Genital Tattoos

[CAPE COD NUDISTS]

We are considering getting matching genital tattoos. Probably be scorpios since we are only born one day apart in October. We are thinkning about the penis etc, we just thought matching tattoos in the flessy groin area would look nice. By the way we are also both smoothie's also and like the look and feel ot this option to.
We both have tattoos, I have 5 and the wife has one small one. They were not that painful to get.
Now on to the the question: Would it hurt to get the fleshy genital area tattooed? If so how bad? Does anyone have a tattoo in that area and if so what is it?

Thanks for any and all info and comments.

Jim & Anne

[CAPE COD NUDISTS]

We are considering getting matching genital tattoos. Probably be scorpios since we are only born one day apart in October. We are thinkning about the penis etc, we just thought matching tattoos in the flessy groin area would look nice. By the way we are also both smoothie's also and like the look and feel ot this option to.
We both have tattoos, I have 5 and the wife has one small one. They were not that painful to get.
Now on to the the question: Would it hurt to get the fleshy genital area tattooed? If so how bad? Does anyone have a tattoo in that area and if so what is it?

Thanks for any and all info and comments.

Jim & Anne

[Croydon]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by CAPE COD NUDISTS:
We are considering getting matching genital tattoos. Probably be scorpios since we are only born one day apart in October. We are thinkning about the penis etc, we just thought matching tattoos in the flessy groin area would look nice. By the way we are also both smoothie's also and like the look and feel ot this option to.
We both have tattoos, I have 5 and the wife has one small one. They were not that painful to get.
Now on to the the question: Would it hurt to get the fleshy genital area tattooed? If so how bad? Does anyone have a tattoo in that area and if so what is it?

Thanks for any and all info and comments.

Jim & Anne <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Oh lord Jesus Christ, where in life do people lose their ability to think

[NakedGary]

Croydon

Your comment was uncalled for. The purpose of INA's Bulletin board is to inform, educate, and share thoughts on nudist and naturist related subjects and topics and have fun doing so. Don't Scorn, just inform, and keep the negative or derogatory remarks to yourself Please....

I do not have any tattoos, but I am sure that someone out there in the membership does and can answer Jim's and Ann's reasonable question before having such work done in the genital area. I saw a couple at a resort who had a small spider and web in the genital area and the male had the same small tattoo on his penis near the base.

[wifdog]

Hi Cape Cod

I have 3 tattoos and would like to get one in the pubic area, I have a friend and his wife that got them there and it does look nice, maybe some day when I have the extra cash after the kids are raised ..haha

Wifdog

[kevincabrera]

I have a tatoo in my flesy pubic area, and I love it. The pain that I endured during the proceedure was very very minimal. Everyone kept telling how much it would hurt, but let's face it, for most people that area is fatty. The pain really occurs on areas where there is no fatty tissue. My tattoo is of a bird that looks like it is coming in for a landing on a perch. That was the look that I wanted.
Kevin Cabrera

[Angel]

Hi, Jim & Ann /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Just a heads up: even among nudists, there are people who believe that body piercing or tattooing is sexually perverse, and some nudist clubs will refuse permission to enter or join because of your bodymods.

There are a couple of threads already on the subjects that you might find enlightening, or at least something to consider when making this decision.

http://www.clothesfree.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=3;t=000291 and
http://www.clothesfree.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=000626;p=1

[Stuffed Tiger]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Angel:
...snip...
http://www.clothesfree.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=3;t=000291 and
http://www.clothesfree.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=000626;p=1 <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Read these threads. Wow! Very Moving. Thanks, Angel, for sharing your story.

Here is a possible policy approach people might consider based on universal rights and duties...

No one has the right to determine the meaning of another person's body or any part of it; a person's body image and the meaning of that image is theirs and theirs alone. The freedom to be nude is therefore a basic right inherent in our humanity. Like every freedom, social nudity must be practiced and supported and defended to be kept. That is why I am here. (Of course, like every freedom, it can be abridged, but only when absolutely necessary; I believe disrespect for our own bodies underlies all disrespect of nature.)

OTOH, how a person dresses their body is another matter; that may be optional and may convey meaning that another has a right and perhaps even a duty to express an opinion on, such as a swastika arm band. Dress may be regulated, subject to freedom of speech, and often is.

Tats seem in-between because they become part of a person's body, like a tan, but were originally optional. It would seem then that tats, as an integral part of a person's body, are theirs alone to give public meaning to. A private community has a right and perhaps on occasion the duty to ask about and form an opinion based on that person's intended public meaning. The person with the tat should not feel hurt or unjustly discriminated against by that, as long as they are allowed to establish that meaning.

What do you think?

