With the weather warming up, maybe you’re thinking about fresh ink for spring break or a piece to show off at the beach this summer. I don’t have any tattoos yet… mostly because I can’t make up my mind. But this new video from the Kent County Health Department actually made me think twice about where I’d get one.
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While the theme from Friends plays, two best buds shoot hoops, put together puzzles, and decide the next step in their friendship is to get matching BFF tattoos. They wander into a “shady tattoo shop.” The “artist,” played by a real tattoo pro, acts like he is ready but he has never used the equipment before and admits he has mostly been watching YouTube tutorials.
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The friends are completely clueless, joking nervously while the artist assures them they are in good hands. It is funny, but also a little scary if you have ever thought about getting inked.
By the end, the artist drops the real tips:
- Make sure your tattoo shop is licensed
- Research your artist
- Know exactly what you want
- Pay attention to cleanliness and safety
If something feels off, just walk out. Checking a license is easier than you think. You can visit the state’s website, and if you suspect a shop is not licensed, you can report it to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Tattoo removal is expensive and takes multiple sessions, so it is worth being careful…