A face tattoo. [Photo/lastsparrowtattoo.com]
Regardless of how forward you think you are, getting at tattoo is a serious decision to make, especially if you are an African and in this case, a Kenyan.
Society still frowns upon people who bear visible tattoos. Getting your body inked is still considered a preserve of the gangsters and people of questionable character. Before you walk into a tattoo parlour, here are a few things you should know.
1. You'll probably regret itThis is not something that your parents just say to scare you. It is a proven fact. Tattoo removal business have grown with over 400% in the last five years. Think about why you want something that those who went before you are dying to get rid off.
A bad tattoo meme. [Photo/
rebelsmarket.com]
2. Tattoo removal is not easy, or cheap
Once you are don with point number one above, you will be frustrated to know that tattoo removal is a preserve of those with shit loads of money and time to spare. The procedure is also excruciatingly painful.
3. Tattoos limit your chances of getting meaningful employment
Let us begin with the fact no military will enlist you if you have tattoos. Do not bother going for a KDF recruitment because the moment you remove your shirt and they see the ink, you are a gonner.
Many employers still frown at people with visible tattoos. Nobody is questioning your ability to work, just your character and affiliation. If you are looking for employment, you do not want to give your potential employer too much to think about before hiring you, especially if it is negative.
4. Good tattoos do not come cheap
In the tattoo world, quality is expensive. If an artist is suspiciously cheap, his work is probably just as bad.
You get the tattoo you pay for. [Photo/rebelsmarket.com]
5. Tattoos are permanent
If you are thinking of getting a tattoo, keep in mind the ramifications - physical, social and financial - that you will have to deal with for the rest of your life. You also ought to familiarise yourself with how to take care of your fresh tattoo, if you decide to go for one. Remember that different body parts heal differently.