[nudeM]

Having stating my opinions in the past, I still stand by my original theories. Tatoos and piercings are up to the individual. I see nothing wrong with them, as long as they are within the limits as being acceptable. It's just the tatoos that cover the entire body, some of which are gang affiliated. These are the tatoos that I would have a problem with, but it's not my call. If they are allowed into nudist resorts, then they must be appreciated along with the others.

Piercings? If the individual has that much ability to endure the pain, then so be it. Piercings (nipples, navels, noses, penises, eyebrows), seem to be the norm these days, especially with the younger set. To me, these are okay, as long as they are not overly done. My definition of overly done is multiple studs sticking out all over the body, chains hanging on the chest/nipple areas, etc. It's hard to explain, but I think you all know what I mean.

Just my three cents worth (inflation - 1.25 cents plus tax)

[florida-david]

nude m, i'm in complete agreement over tattoos and piercings. its very hard for me to look at someone when they have a zillion holes in them with metal sticking all over or if they are constantly slurring words due to a tongue ring. grosses me out, but if they enjoy it, i guess its ok. i just might not talk to them other than to say hello. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[ATaurusJoker]

Hmmmm such an interesting topic....

First things first... Crydon you were out of line!

Now on to rosier topics.

I love tatoos and piercings. i am currently working on my first tatoo. I was going to get my labret pierced but I got a job that would not allow it. It is very silly that any nudist resort would have a problem with a tatoo that isn't racist, ect...

Piercing are a different story...

Nipples, Ear, Nose, Navel, Labret even genital are all fine and dandy but there are other lesser known piercings that could potentially cause a problem.

1) Princes Wand- Its a rod in your penis. Many get this as a form of sexual pleasure. Remember Sex and Nudism DON'T MIX (At public family stuff anyway)

2) Surface Piercings- Some are harmless. Some are spike the just protrude out of the skin. Think of comic book villians that have spike coming out of there bodies. These unhuggable people can... well... Potentially hurt someone if they happen to be partaking in a nude three legged race

3) Pocketing- More strange stuff coming out of the skin. The seems to be mostly in the form of some sort of wire being strung through the skin. This is the type of piercing I am most unfamiliar with. Sometimes the wire is harmless. Sometime it could be harmful. Do more research before making dead set judgements.

In all I think that Nudist shouldn't give a damn about inoffensive (despite the fact that its subjective) tatoos and piercings with exception to...
1) The warnings I gave above about possible Pocketing and Surface Piercing Danger
2) No princes wands or peircings whos purpose is sexual gratification
3) No Piercings that are spiked. The only exception made would ones that are in the facial area. In other words ones that wont puncture you if you happen to bump in to them.

Hope this little journey to the parlor was helpful

Steven

[Bartamus]

Wow!!ATaurusjoker..you are a wealth of knowledge on this subject. I think we're all much better
informed as a result of your post.

[stevenf64]

whilst I agree with most of the posts here i must come to the defense of Croyden. I to think its a personal choice and while i might consider getting a tatoo, /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif piercings (beyond like maybe an earing) would deffinately be out for me.
We argue back and forth on other posts about circumsion and its how we were made yet we want body adornment. Besides the counter culturalism or shock value of what porpoise is it to put a metal object thru say you nipple.(or worse)((OUCH)).

just my 1 cent

lent one out didnt get it back /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Croydon]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by NakedGary:
Croydon

Your comment was uncalled for. The purpose of INA's Bulletin board is to inform, educate, and share thoughts on nudist and naturist related subjects and topics and have fun doing so. Don't Scorn, just inform, and keep the negative or derogatory remarks to yourself Please.... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Allow me to explain the "oh lord Jesus Christ." In my teen years (I am now 21), I had piercing a tattoo. I had quite a handful piercing (I have since taken them all out) and was well aquatinted with many piercers and tattoo artists. From my experience with piercing, tattoos, the people who have them done, and the artists and piercers who do them, I have learned a few things. One, today, many who get piercing do it for trend reasons. For example, nipple piercing are popular and the reasons why they are popular is b/c EVERYONE is doing it and many want to get in on some of the action. This is why I took out my piercing, there wasn't anything unique about them b/c people who do not know the meaning behind them were getting them done. Many piercing originated from tribes and have some special meaning behind them and related to them hence why I got the piercing. Today, people have no idea what they mean and just do it to "show off."
Two, I also learned that many who have genital piercing and tattoo do it for either sexual purposes, show off purposes or both. One can receive sexual feelings from genital piercing. In many cases, genital piercing are done for show off purposes. I often go to the nude beach and come across a man who has genital/tattoos piercing and parades around the beach in order to catch everyone's attention. \
My piercing/tattoo friends and I have talked about these issues and they have drawn this conclusion: it is common for people within the tattoo and piercing community (the ones people call freaks) to have extreme piercing and tattoos, these people do it for individual reasons and often not to show off. Those not within that minority mostly do it to show off or for sexual reasons and the artists/piercers find it stupid b/c it is an unnecessary and an extreme way of going about nothing.
These reasons is why I find the genital tattoo stupid. It is just to show off and is unnecessary. There are plenty of other ways the couple can share their love or have people recognize their love (I am assuming this is why they are doing it). They can have matching ring tattoos, they can buy matching jewelry.... just a few ideas.

