When you walk into a tattoo parlor, you are instantly greeted with eye-catching designs filled with color and complexity. Unless you have already decided on a design, it can be very difficult to select one on the spot. Even if you have a selected design already in mind, the artist may present you with varying possibilities that will present you with a difficult decision. Before arriving for your tattoo, it is a good idea to have a selection of designs that you are interested in. Men and women will naturally select different images whereas the gentleman may prefer a masculine and powerful tattoo and the woman may prefer something dainty and pretty. For example, a gentleman may prefer a large tattoo with a lot of color or something that symbolizes the love that he shares for his wife or girlfriend. It is advisable that tattoo recipients give careful consideration to personalized tattoos. Why? If the relationship ends later, the tattoo will still remain unless it is surgically removed. Therefore, many gentlemen are electing to have symbols that remind them of something that they enjoy, such as a career, a hobby or a symbol that means something special to their life. Women who decide to have a permanent tattoo will often select a dainty image, such as a heart, butterfly or floral depiction. These are small and can be placed anywhere, but most commonly are located on the hip, ankle or back of the shoulder area. Women typically select a smaller tattoo in an effort to make a statement of beauty and yet something that draws attention to a certain area, such as the leg or hip. Even with these thoughts in mind, a tattoo is a very personal thing and must be a reflection of something that is important to the recipient. Therefore, there really isn’t a universal �man’ or �woman’ tattoo. Upon discussing various choices with the artist, a tattoo recipient will gain a better understanding of options and design choices. In addition, they will be able to browse through an image book or folder that will show a number of different tattoo choices, which will enable them to better decide which is right for them. This article is to be used for informational purposes only. The information contained herein is not intended to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice or recommendations for tattoo placement. Before deciding on getting a tattoo or having one removed, the patient must consult a licensed medical doctor for medical advice and/or to determine the best course of action for his/her individual healthcare needs.