Things I wish someone would have told me before getting a tattoo

Kind of like with oddly coloured hair, there are things they never tell you about tattoos(just in case you’re wondering, the thing people should tell you before you dye your hair any colour not usually found in nature is that kids will point, you’ll get a lot of compliments-seriously, every time I’m out in public I get at least 2 people telling me how lovely my hair/hair colour is- and that if you see another person with the same colour hair as you, you’ll exchange a knowing smile, like you’re part of the same secret club house). My list of things I wish someone would have told me about first tattoos is:

• The second you’re down from the tattoo high, you’ll start planning the next one(if you’re lucky. If you’re not, you’ll start saving for laser removal surgery). I think it took me two hours before I started thinking about my next one.
• You’ll become best friends with your tube of antiseptic/nappy rash cream.
• There is no way you’re going to pass in front of a mirror without stopping to admire it.
• You will start noticing other people’s tattoos way more. I loved to see ink on people before but since I got mine, I see it more. It just pops out.
• You’ll have to answer the “Does it hurt?” question about a billion and one times.
• Comparing ink and stories will become a regular past time between you and your friends who are just as passionate.
• Tattoo blogs do exist and you may end up spending hours browsing them.
• Remember point one? Let me say it again. You will start planning the next one. They’re bloody damn addictive.
• Clothes will be separated in two piles: those that show the tat and does that don’t.
• They itch. When they’re healing...they itch. Possibly at the most inappropriate times, like your organic chem revision lecture. Did I mention you can’t scratch them? Argh, the itching.
• They’re amazing.
• People will ask “Why did you get that/What does it mean?” a lot.

Yes, I am still very much in love with my tattoo. I’m thinking my hip might be next. Or lower back. Or both.