[florida-david]

croydon, thanks for your thoughful explanation on your opinions regarding tattooing and piercing. i think everyone can now understand a little better where you are coming from. remember, its easier to get your point across when you explain yourself instead of spouting insults (and since we are generally nice people here, the insults are not required)....

[PaulC]

Body Decoration, no matter where it is located is a personal thing. I donot think that any of us has the right to tell another whether or not to decorate their bodies. Now with that said ---- there is one big difference between a tatoo and body piercing and that is that you can always remove the piercing and after a time the hole will usually fill in. A tatoo, on the other hand is much more difficult to remove than to put on. In many cases, removal of a totoo leaves a rather bad scar. So whatever you da, you have to think about the future.

For myself, I have always wanted a small tatoo but have never completely talked myself into the permance of it. I do have, however, several foreskin piercings. The beauty of them is that I can take out the jewelery whenever I wish. At one nudist club I was quietly asked to remove the small ring I was wearing - no problem. I swim 5 days a week at the University where I am employed and used to remove the small stud that I usually wear when I was in the shower room so noone would be offended. One day I forgot to take it out and none of the guys said anything. Now I don't bother and just wear it all the time. Piercing gives me a choice a tatoo doesn't. So, after rambeling for a long time I guess my point is, who will see your body art and are you OK with them seeing you.

[CAPE COD NUDISTS]

Fellow Nudists,

We like to thank you for your replies and opinions concerning our inquiring about genital tattoos. We read them all and gained a lot of insight.
Croydon, thanks for your second post explaining or expanding on your first. Just think their are some people<non-nudists, who would have that reply if they found out other person was a nudist.
We are still up in the air about getting them. It is not for sexual purposes. Some people save people who shave do it for sexual reasons. We didn't shave for those reasons, we just like the look and feel of being smooth. We are going to get small temp. tattoos and try them out and see how they actually look and to see if we get any comments either way.

Again thanks for you help.

Jim & Anne

[Naturist Mark]

Regarding piercing and tattoos... they aren't for me. A simple desire for ornamentation I understand, but not permanent body modification. Still, that's just me. I understand most young people today feel otherwise, body modification is the current rage (odd that it coincides with unprecedented levels of body shame).

I don't have kids, but I do have a bunch of nieces, a couple of whom have tattoos. I've always told any that will listen that body piercing is a better choice for a young person. Less regret when they change tastes later, piercings heal if you change your mind.

As for genital (or other) tattoos, why not try temporary tattoos? Full color ones can last 5 to 7 days, and mehndi (henna) which actually causes the skin to change color can last up to 6 weeks. A temporary tattoo should satisfy your desired for ornamentation, allow you to try different designs and refine your tastes.

No need to settle on something permanent until you have test driven the design and know you are fully satisfied. If at all.

-Mark

[gamblefish]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Croydon:
...From my experience with piercing, tattoos, the people who have them done, and the artists and piercers who do them, I have learned a few things. One, today, many who get piercing do it for trend reasons. For example, nipple piercing are popular and the reasons why they are popular is b/c EVERYONE is doing it and many want to get in on some of the action. This is why I took out my piercing, there wasn't anything unique about them b/c people who do not know the meaning behind them were getting them done... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Does this mean that if nudism becomes wildly popular, and everyone starts living life nude, you will put your clothes back on because you won't be "unique" anymore?

[Croydon]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by gamblefish:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Croydon:
...From my experience with piercing, tattoos, the people who have them done, and the artists and piercers who do them, I have learned a few things. One, today, many who get piercing do it for trend reasons. For example, nipple piercing are popular and the reasons why they are popular is b/c EVERYONE is doing it and many want to get in on some of the action. This is why I took out my piercing, there wasn't anything unique about them b/c people who do not know the meaning behind them were getting them done... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Does this mean that if nudism becomes wildly popular, and everyone starts living life nude, you will put your clothes back on because you won't be "unique" anymore? <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Nudism, piercing, tattoos are different things and you can not clump them into same category

[ATaurusJoker]

HMmmmmmm

A couple of things...

Gamble fish makes an interesting point and while it is correct that Nudism, Tatoos, and Piercings are not the same it is a valid point that you can not allow your own interests to be swayed by the public. You are a slave to popularity if you let it dictate how you behave IN ANY WAY! Not just if you go along with it. Do what you want to do.

