Evidence suggests that the custom of applying permanent ink on the skin has been around for at least 5000 years, when a corpse was found in Western Europe with tattoos evident on its body. The corpse, that of a male, had simple line markings on several places on his body. Some scientists believe that these markings, particularly those that crossed his ankles, were actually made as a way to treat arthritis.

Further evidence suggests that tattoos were part of the culture of Ancient Egypt, as supported by the existence of geometric markings on the body of the priestess Amunet.

It is customary for several other societies to also practice the art of tattooing, including that of the Celts and Iroquois of Canada.

Negative Connotations

However, a tattoo isn't always socially acceptable. Though the practice still readily continues in several cultures around the world, there is a negative connotation of their presence in "modern" society. A tattoo may be regarded with slight contempt, as they often are perceived to have some type of connection with the underworld or gang culture. It is for that reason that removing tattoos have become just as popular as getting them.

Getting Rid of Them

Originally, removing tattoos was more difficult than getting them. There was actually no way to remove a tattoo, and so artists improvised by trying to make the shape of the existing tattoo into something else. If that didn't work, then another alternative was provided, albeit a painful one: the tattoo was removed, along with the skin it was on. Needless to say, this was not a popular option, but was the only way to get rid of it completely. This method involved simply cutting the skin off, or "scraping" it.

With advancements in technology, alternatives in tattoo removal are no longer as invasive as they once were. Lasers are now utilized to get rid of tattoos. Known as Laser Tattoo Removal, the procedure is considered far less painful than traditional methods, sometimes even less painful than actually getting the tattoo in the first place! The technique involves targeting the unwanted tattoo with a laser energy emitted by a device that controls its wavelength and pulse time. This laser energy breaks down the particles of pigment, which then are eliminated by the body naturally.