Tattoos can signify different meanings to different people; some people opt for a tattoo to make a statement of uniqueness while for some a tattoo can symbolize a group or a clan.
Amateur tattoos: These are rudimentary tattoos and are crude in nature as it is done by a person with no specialized experience. These tattoos are not of aesthetic nature and are done in unsanitary conditions with unusual elements used for dyeing. The risks of infection are extremely high as one is not dealing with professionals.
Cultural or religious tattoos: Certain ethnic groups have a hidden meaning behind tattoos. They can symbolize ranks and achievements amongst a native group. Traditional methods are used to obtain dyes.
Professional tattoos: These are tattoos which are done by professionals specialized in tattooing. A tattoo machine consisting of needles which puncture the skin and delivers dyes inside layers of skin.
Cosmetic tattoos: Tattoos can be used as a form of make-up by imitating hair, enhancing features such as lips (lip liners) or eyes (eyebrows, eye liner) and even moles. Discolouration of skin can be hidden by tattooing.
Medical tattoos: Wearers of this tattoo want to signify a particular health condition or a blood group type in case of emergencies. In some forms of breast reconstruction a tattoo may be used to imitate an areola.
Traumatic tattoos: These tattoos are not intentional and happen during accidents when a foreign element gets imbedded into the skin. For example, accidental stabbing of pencil can leave graphite under layers of skin making it visible as a gray speck.