Now that I am back ontopic...

Temp tatoos???? They are a nice way to experiment with where you want a tatoo or what you want it to be but in my eyes they don't cut the mustard. A tatoo is commitment. It is a piece of art work that represents who you are. It's not a pair of shoes, or a new necklace. Temp tatoos are fine for what they are but a real tatoo is a commitment. As it should be.

Crydon made an excellent point about most people not realizing the spiritual side of what they are doing. I am currently plotting a tatoo. I will not put anything on my body that represents some kind of "thing" that I enjoy "now" (Believe me, its tempting for you to get a cool character or in my case a fav comic character but its just not a good idea). Instead I am looking deeper, at something I have always been and something I always will be. Something that I am in my truest core.

Thats what anyone should do when they make such a body commitment. The original poster spoke of two people getting scorpion tatoos. Are you getting them becuase they represent your true self or becuase they look cool? These are things to think about.

So get some temp tatoos and try some stuff. If you like it and you find something that sings to your soul than go ahead and get it done. You might be a very happy couple if you do!!!

Steven

P.S. Crydon you made some very interesting points. You should start a thread about the posers and wannabes in the tatoo and piercing world. I would have sooooooooooooo much to say on it!!!!

[Michelle]

I have a ganital tattoo located right next to my pubic hair. It did not hurt but i regret I got it. I was a little drunk and out with my girlfriends. One of my friend's friends got a tattoo on her breasts, one on her vagina ( it's shaved) and one on her butt. We regret we did this though. Don't do it!

[flash]

im tattooed and pierced all over..no genital tattoos but 2 genital piercings..it dosent hurt as bad as you think..i say go for it! if it hurts it will only hurt for a little bit and then its all over..the end result is usually worth the little discomfort..i would be careful in choosing tattoo parlors and body piercing places..make sure they are health dept certified and have a good reputation..piercings come out but a tat is forever and you dont want some rookie screwing up your tat especailly down there.. my 2 cents later shane

[GeorgiaNudist]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Michelle:
I have a ganital tattoo located right next to my pubic hair. It did not hurt but i regret I got it. I was a little drunk and out with my girlfriends. One of my friend's friends got a tattoo on her breasts, one on her vagina ( it's shaved) and one on her butt. We regret we did this though. Don't do it! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Michelle,

As a doctor, you should be able to advise of the large amount of nerve tissue in the gentital area and that the concerns about pain are legitamate.

Some one mentioned the cost and difficulty of removing a tattoo and that has always been the concern of our family. It seems like it is becoming more popular with long term nudists, although I do not think it would be worth doing myself.

A good alternative would be the "henna" tattoos that are temporary. People can have a lot of fun with them as nudists and they wear off in a couple of days.

[Croydon]

Or you can go for a mendi (I believe that is the correct spelling) that lasts for weeks.

[greensunshine]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Michelle:
I have a ganital tattoo located right next to my pubic hair. It did not hurt but i regret I got it. I was a little drunk and out with my girlfriends. One of my friend's friends got a tattoo on her breasts, one on her vagina ( it's shaved) and one on her butt. We regret we did this though. Don't do it! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

[greensunshine]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Michelle:
I have a ganital tattoo located right next to my pubic hair. It did not hurt but i regret I got it. I was a little drunk and out with my girlfriends. One of my friend's friends got a tattoo on her breasts, one on her vagina ( it's shaved) and one on her butt. We regret we did this though. Don't do it! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Good Point,

I have seen many different tat's and piercings...and from what I have heard from others, it is a smart idea to "really" think about what and where one is going to do to their bodies before they actually do it.

And yes, I do have several tat's but only one that can be seen provided I remove my shirt, and without having to open my mouth (3 are on crowns...and one really represents one of my bad habits...putting my foot in there when I shouldn't, the other is a heart for when we are told we should have a heart, and finally the last is a green clover for when I am in need of some extra good luck) /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif There are times I really do need the good luck associated with the green clover /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

So I am with you Michelle, think good and hard bout where and how permanent you want that tat to be placed...as a whole...I find tats a BIG Turnoff and I know I am not alone with my advise...and one never knows when we are suddenly gonna be left single with all the wackos in this world /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

Greensunshine in the Pacific NW /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

PS

Most tats and piercings look really gross once they have been on the body for while...and after a number of years, tats put on the body do have to be touched up if one wants it to look as great as it did in the beginning /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Michelle:
I have a ganital tattoo located right next to my pubic hair. It did not hurt but i regret I got it. I was a little drunk and out with my girlfriends. One of my friend's friends got a tattoo on her breasts, one on her vagina ( it's shaved) and one on her butt. We regret we did this though. Don't do it! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Big difference... they have put a lot of thought into this and you didn't.

