Tattooing is the practice of marking the skin by painting henna on for a semi-permanent result or depositing ink into the middle layer of the skin which once healed will be protected by the external skin and be visible to all. Tattooing is one of the oldest forms of body decoration and the practice has been utilised for a variety of reasons: protection, faith,ceremonial, shame, maturity, belonging to a group and attraction.
Tatts are associated with groups perceived as dangerous and have become symbols of masculinity, rebellion and rejection, some POZ(HIV+)men adopted an ‘in your face’ attitude having the bio hazard symbol tattooed on themselves to signal their HIV status. Tattoos are attractive and decorative, they can be traditional or a sophisticated art form. Tattoos and their owners can attract respect, attention and fascination by emphasising sexual appeal by drawing attention to the curves of the body or muscles making the owner feel sexy. Tattoos can be sexually explicit, some individuals state you can get addicted to getting inked to the point only small areas are left blank.