After getting a tattoo, the outer layer of skin (the part you can see) will typically heal within 2 to 3 weeks. While it may look and feel healed, and you may be tempted to slow down on the aftercare, it can take as long as 6 months for the skin below a tattoo to truly heal.
Skin around larger tattoos takes longer to recover and certain factors, like picking at the scabs, not moisturizing, forgoing SPF, or using a lotion with alcohol may slow the process.
Yes, it hurts to get a tattoo, but different people have different thresholds of pain. It won’t feel the same for everyone.
The level of pain also varies depending on:
the tattoo’s placement on your body
the size and style of the tattoo
the artist’s technique
your physical health
how you prepare
This is all a matter of personal taste.
You can get whatever you want, and whatever your artist is willing to do.
You can choose a picture off the wall, or you can have them create a custom piece
just for you. Your only limit is your own imagination. As far as where you should
get it goes, just keep in mind what you do for work and the type of social circles
you are in. You might want to consider placing your tattoo where it can be easily
covered up with normal clothing.