Tattoos are also known as body art. They can be traced back to more than 12,000 years when women belonging to various cultures adorned their body with tattoos. Today, tattoos are becoming an integral part of women's fashion across the world. They represent women's attitudes, belief, or lifestyle. Women also go in for cryptic tattoos which hold a significant meaning known only to the person who flaunts it.

Types
Tattoos can be divided into two kinds.

Permanent Tattoos: These tattoos last a lifetime. When getting a permanent tattoo done, women should take care that the needles and other equipment are sterilized otherwise it could lead to infection. Some permanent tattoos are detailed to perfection. This would need patience on the part of the tattoo artist as well as the person getting it done.

Permanent tattoos are said to be painful, and can take anywhere from a few hours to a day or two (after being etched) before they are ready to be flaunted. It is also necessary that women choose the right designs, because they have to live with them!

Temporary Tattoos: These tattoos are also known as fake tattoos or stick-on tattoos. These tattoos can either be painted with waterproof body paint, or stuck onto the desired body part which needs to be flaunted. Body paint tattoos/painted tattoos are painless, and last anywhere from a few days, to a month or more depending on the paint used.

Stick-on tattoos are gaining popularity because they give instant results. These tattoos are an increasing favorite with women aged 18-40. Stick-on tattoos are also easier to remove. These tattoos are ideal for parties and informal gatherings.

Design and style
Fashion tattoos are available in many sizes, shapes and colors. Interesting tattoo designs include zodiac tattoos, celebrity tattoos, tribal tattoos, and religious tattoos. The most popular designs are dragon tattoos, scorpion tattoos, heart tattoos, cross tattoos, butterfly tattoos, fairy/angel tattoos, flower tattoos, or the names of loved ones.

Other tattoos include bracelet tattoos, armlet tattoos and anklet tattoos, or those with colorful, abstract designs. Custom tattoos/personalized tattoos are also available for women who wish to make a unique fashion statement.