A tattoo is marking on the skin made by placing indelible ink with the use of needles under the first layer of the skin. The marking more or less is permanent. This practice is common in a lot of cultures and people throughout the world but most especially in Polynesian and Pacific area. The first mention of the tattoo was made in a journal Cook’s voyage around the world when they encountered Samoans who have markings all over their body. In fact the word tattoo came from the Samoan word tatau. Today the practice is popular in many parts of the world where it is not a tradition to have tattoo markings.

Having a tattoo may have negative connotations in some cultures. In Japan having a tattoo in the traditional way usually means that one is a member of the criminal underground called Yakuza. Some public baths have gone so far as to declare the wearing of such tattoo to forbidden in their premises. In the United Sates criminals particularly convicts have developed a subculture of their own, with different styles of tattoos having different meanings. Some cultures still see having a tattoo as somehow associated with branding which was a form of punishment for deserters in the military and other undesirable elements in society.

Everything is fast changing though. More and more people are seeing tattoo as a great way of expressing themselves. Through these markings they can turn their bodies into canvasses where their lives are pictured. The latest trend in tattooing n fact is meant for girls which is a new market for it. Foot tattoo designs are fast the in thing for girls this season. They see it as a wholly feminine way of expressing themselves. Flowers are the most popular designs for foot tattoo but other patterns are becoming popular as well.

Skull tattoo designs have always fascinated a lot of people. ever since the ancient times this motif has preoccupied many artists. It could mean death, danger, frailty, and darkness. A lot of people are having his design turned into tattoos in their bodies.

Now if you are thinking of having a tattoo remember that whatever design you choose you will have to live with it for the rest of your life. So think carefully and hard about what tattoo you will be getting so that you can get the best one to match your personality.