There are many arguments for and against getting tats. One of the classic arguments against getting tats is that they will be inappropriate or look bad when you get older. Is this a good argument?

It wasn't that long ago that getting ink was actually considered really rebellious and something done by people on the fringes of society. You know - bikers, sailors and gangs. That has obviously changed. Now days, everyone from teens to adults are getting them. That doesn't mean that someone isn't still wary - particularly mom or dad.

So, what about this argument that you'll regret getting a tattoo when you get older? Is it true? Well, every situation is obviously different. That being said, there is something to be said on both side of the argument. Some might matter to you, but then again they might not.

Let's consider the downside. First off, what happens when you age? A tattoo is going to fade and it is going to run as your skin loses elasticity. In short, it is not going to look "tight" after a bit. A tattoo that is not tight generally doesn't look particularly good on a person - young or older.

The secondary, unstated, argument against getting tats is they will be inappropriate as you get older. For instance, most corporate jobs frown upon employees with tats. Also, what about if you have kids? How are you going to keep your kids from getting them if you have one?

As you can imagine, there are arguments against these points. First, nobody really looks great when they get older. I'm talking about into your 60s, so what is a tat really going to matter? Second, you can have tats redone if they start looking bad. Third, you can get tats in areas that you can cover with business clothing, so a corporate job really isn't a problem because they will never see your tats. Fourth, you can tell your kids that they can get tats, but only after they turn 18 or 21 or however long you can control them.

Getting a tat is fairly trendy these days, but it is still a serious decision. It is important to think through the fact you will not only have a tat today, but for the rest of your life. Yes, you can get it removed, but that is expensive and painful. You are far better off making sure that this is something you are comfortable with now and later.