Getting a tattoo is a big decision

. For many, it's an expression of self

. For others, it's a way to show permanent membership in something bigger than themselves - a club, a military organization, fraternity and so on

. The reasons for getting a tattoo are as varied as the kinds of tattoos available themselves

. From cultural requirements to personal choice, body art can say a lot

. Here are some of the top concerns people face as they make the decision to get a tattoo or learn to care for one after it's done: Why get a tattoo? Many people view the body as their own personal canvas

. It's meant to be decorated and painted

. Others simply want a single tattoo to show their affiliation with a military organization or what have you

. For others still, a tattoo is a cultural requirement, a rite of passage

. In most locations, however, getting a tattoo is a personal choice and one that for the most part is permanent

. Before you dive in, ask yourself if you're getting something you can live with - forever

. If so, have fun

. Get a tat you enjoy and do take care of it during the healing process

. How do you heal a tattoo site? Generally the tattoo artist who puts the tattoo on you will offer advice for healing the site without damaging the ink

. Hand lotions that don't include fragrance and even antibiotic ointments are good choices if no other advice is available

. Do take care of the site and remember it's never a good idea to pick at a tattoo scab though

. Keep this in mind as it can wreck the end product

. Will tattoos cover scars? Depending on the style and type chosen and the skill of the artist, yes

. The area must be healed first, however

. Talk over the idea with a skilled artist and look at possible tattoos that will work

. Does tattooing cause a lot of pain? In general, no

. If the equipment is good and the artist even better, it will only sting for a little while

. Can a bad tattoo be fixed? The answer here is yes and no

. It really depends on what's wrong with the existing tattoo and what you want done

. A good tattoo artist is the best place to start for advice on this

. Can a tattoo be hidden? Yes

. Even if the tattoo is in a location that can't be covered by clothing, there are makeup products available that can help hide one from view for special occasions

. The effectiveness will, of course, depend on the tattoo in question and the quality of the product purchased

. Getting a tattoo can be a fun and rewarding experience

. A skilled body artist can add a piece of personal art that will last a lifetime

. Just be certain who you go to is skilled, you like what you're getting and that you take proper care of the tattoo site during the healing process

. Body art is an age-old practice that stretches across all boundaries of the world

. Whether you're getting a tattoo to express an artistic flare, to show affiliation or for cultural reasons, they are art that's worn forever

.