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The start of tattooing in the west began when Captain Cook who was a British explorer sailed to Tahiti.  The Tahitians used the term “tatatau” or tattau, meaning to hit and this became today’s term “tattoo”.  Tattooing  became fashionable among Europeans, starting with the sailors and 18th century explorers.  Sailors and later, coal miners, both had professions that carried serious risks.  This would then explain the almost amulet-like use of anchors or minor’s lamp tattoos on the men’s arms.  From the sailors, the practice of tattooing later spread to many Western societies.

It is estimated that 40 to 50 million Americans have at least one tattoo.  A distinctive tattoo for some, like the sailors or coal miners are symbolic.  Many prisoners and gang members often use tattooing to reflect their criminal behavior.  It may show their gang affiliation or some gang members use a tear to show friends who were killed.

Members of the U.S. military have an equally well-established and prideful history of tattooing to indicate military units, battles, kill, etc., a custom  which remains widespread among older Americans.  Tattooing is also common in the British Armed Forces.

Tattooing has experienced a resurgence in popularity in different parts of the world, such as North and South America, Japan and Europe.  With that resurgence of tattooing has come an influx of new tattoo artists into the industry, many of whom have technical and fine arts training.

Formal interest in the artistry of tattooing has become prominent in the 1990’s – 21st century.  Contemporary art exhibitions and visual art institutions have featured tattoos as art through such means as displaying tattoo flash, exploring the works of tattoo artists, or incorporating examples of body art into [mainstreameveryday] exhibits.

With this popularity has come tattoo regret where it is estimated that half of those receiving tattoos today live to regret their decision and are seeking a tattoo removal.   Tattoo removal options are many, ranging from a sophisticated laser tattoo removal to in home tattoo removal creams.   The most effective means of tattoo removal is laser tattoo removal which can be painful and expensive.  Tattoo removal cream is an option that is controversial as to its effectiveness.  It can be done in the privacy of your home and the cost is substantially less than laser tattoo removal.   Surgery is also a possibility for smaller tattoos.   There is also an option where the skin is sanded to remove the tattoo.  Another possibility is to simply do a tattoo cover up using make up or clothing.