Tattoos and Tattoo Removal History in the West

Tattoos in the west had its origins in Polynesia, after James Cook, a British explorer made a trip to Tahiti in 1769.  The Tahitians used the term “tatatau” or tattau, meaning to strike and this became today’s term “tattoo”.  Tattooing  became fashionable among Europeans, starting with the sailors and 18th century explorers.  Sailors and later, coal miners, both had risky professions.  This would then explain the almost amulet-like use of anchors or minor’s lamp tattoos on the men’s arms.  From the sailors, the practice of tattooing later spread to many Western societies.

It is estimated that 40 to 50 million Americans have at least one tattoo.  A distinctive tattoo for some, like the sailors or coal miners are representative.  For example, many prisoners often use their tattoos to reflect their criminal behavior.  It may show their gang affiliation or some gang members use a tear to show a friend who was killed.

Members of the U.S. military have a well-established and longstanding history of tattooing to indicate military units, battles, kill, etc., a custom  which remains popular among older Americans.  Tattooing is also common in the British Armed Forces.

Tattooing has experienced a rebirth in popularity in different parts of the world, particularly North and South America, Japan and Europe.  With that resurgence of tattooing has come an influx of new artists into the industry, many of whom have technical and fine arts training.

Formal interest in the artistry of tattooing has become very prominent in today’s society.  Contemporary art exhibitions and visual art institutions have featured tattoos as art through such means as displaying tattoo flash, exploring the works of tattoo artists, or incorporating examples of body art into [mainstreameveryday] exhibits.

With this growth has come tattoo regret where it is estimated that half of those receiving tattoos today live to regret their decision and are seeking a tattoo removal.   There are many tattoo removal methods that are used today.   Laser tattoo removal is effective yet normally comes with pain and can be quite expensive.  Tattoo removal cream is an option that is controversial as to its effectiveness.  It can be done in the privacy of your home and the cost is substantially less than laser tattoo removal.   Surgery is also a possibility for smaller tattoos.   Not happy with any of these choices, how about sanding the skin?  There is still one more option, simply cover up the tattoo, a nice simple tattoo cover up with clothes or make up.