When I had my tat done I did take the time to think about it, where I wanted it, what it should be and I'm not sorry I have it at all. The only thing I regret is that I got it on my shoulder where I can't see it. If I were to get another it would be where I can enjoy it.

[nakedtime]

I would personally never get a tattoo. I think that they are just dumb...so many people get something that they currently like, and then have to live with that on their body for the rest of their lives. I know this older man who has a tattoo of a naked man on his lower arm and it just looks ridiculous and I am pretty sure he regrets it every day of his life.

I also think that they make people look very trashy for the most part. One tatoo I can live with, but as soon as entire arms are covered it just looks absolutely ridiculous.

Besides, if this site is really about being so "natural", aren't tattoos kind of hypocritical.

I personally hate everything about tattoos and would never get one myself (please never get that drunk), but of course, I respect your right to do so.

[florida-david]

nakedtime - i do not think tattoos look trashy, that is your personal outlook. generally, my friends do not have tattoos up and down there body, but i am surprised to see how many of my friends have little tattoos. nothing wrong with that. and maybe the older guy with a naked man on his arm actually likes it. maybe it reminds him of his youth and gives him pleasure when he sees it. i think there are many different outlooks on life and maybe we can try and think of tattoos with a positive outlook. i have none and probably will not ever get one, but i do not look down on those who have them...

[Naturist Mark]

This post is about my personal prejudices. People over 18 have the right to modify their bodies as they please. I just hope they use the full measure of their maturity to refine what pleases them.

I'm not a fan of tattoos. I am particularly concerned about the current tattoo fad among kids, I find it hard to believe the cool tattoo you got at 18 is going to be so cool when you are 30. I've met lots of people who are happy with their tattoos (their choice, more power to them) but hardly anyone is fond of their first 'kiddy' tattoo, quite a few have had new larger ones drawn over those early mistakes.

Maybe its just a local thing, but it seems to me that tattoos are much more popular now among college age girls than guys. These girls tend to get 'discrete' little tattoos on their ankles, the small of their back, their belly button, behind a shoulder or at the base of the neck in back. Looks to me like a bunch of bruises.

More than once I've suspected physical abuse until I got close enough to see that those bruises were tattoos.

My advice to my nieces (one of whom is already tattooed) is to choose piercing over tattoos. Most heal over nicely once one gets tired of it or begins to reget it.

Don't get me started on tongue splitting...

-Mark

[RIVERRAT]

ANGEL, you are absolutly right, why would anybody want to inject ink into there body, I spent four years in the navy and many a drunk shore leave, I never thought, hey I think I'll go pump some ink in my arm, DAWH.

[RIVERRAT]

There are people out there who believe it's barbarrack for a man to be curcumcized,(I won't mention names.) but they would paint there bodies with things that can't be removed and pierce themselves so as to show off jewelry that know one cares to see. I guess I just don't get it. Don't yell at me Corey, thats just me!!!!!

[Shaman]

I have just two tattoos. Both can not be seen when I am dressed. I imagined the imaged I wanted , drew it out on paper, kept it around for a few months, discussed it with the tattooist. Then had it tattooed just above my penis.

Did it hurt? No, but everybody's level of pain tolerance is difference. From what I have heard from other people's experiences it is the same level of pain as one would get from a arm tattoo. A slight burning sensation.

As for the other people likes or dislikes of the tattoo and the location ask yourself who are you getting an tattoo for. Is it for you? Or is it for them? If it for yourself then it does not matter what they think. It is your body, do with it what you will. For me, I see no difference between a textile's desire to control my nakedness and a fellow naturalist desire to control what I do with my body.

[sdson]

Your body, your choice. For me the only words that comes to mind when I read the words genital tattoos is "Ow, that must really hurt."

SD

[David77]

In my way of thinking, there is nothing finer than the human body (human mind, too, which is part of the human body).
I sometimes wonder if persons are motivated to decorate (deface) their (hopefully) "revered body" with ink pictures (grafetti), by lack of respect for their precious body as it is.
I realize that some persons feel that they are right in style (with their current sub-culture) by these permanent desications on their body.

Doesn't Naturism, as well as Naturalistic Humanism laud the unadorned (and unclothed) body? We can try, only in vain,to, as they say, "guild the lily".

P.S. This does not mean that I do not accept persons with tatoos.

[Fitz1980]

I sometimes wonder if persons are motivated to decorate (deface) their (hopefully) "revered body" with ink pictures (grafetti), by lack of respect for their precious body as it is.
I realize that some persons feel that they are right in style (with their current sub-culture) by these permanent desications on their body.

Doesn't Naturism, as well as Naturalistic Humanism laud the unadorned (and unclothed) body? We can try, only in vain,to, as they say, "guild the lily".

