Getting inked has become a style statement, and the next generation is all set to decorate their body parts with tattoos, including the face, back, hands, and the stomach. But, tattoos on stomach are increasingly becoming the first choice for body art lovers, right from the young college crowd to celebrities. If you too wish to join the bandwagon, then you can learn more about it in the following article.
A tattoo is a design created by inserting dark and endurable ink into the outer layer of the skin, also known as the dermis. This ink changes the pigment, that is the color of skin, to the one you want. Inking is essentially a form of body art which is used to decorate the body with a variety of designs. It’s believed that this practice originated in Japan where the indigenous Ainu people used to paint their faces as a part of their tradition. From there, it spread to neighboring countries and was practiced worldwide.
In ancient times, tribal communities used to paint their body or get a tattoo to distinguish themselves from other clans. But today, people express their attitude through body art, and the kind of tattoos they wear defines their personality. Earlier, people used to wear tattoos on their hands or back, but as their popularity increased, different places to get inked on the body emerged. Stomach tattoos have become favorite and popular due to the large canvas available on the stomach area. Another reason for their popularity is that it could be displayed or hidden whenever wanted. Tattoos on the lower stomach could be easily hidden under clothes during college or work hours, and could be shown off in parties by wearing short tops, low waist skirts, or jeans.
For Women
Women generally prefer smaller designs on their lower abdomen. Designs for girls are tiny and pretty drawings, such as dolphins, angels, stars, butterflies, flowers, vine s, etc., which have a cute, innocent, and beautiful look. Though dragons are usually associated with men, some designs for women also include dragon tattoos, which makes them look eccentric and rebellious. Zodiac signs are another popular designs for women, and can be done on the lower stomach or just above the pelvic bone.
However, most women just prefer to have either a flower or a butterfly inked on their stomach, and these remain the most popular of designs for women.
For Men
Usually, when men sport this body art, they are in conjunction with other designs. In most cases, these tattoos tend to join designs on the arms and the chest. The most popular designs for men are dragons, and these cover most part of the abdomen. Dragons represent might and strength in most cultures, and are also considered to be a symbol of masculinity. Intricate dragon tattoos are available for men in various sizes. Apart from dragons, another popular type of stomach body art for men is the anchor design. Body art designs for men are generally bigger and also include large prints of wild animals, abstract drawings, etc.
Tips and Aftercare
Stomach is one of the most challenging areas to get inked, as the skin there is generally soft and difficult to stretch tight. It can be painful and injurious as well, as tattoo healing process for the stomach takes more time, which may lead to skin infections. It is essential to get a skilled and experienced tattoo artist who is comfortable inking on the stomach and can guide you about the aftercare.
Women need to take extra care before getting inked on their abdomen in case they are planning to start a family. A tattoo can conform to gradual weight gain, but the sudden weight gain during pregnancy can damage the design, making it look twisted. So, you need to carefully decide on the placement of the tattoo. If you get it right below your belly button, there are chances of damage in the long run, as your skin texture changes as you age. Getting inked on the either side of the lower abdomen on the pectoral bones is probably the best idea. If not, you have the option to go for temporary body art, which give the same effect and allow you to sport them for a limited period.
Those who are scared of the needle but still want to get inked need not worry, as they have the option to go for henna or sticker tattoos, which are easy to wear and erase as well. As always, it is important to note that tattoos are permanent marks on the body, and their removal is at best a partial and expensive practice. It is better to get a temporary tattoo and see if you like it before you go in for a permanent one.
