A tattoo is a permanent body art adorned by ink that is getting increasingly popular. As per estimates, over 50% of our country’s population under 40 have got their bodies inked. However, tattoos are not the only trend right now. Piercings have also gained traction among people of different age groups. Below, we have listed the types of tattoos and piercings, their side effects, and tips to follow before and after getting them.

Types of tattoos
Tattoos started as a form of personal identification among tribes, but the culture spread extensively over the decades, giving birth to diverse designs. Below is a list of the most popular styles:

• Traditional
  The traditional form of tattoo art, known as old school or classic, is famous for its bright exquisite colors, bold lines, and specific designs like roses, anchors, and stunning lady heads. They are aesthetically pleasing and age well.
• Watercolor
  This style appears to be trending among millennials. Watercolor tattoos are made using subtle color gradients that provide a more gradual color fade-out effect. However, they are not as long-lasting.
• Realistic
  A part of the classic genre, this style found its way into the world of tattoos recently. It boasts spectacular designs of celebrity portraits and realistic natural depictions using gray and black.
• Tribal
  Tribal tattoos, popularly known as indigenous body art, have existed for thousands of years. They are based on the culture and traditions of aboriginal communities across the globe.
• Neo-traditional
  This design retains certain features of the traditional style, such as vibrant colors and extreme line works. However, it has a distinctive illustrative quality with a more extensive color palette and many motifs. The designs are known for their detailing and use of natural imagery like flora and fauna.

Side effects of getting a tattoo
A tattoo involves inserting ink into the second layer of the skin dermis using a tiny tool. Such a procedure can contribute to several side effects, such as:

• Allergic reactions to the dye
• Inflammation in the tattoo site
• Different types of skin infections
• Overgrowths of the scar tissue
• Blood-borne diseases like HIV, hepatitis B, and tetanus

Care tips to follow before and after getting a tattoo
Once you have decided to get a tattoo, follow these tips:

• Decide which part of your body to get tattooed (since it is permanent, be 100% sure).
• Visit a tattoo parlor that has a proper license.
• Ensure the facility is clean and emphasizes hygiene.
• Ensure the ink artist uses a new pair of gloves.
• The inserting tool must be new and brought out of a sealed package.

After getting a tattoo, follow these tips for the best results:

• Avoid touching the tattoo.
• Carefully wash the area with soap and water.
• Avoid sun exposure.
• Use doctor-recommended products on your skin.

Types of piercings
If you are a piercing enthusiast, you should know about different types of piercings. Some of the most popular styles are as follows:

• Helix
  This piercing is done on the upper part of the ear. A pair of tiny studs are placed in the area with other traditional ear piercings.
• Conch piercing
  It is an ear piercing performed on the rear portion of the inner year. Since it is forward facing, this piercing is easily visible.
• Tongue
  Traditional tongue piercings included a single bar pierced through the tongue. Other designs included web, snake eyes, and double tongue.
• Snake-bite
  This piercing reflects the look of a snake bite as two studs are placed on either side of the bottom lip.
• Eyebrow
  As the name suggests, the piercing is typically done on the eyebrow (usually the tail portion).
• Nose
  This piercing is popular these days, featuring a stud on either side of the nose. Nose piercing is traditional in some parts of the world.
• Belly-button
  It involves piercing a bar or rings either on the navel’s top or bottom area.

Side effects of getting a piercing on the body
Adorning your body with piercings can pose several health risks. Some possible side effects include:

• Bacterial infection
• Sepsis
• High fever
• Excessive swelling in the pierced area
• Bleeding caused by damaged blood vessels in the area

Safety tips to follow after getting a piercing
Keep these points in mind after the session is complete:

• Clean your new piercing at least twice a day with a saltwater solution.
• Before touching the piercing, wash your hands with lukewarm water and antibacterial soap.
• Only use a clean and soft material to wash the area.

Tattoos and piercings are a form of self-expression. However, ensure to learn about the side effects of these procedures and follow the tips on how to care for them for the best results. With strict precautions and after-care hygiene, you can avoid side effects.