I wouldn't worry about toxicity too much - the actual dosage is really low, and a lot less of the pigment makes its way into your blood than you think. Also, a

I wouldn't worry about toxicity too much - the actual dosage is really low, and a lot less of the pigment makes its way into your blood than you think. Also, as far as regret goes, if you let an artist who does art you like do something for you, you won't regret engaging them. You can get something on your thigh, for example, that is rarely visible. If you're really serious about getting a tattoo, here are some things you should think about: - Find a style you like. Japanese traditional, American traditonal, American neo traditional, highly realistic etc. Different artists specialize in different areas and often go all over the place. It's worth reading the history on american traditional, as a starting point - it has some very direct lineage from the japanese style, which itself is so bright and clear because it was developed before tattoo guns existed. - Instagram is currently "the" place for artists to show off their work. Also, go on google maps and look at shops' websites in your local city to get links to their artists' instas. This is very much an artisan process. - Create a list of tattoos you like, and then find an artist who does work you like in the style you like. - Tell them you're new, that you're open to ideas, and bring a list of art (both stuff they've done and others in a similar style) that you liked. Try not to go in with a very specific idea - rather, be open. For various reasons, most of the better artists won't do walk-ins and have calendars booked weeks or months out. Schedule a consult. I personally like more funky, clear, bright stuff. https://www.instagram.com/p/CoiQyavO0ES/ https://www.instagram.com/p/CoiQyavO0ES/ https://www.instagram.com/p/C3R9IUgRQuC/ https://www.instagram.com/p/C3R9IUgRQuC/ https://www.instagram.com/p/C3Zt1Rorawh/ https://www.instagram.com/p/C3Zt1Rorawh/