos were now worn by housewives, preachers, teachers, as well as every other socially respected group. Recently, there have even been a variety popular of television shows produced which focus on the art of tattooing.

In fact, a 2006 a study conducted by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology concluded that 24% of Americans between 18 and 50 are tattooed. The survey also showed that around 36% of Americans between the ages of 18 to 29 have at least one tattoo.

While tattoos are now socially acceptable, they are not yet accepted in the workplace especially in the corporate workplace. This is why many with tattoos have to either cover their tattoos up everyday or have them removed.

If you want to remove a tattoo, you have a variety of options including surgery, laser treatments and using a topical solution such as those listed in our review grid. All of these options have both positive and negative aspects including the high cost and risk of scarring from surgery and laser treatments.