What is a tattoo ?

The origin of the word tattoo is uncertain and there are a few theories. It may have come from the Polynesian word tatao, which means "to tap", alternatively it may come from the Tahitian word tatu which means "to mark something".

A tattoo is the permanent colouring of the second layer of skin, and it is achieved by pricking the skin and applying indelible inks under the surface.

A tattoo really is for life as laser removal is both expensive and painful so think long and hard before going under the needle. Bear in mind that relationships are not always forever so, before you have your loved one's name emblazoned across your chest, think of actor, Johnny Depp, who had to have his "Winona For Ever" tattoo adapted to "Wino For Ever" when he broke up with his girlfriend.

In order to mark the edges of the pattern, tattoo artists use an "outliner", which is a bar with three to five needles soldered on to it.

The needles do not hold ink, so the process includes dipping the needles in pigments as many times as is necessary for colouring-in what has been outlined.

Nowadays, with better knowledge about hygiene and the prevention of disease transmission through sharing needles, tattoo artists, much like dentists, use a machine called an autoclave for sterilizing needles. It is very important that all the equipment is thoroughly sterilised to prevent the transmission of blood borne diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. The safest option is to use disposable needles and inkwells, razors and gloves in every studio must also be disposable.

The statutory minimum age of consent for tattooing is 18 years of age.