An Overview of the Different Types of Tattoos

Tattoos, contrary to popular belief, actually go back thousands of years and are found all over the world. There are so many different types and innumerable designs with each design carrying some meaning or the other. Tattoos can be broadly classified into six distinct types.

Traumatic Tattoos

These are etched involuntarily either through accident or through some deliberate force. For instance, in an accident if a person is thrown forcefully onto the road resulting in flesh wounds, the asphalt could get rubbed into the wounds and stay there permanently. Another example would be getting stabbed with a pencil or pen where the graphite or ink could get deep under the skin. Gun powder and coal dust getting into open wounds are a few other examples of tattoos through trauma.

Professional Tattoos

These are those that are created by an experienced artist who is not only skilled in the art of tattooing but is also familiar with the rich history of tattoos and understands the meanings behind each design.

Identification Tattoos

A classic example of tattoos being used as an identification mark would be the Maori tattoos. It was the custom of Maori people to get a mark on their face and head at different stages in their life to commemorate any important events or milestones. Looking at a Maori, you could get a wealth of information on the person's ancestral history, family background, current rank and status in society, and also personal accomplishments and skills.

Cosmetic Tattoos

This is a fairly recent trend and are created by artists as a purely cosmetic adornment. These tattoos, in most cases, do enhance the beauty of the person or of a specific body part. A few favourite spots are just above the butt and also around the navel.

Religious Tattoos

It is only Hinduism that actually encourages people to get themselves marked with indelible ink. Although Christianity has no real objection, it is not looked upon very favourably. It is strictly a no-no in Judaism and Islam, and Mormonism does not 'allow' tattoos. In spite of restrictions placed by religious institutions, people still go ahead and get the design they want to advertise their religious affiliation.

Therapeutic Tattoos

Tattoos being used for remedial purposes dates back thousands of years. In 1991, Otzi, the 'Ice Man' was unearthed on the Austrian border. His well preserved body has been carbon dated to 3300 BC. Experts strongly believe that the 57 tattoos found on Otzi's body were placed there to relieve him of aching joints and body pain. Similarly, Egyptian female mummies were found to have several permanent marks on their abdomen and upper thighs pointing to some form of protection during confinement and childbirth.

Globalisation has brought with it considerable inter-cultural influences and a particular design can no longer be pigeon-holed into being a particular type of tattoo or carrying a specific meaning especially in the cities of the world.