Women Over 50 Getting Tattooed Now More Than Ever

Hi, I am Sheryl. If you do not know me, I have been tattooing here in Tucson since 2002. I didn't start tattooing until I was 29, so that makes me in my 50s now—53 at the end of this year to be exact. Getting to your fifties, for a lot of us, is quite the awakening. By now, a lot of us have already experienced several "dark night of the soul" type events. The loss of love, the loss of a life not lived, the death of loved ones, are just some of the experiences that have shaped a lot of lives at this stage of our journeys here. I myself know that there has been profound joy and profound sadness that have shaped who I am today. The joy gives you a reason to live, while the grief can help remind us of the impermanence of this place, and to cherish the time we have here. These are all moments and memories that we do not want to forget, and as tattoos have become more accepted, and women have become more comfortable with their own forms of expression, tattoos have become a popular option.

Skull with a birth flower/place bouquet

I know this because of my own clientele and the diverse experiences I have encountered while tattooing. In the past, I would occasionally tattoo individuals over the age of 56, perhaps once in a while, as it was not a common occurrence. However, I have noticed a significant shift in recent years; it is now quite commonplace to have women in their mid-sixties to seventies sitting in my chair, ready to commemorate their life stories through body art. What I have discovered through these interactions is that many of these women are choosing to mark significant moments in their lives—experiences that have shaped them and helped them navigate the complexities of aging, resilience, and personal growth. The tattoos they select often symbolize themes of growth and strength, with popular choices including powerful images such as a phoenix rising from the ashes, the mythological figure of Medusa, or even delicate representations like a tiny butterfly. Each of these tattoos serves not only as a form of self-expression but also as a profound reminder of important memories and milestones. Every time they talk about their tattoo or glance at it, it unlocks a treasure trove of stories and emotions, reinforcing the significance of their journey.

Tattooing the head can be a bold move, but it is a stunning display for individual freedom.

Tattooing on mature skin presents its own unique set of challenges and considerations. The variances in skin quality can swing wildly depending on a multitude of factors, including genetics, past occupations, and the climate in which an individual has lived. For instance, I have encountered clients in their 40s who possess skin that appears to be that of someone in their 60s, primarily due to their long-term exposure to the harsh outdoor elements in places like Tucson. The sun's relentless rays can cause premature aging and changes in skin texture, making it more challenging to achieve the desired results for a tattoo artist who may not have the experience or knowledge required to work with mature skin. It is crucial to understand that older skin can be thinner, more fragile, and less elastic, which necessitates a different approach in technique and care. The ink may not hold in the same way as it would on younger skin, and the healing process can also be more complex. Therefore, it is essential for tattoo artists to approach each session with a tailored strategy, ensuring that they are equipped to handle the unique needs of each client, while also respecting the stories and emotions that their tattoos represent.

A colorful desert sleeve with flowers and critters.

If you're looking to start your tattoo journey, whether you're new to it or not, the best way to achieve great results is to find an experienced artist in your area and schedule a free consultation. Request portfolio pictures of aged skin to see the results for yourself. If you're in the Tucson area, I schedule consultations through my website - www.sheryllake.com. When you attend your consultation, it's helpful to have an idea of the tattoo style you like and what you want to get done. You don't need an image, as that will be created for you. From there, I usually proceed to a second consultation where we review a drawn design, discuss any changes, and then typically schedule the tattoo appointment. The drawing consultation has a $100 charge, which will be applied as a deposit for your tattoo appointment. Otherwise, it's a small fee for the time I spend planning and creating the design. I don't mind making changes, but if there are many revisions, I may suggest revisiting the concept. I'm quite good at understanding what people want, but even I can't create something for you if you're unsure of what you want. I'd rather wait to ensure an idea is solid before making it a permanent mark on your body.

Any questions about the process and even if you just are wanting a basic price quote on an idea, you can email me at healingarttattoo@gmail.com, or text me at 520-340-6663. I look forward to hearing from you!