P.S. This does not mean that I do not accept persons with tatoos.

Sounds like the shaving debate all over again. Smoothies think that body hair is nasty while other people think shaving particular body parts makes you look prepubescent.

[MoonShadow]

Don't get me started on tongue splitting...

-Mark

LOL --- amen ---- I wonder why anyone wants to do that and end up talking with a very distinct lisp. Further, from the mouth of someone I know who had their tongue split, it will make eating certain foods difficult and you will often bite your tongue. Doesn't sound like any rational human being would do this but my friend whom I thought was a rational person did. Who knew?

[badrad]

I only have one tattoo on my body - a grape vine on the right side in my public area that has meaning for me. I also have several genital piercings down the center of my scrotum and a frenum. I have them because I like them and how they feel.

I travel widely and have visited numerous private nude resorts around the country. Only a few have rules against piercings. When I visited those resorts, I have removed my piercings out of respect for the others there. When I go to public nude beaches, etc, I have never removed the piecings.

I have never had a negative comment on the tattoo, but have received several positive comments.

My ornamentation is a part of who I am. I accept others for who they are and for their choices to ornament their bodies, shave or not shaved, be circumcised or not, or to have pierced earings. Less bias and intolerance of others would improve the world.

[Centauri4]

I got my first tattoo (non-genital) more than twenty years ago and the most important part about it was that it was MY design and not something selected from a catalogue. To me this was an important factor and I chose the Saturn-like symbol because of a life-long love of the ideals represented in the many stories I had read growing up.

Flash forward to about two years ago and watching my wife visit a local tattoo parlor and begin the process of selecting a design for her lower back. She also selected a image that had meaning to her and relevance to things she endured in her life - some parts of life were "tough" and the armored dragon in flight IS how she felt having endured them. A couple of weeks after she began the process of getting her tattoo done, I worked up a new design for myself that AGAIN was decorative but also an expression of my "inner-self" that people might not immediately think of without approaching me. So I guess my tattoo is a combination conversation "ice-breaker" and an open invitation for anyone to ask me about the significance of the design.

So, I guess you could say rather than inviting someone to ask about my muscles (I don't work out) or my circumcision (wasn't my idea!), at least one of the reasons I put a Alien-artifact/Cybernetic implant (think H.R. Giger) tattoo on my right hip is to express myself to the world! Otherwise I believe we all pretty much look the same and there is NOT a lot you can guess about someone's inner-self from the skin we all share.

~

[Fitz1980]

There are people out there who believe it's barbarrack for a man to be curcumcized,(I won't mention names.) but they would paint there bodies with things that can't be removed and pierce themselves so as to show off jewelry that know one cares to see. I guess I just don't get it. Don't yell at me Corey, thats just me!!!!!

You're mixing up two different issues. The circumcision is about adults choosing to have it done to their children, who can't refuse the procedure. I don't know of any parents forcing their kids to get tattoos.

[maliakei]

I remember sitting amongst friends at the resort and someone asked me if I'd ever get a tattoo. A simple 'No' was my answer. I was asked about getting a temporary tat? Answer = No because I like my skin just the way it is.. Thank you very much! Again I was asked if I'd consider doing it if paid a million dollars. Answer was still a No-go, unless it was fleshtone ink to get rid of scars. They said that didn't count! Funny how this 'rule' was added in so quickly!

Seriously.. do tattoo artists ever use flesh tone ink to get rid of scars? Has anyone ever heard of that being done? Is it true tattoo removal is more costly (& painful) too? I must admit that some people look good with tattoos when tastefully done. Many Pacific Islanders have beautiful artwork done.

[Fitz1980]

Then I thought, do tattoo artists ever use flesh tone ink to get rid of scars?

I've never heard of that one. I've heard that Penn Jillette has a tattoo that was done with a tattoo needle with no ink inside. So basically it was just a scar in a design. Seems rather pointless to go through the pain and not get any ink. I know that Robert DeNiro got tattooed with vegetable dye ink for his role as an ex-convict in Cape Fear. The ink was naturally dissolved by his body so within a year it was all gone.

[maliakei]

I've never heard of that one. I've heard that Penn Jillette has a tattoo that was done with a tattoo needle with no ink inside. So basically it was just a scar in a design. Seems rather pointless to go through the pain and not get any ink. I know that Robert DeNiro got tattooed with vegetable dye ink for his role as an ex-convict in Cape Fear. The ink was naturally dissolved by his body so within a year it was all gone.

Penn Jillette? Do you have a picture of his tattoo to see? I am trying to imagine what it looks like.

To clarify... I have a deep scar which used to be quite dark, but faded gradually after immediate use of 'scar solution' patches. However, it never did fade completely, so naturally the idea of tattooing in matching skin tone would get rid of it, if there is such a procedure. In all honesty I don't plan on getting it done. It was just a quick answer way back when the group was asking if I'd ever consider getting a tattoo.

