Tattoo in Nigeria: Everything you need to know

A tattoo is a process of creating artwork, drawings, or inscriptions on any area of the body using dye, ink, and other materials.

While some use it to conceal scars or other imperfections, it is mostly done to enhance one's appearance.

Either the problem is transient and can be fixed, or it is permanent and cannot be fixed.

Tattoos have long been a part of African culture, where they are primarily utilised as a form of identity rather than as a form of art or fashion as they are now.

Although many people in Nigeria strongly disapprove of them, getting a tattoo is not prohibited.

Many individuals nowadays have the preconceived notion that only irresponsible members of society get tattoos.

People with tattoos are thought to be either prostitutes, gangsters, cults, or criminals.

However, this assumption is incorrect since many law-abiding, responsible adolescents enjoy having tattoos.

If you don't care about stereotypes, you can get a tattoo without worrying about the consequences.

However, you should be aware that tattoos are not permitted in the Nigerian military.

What You Should Know Before Getting Your First Tattoo

Unlike in the past, tattoos are now more of a form of art and self-expression than a way to identify one's culture. Despite the unfavourable stereotypes surrounding tattooing in the West, many Nigerian teenagers still get tattooed. I myself have a few that I adore.

Following the rumours of Big Sean and Jhene Aiko's breakup, I thought it would be a fantastic idea to talk about tattoos. I've put up a few things you should know before getting your first tattoo based on what I've learned.

1. Determine the tattoo you want to have by carefully considering it and spending time creating it. I advise you to start with modest, straightforward designs.

You are a novice at this, so a whole sleeve is probably not appropriate. Find some tattoo inspiration on Pinterest.

Another option is to collaborate with a tattoo or graphic artist to create something you enjoy. Be definite about your decision since tattoos endure for virtually a lifetime.

2. Why This Tattoo: For obvious reasons, I believe that getting a tattoo should not be an impulsive or emotional decision.

Spend even more time contemplating what it means to you and why you want it on your body. Check to see whether you can tolerate it for the rest of your life.

Never, ever, ever get a tattoo of a lover's face, name, initials, or anything else that could be connected to them.

Due to the unpredictability of relationships, it is frequently a terrible decision. It's not the best move, not even after marriage.

3. Where to Put It: Choosing where to place your tattoo is crucial, particularly if you live and work in Nigeria and have a 9–5 job or other customer-facing position.

I advise you to think about your lifestyle and professional goals.

Unless you are really successful in the entertainment industry, get your tattoo on body portions that are covered, at least in formal attire.

Please, whatever you do, refrain from getting a tattoo on your face.

4. Pain Threshold: It will hurt, of course. Depending on the size and specifics of your design, it can hurt significantly. It hurts because a slew of needles will keep piercing your skin and injecting ink underneath it. You should be prepared for greater discomfort the larger your tattoo is. Prepare to stand.

5. Sensitivity: It's also crucial to remember that certain body regions are more sensitive than others, making it more unpleasant to have ink applied to them.

Also, certain areas need more time to recover. Avoid touching your knees' backs, ribs, elbow, groyne, and private region.

6. Mental Preparation: Most Nigerians would likely have an unfavourable opinion of you if you get a tattoo.

Some could be courteous and interested, while others might not be. People in the church will see you as adrift and worldly. Some dates will think you're sleazy, careless, or a charlatan.

Your family and friends will preach at you and think something is wrong with you. Employers, please...don't allow your ink to be the cause of your unemployment.

7. Do Your Research: It takes time to find a reputable tattoo artist. I am not yet aware of any decent ones in Nigeria. Check out the websites, Facebook, Instagram, and portfolios of tattoo artists.

Consider reading reviews from previous customers and making an attempt to stop by the tattoo parlour to ask questions. Learn as much as you can about their practices, costs, and cleanliness requirements.

Make sure the artist has new gloves on and opens the needles in front of you. The building should have a faint disinfecting odour.

8. Save Up: Good tattoos are not cheap, and cheap tattoos are often bad, so be prepared to spend some money.

The price of a tattoo is often calculated by the number of hours needed to complete your design.

Small tattoos are rather costly since you have to pay for the consumables like gloves, wipes, and needles that are utilised.

9. Talk to Your Artist: Learn as much as you can about your artist's talent and his or her professional reputation through reviews.

10. Travel With Company: Making a new experience difficult, it is advisable to travel with a supportive companion.

Make a buddy and go to the tattoo parlour together for a second view of the place and some fun company while the artist works.

My sister was here. She preferred piercings over tattoos but still stood by me.

11. Tattoo Care: For at least a week, a new tattoo needs particular care.

A professional tattoo artist may provide you with an ointment and provide information on how to care for the tattoo in the following days. Get a tube of Bepanthen from a drugstore if they don't.

It works excellent for diaper rash and is often used for tattoos.

Tattoo prices and costs in Nigeria

Professional tattoo artists in Nigeria often charge between N20,000 and N150,000 for each tattoo they design. In Nigeria, most neighbourhood tattoo parlours charge between N3,000 and N10,000 per tattoo.

This cost is just an estimate since a tattoo artist must take into account several things.

The cost and pricing of tattoos in Nigeria are influenced by the variables listed below.

Factors Affecting Nigeria's Tattoo Prices

Tattoo varieties

The kind of tattoos is a crucial consideration for many artists when determining tattoo prices in Nigeria.

Do you prefer temporary or permanent tattoos? Remember that a permanent tattoo is more expensive than a temporary one.

Tattoos' size

On various bodily parts, people draw, write, and create various works of art.

The cost will increase as the tattoo becomes bigger and becomes more intricate.

Locations/Expertise

Read Also: How to Become a Laser Tattoo Removal Technician?

The skill and location of the tattoo artist are other factors that affect the cost of Nigerian tattoos.

It would cost more to have it done professionally than it would have it done locally, where it may cost between N3,000 and N10,000.

You should be aware that the majority of neighbourhood tattoo parlours don't sanitise their tools, and the tattoos could not be treated properly.

It is advised to use professional tattoo artists rather than neighbourhood parlours to prevent illnesses and consequences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tattooing is a growing trend that crosses all age groups and ¹socioeconomic strata. It has even reached "fad" status in Nigeria.

Its acceptance as a style of clothing and means of expression is not exclusive to the Western world.

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