This brings me to ask how tattoo artists go about tattooing people with lots of moles and freckles. Wouldn't there be harm done when injecting ink in those areas? Just curious.

[OZJames]

Some weeks back I watched on TV about an Australian man who has tattoos over ALL of his body. They showed most of it on TV. The artwork was an amazing show of mostly Australian flora - just extraordinary. He was in his 60s and has had a few health issues. He was trying to find a way to preserve his "artwork" for the future and went to Japan to check out if he could be skinned (after death :laugh::laugh:) and his hide tanned, thus preserving the artwork forever. In Japan there were some examples shown of preserved (tattooed) human skins.

I enjoy seeing tattoos on people, I would love a tattoo (small) but have not been game (YET). However I would worry about people under 18 getting it done and then perhaps regretting it later.

As for genital tattoos, well - "if it takes your fancy, go for it - it's your body to do whatever you like with"

[maliakei]

Here is a photo of retired teacher Geoff Ostling displaying his tattooed skin at his home in Sydney, Australia. The 65-year-old has pledged to donate his skin to the National Gallery in Canberra after his death.

[Eternity]

This brings me to ask how tattoo artists go about tattooing people with lots of moles and freckles. Wouldn't there be harm done when injecting ink in those areas? Just curious.
I know a good tattoo artist will not tattoo moles

[Fitz1980]

Penn Jillette? Do you have a picture of his tattoo to see? I am trying to imagine what it looks like.


Here's 2 pics and Penn's article about it on Penn & Teller's website. He calls it a "Tattoo of Blood" all of the macho pain of a tattoo, but it's all healed over in a year or so.

http://www.pennandteller.com/03/coolstuff/penniphile/roadpenncut.html

[maliakei]

Interesting how he'd do that with no ink : "2 diamond" on one arm, and the other "Your Card". Both look like they'll remain embedded permanently. Getting them vegetable dyed would gradually fade away, just like the actor, Robert DeNiro had done.

[maliakei]

Below is a recent article taken (verbatim) from San Diego Magazine (Aug 2009) :

http://www.sandiegomagazine.com/media/San-Diego-Magazine/August-2009/The-Psychology-of-Tattoos/#atabc

The Psychology of Tattoos
You think it, they’ll ink it: why people get tattoos
By Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D.

The world is divided into two kinds of people: those who have tattoos, and those who are afraid of people with tattoos. Honestly, I was raised to be among the latter group. After all, who did I know growing up in Newark, New Jersey, the Weequahic section, who had tattoos? Sailors, criminals, thugs, “greasers” and just “bad guys.”

In fact, psychologists who conduct research on tattoos suffer from a mental block created for centuries that associated tattoos with an aberrant personality. Yet, as I’ve come to know more people with tattoos, I’ve discovered that tattoo designs always carry a meaning and tell you something about the person and his or her background.

The fact is, tattoo-lovers are a proud lot — they have consciously taken the decision to tattoo their bodies and would like to proudly declare that they are what they are. They are ordinary people like you and me, except that they have a strong sense of identity they have no intention of hiding. They are not scared of public opinion and would love to let others know what they believe in. And good for them! Over the centuries, instead of becoming an extinct practice, tattoos have gained in popularity — which only goes to prove that it has stood the test of time and is here to stay.

The earliest tattoos found are more than 5,000 years old. In 1991, a 5,300-year-old mummy was discovered in the Alps. He had more than 50 tattoos on various parts of his body, and he is the oldest human ever found to have tattoos. The rationale of tattoos has differed from one culture to another during the centuries. According to history, Egyptians used tattoos to differentiate slaves and peasants. Tattoos spread to China and then to Greece around 2,000 B.C. where they were used as a mode of communication between spies.

Tattooing has been practiced in Japan and other Asian countries for thousands of years. The first written record of tattooing in Japan was found in a history of the Chinese Dynasty from the year 297 A.D. Today in Japan, tattooing is considered taboo, because many of the Yakuza, the Japanese mafia, wear tattoos.

America got its first taste of tattooing from Chatham Square, located in New York. This was a place frequented by people from all over the US, especially the rich and famous. A man called Samuel O’Reilly set us his tattoo shop in this area. He was the first man to use an electric tattoo gun.

San Diego has plenty of proud tattoo artists, tattoo shops and a rich tattoo culture. With names like The Flying Panther Tattoo Shop, Avalon, Chronic, Guru, Body Mark’s Tattoo, Propaganda, Black Rose, and Vista’s recently approved first tattoo parlor, Frontline Tattoo, these shops are prospering as more people ink their bodies. You’ll never hear an “oops” at one of these premier tattoo shops.

Why are they doing it? From getting noticed, to a badge of honor, from identifying with a group to a badge of social rejection, there are many individual reasons. Asking a wide swath of people who have tattoos why someone would get something permanently imprinted on their skin reveals five basic reasons.

• Tattoos represent a loved one, living or passed away
• Religious reasons including crosses and the face of Jesus or Mary
• Military tattoos representing patriotism
• A dumb mistake (tattoos can be removed, so this reason is diminishing)
• Just for fun — just “because” a friend did it

Tattoos are a mark of the 21st century, and it’s estimated that more than 25 percent of people under 30 are inking their skin. Personal expression, youthful impulsiveness, drunken mistake — the fact is that while it’s trendy, cool and even sexy, there are murky risks to one’s health. Good tattoos aren’t cheap and cheap tattoos aren’t good, so be sure the little butterfly you think looks hot on your hip will be what you want 50 years from now, if you can still find it. In other words, think before you ink!

For more than 30 years, Dr. Mantell has successfully been bringing upbeat, friendly and helpful psychological insights to individuals, families and businesses in San Diego as a clinical and corporate psychologist in private practice. He's been a regular on Good Morning America, KFMB-TV News 8, has appeared on Oprah, Larry King Live, the Today show, authored two best-selling books and speaks regularly for audiences throughout the country. He can be found on Facebook at facebook.com/michael.mantell and Twitter at DrSanDiego.

[PeteINA]

I enjoy seeing tattoos on people ... As for genital tattoos, well - "if it takes your fancy, go for it - it's your body to do whatever you like with"

Back in the 'dark ages' of the late '70s or early '80s, my wife and I visited many of the nude beaches along the American River near Auburn, Calif. Generally, the beach-goers were pretty well laid-back - but at one of the beaches, there was one moderately endowed guy that apparently chose to make a "statement" with his tattoo'd his peni* sporting a very obvious yellow and red 'lightning bolt'. :eek::eek::eek: And, we were too embarrassed (for ourselves) to ask the guy, "Hey, what's the story with the lightning bolt, anyway?"

Though none of his behavior was in any way inappropriate, even for a family beach, we both chuckled about it whenever we made our way back to the same beach during other trips to the area, and wondered what the kids would have said, had they been aware enough to notice. To this day I can't imagine anyone subjecting themselves to that sort of 'decoration.'

Pete

[NudeAl]

I saw a women this past summer at our club durring a nude fun run who had a genital tattoo. Her entire pubic area was tattooed with the immage of the face of a snarling tiger. I am not sure what she was trying to say with that however it was impressive.

[eagle59]

I do believe that if you want a tattoo then get a tattoo, if you don't want one, then don't get one but don't criticize those that chose to get one. Getting a tattoo is a personal decision that is no one elses business. If Jim and Anne decide to get one, it will be their decision and their business alone, not ours.
That said, I do understand the undercurrent of concern here. It is our nature to warn those around us if we feel that they are going to do something that will harm them or cause them regret in the future. When my son started getting tattoos my wife wanted to know if we should "talk to him". I told her to back off and be causual about what he was doing. By doing so we have kept the lines of communication open in regards to his tattooing. Since then we have been able to have discussions with him about the decisions he was making. My son has many, many tattoos but All are placed where they cannot be seen when dressed formally. I once asked him about what if he had one that he came to regret later and his response was that we all have said things and made decisions that we regret later this is part of life. it is the same with a tattoo. He was recently talking about getting a "full sleave" and we discussed if this would be wise since He is entering law school next fall. My concern was would this be seen as "appropriate" in a corporate setting and would this be accepted? His take was I could wear long sleaves and no one will see it? This is the same thing with a genital tattoo. It is a personal thing that will bond the two together and it will only be seen by them for the most part. So why not? Will they be sorry later? Who knows? (Kind of sounds like an episode of "Soap" dosen't it?)
The bottom line is if they decide to get a genital tattoo, it will be ok by me and hopefully it will be ok with you too.

[kelly99]

Is there such a thing as a temporary tat? If you didn't like the look you get it off without scarring?

[Lord Drakkus]

Is there such a thing as a temporary tat? If you didn't like the look you get it off without scarring?

You could get a henna tattoo. It's semi-permanent and wears off after 10-20 days. It starts off as a dark brown color and darkens to nearly black after a few days. Actually looks quite nice. You still have all the pain of a tattoo, and the cost can be less (although not always). If you're seriously considering getting a tattoo, try it out using henna first to see how you like it. That way, if you don't like the look of it, just wait for it to go away and you never have to worry about getting it removed later.

The website www.hennatattoos.com (http://www.hennatattoos.com) has a lot of information on Henna.

[kelly99]

Thank you Jesus, thank you Lord...Drakkus.