The infinity symbol, which was first depicted in the 17th century after being created by an English mathematician named John Wallis, is the sign of all things infinite.
The infinity symbol represents a boundless atmosphere or something that is much greater than we can see with the naked eye.
If you’re thinking of getting a new infinity tattoo, some of the best places to consider include the back, neck, and even the wrist.
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What does an infinity symbol tattoo mean?
Individuals who choose to get an infinity symbol tattoo may do so in order to showcase their own beliefs about the world and life as we know it.
They may also be doing so for spiritual purposes or after overcoming an obstacle or realizing how expansive and infinite the universe truly is to them.
Some may choose to get the infinity tattoo symbol as a tattoo due to its appealing look and aesthetic.
Oftentimes, as with any tattoo, getting an infinity symbol as a tattoo is a deeply personal choice.
The mathematician who originally created the infinity symbol did so to represent a line that is infinite.
How big is an infinity tattoo?
An infinity symbol can be quite small (such as on a finger or wrist) or large (such as on a back or thigh.
With the infinity symbol, you have the option of scaling it as you see fit.
Because of the simplicity of the design, it is possible to get an infinity tattoo of any size by most tattoo artists today.
How do I choose where to get an infinity tattoo?
Choosing where to get your infinity tattoo will depend on the size of the tattoo you are interested in as well as whether or not you prefer the tattoo to be visible when in public or not.
Consider whether you are thinking of displaying your infinity tattoo for the world to see or if you prefer to keep it hidden from the public eye.
You should also consider how large of a tattoo you are interested in and whether or not you already have existing tattoos that may be located near your preferred location for the infinity tattoo symbol you are thinking of getting.
Will it hurt to get an infinity tattoo?
For some, all tattoos hurt, regardless of the size of the tattoo they get, the style they choose, as well as the location they select for the tattoo itself.
For others, however, getting a tattoo may not feel painful at all. In fact, it may feel as if someone is scratching your back or neck.
The level of pain you experience when getting any tattoo will depend on your own pain tolerance as well as your personal sensitivity.
If you are getting an infinity tattoo as your first tattoo, you may want to consider which areas are less likely to hurt the most, especially if you are sensitive or have sensitive skin.
Which areas are less likely to hurt when getting an infinity tattoo?
Any time you are getting a new tattoo and you are seeking a location that will be as painless and pain-free as possible, consider areas on the body that include thick skin and spaces that are not too close to the bone.
The side of the arm (exterior) is one of the most popular locations for a tattoo for those who are concerned about the pain they may experience while getting the tattoo drawn.
What are some of the most painful areas for an infinity tattoo?
There are a few places on the body that are often referred to as much more painful than others when it comes to getting a new tattoo.
Even if you are getting a small or miniature infinity tattoo, steer clear of the following areas if you are concerned about the level of pain they may cause:
- The stomach: The stomach is one of the most sensitive areas for tattoos on the body. Even with a small tattoo, this spot will surely sting.
- Ankle: While ankle tattoos are common and widespread, they may be painful and uncomfortable for those who are extremely sensitive, as the ankle bone is typically visible during the entire tattooing process.
- Face/head/neck: For some, face, head, and neck tattoos are some of the most painful spots for any tattoo. For others, however, neck tattoos do not seem to cause much pain, which can be an optimal location for a tattoo for those who wish to keep it hidden from the public eye.
- Ribs: Along with the stomach, the side of the body or the ribs can be extremely sensitive and can also require an extended period of time for your new tattoo to completely heal.
Where can I place my infinity tattoo to keep it hidden?
Whether you want to keep your tattoo hidden for work purposes or even for clothing purposes, there are a few places on the body that are ideal for doing so, such as:
- The back of your neck
- Near your ankle
- Lower back
- Stomach area/ribs
- Wrist (if receiving a small tattoo)
Why might I need to hide a tattoo?
Although more workplaces and cultures are accepting of tattoos than ever, those who are working for prestigious companies, firms, or brands may find it easier to land roles they desire without being covered in tattoos.
Those who are not fond of tattoos may interpret others who have them as not top-tier quality in terms of employment.
While it is illegal to discriminate against others when hiring for a position or a new role, it can be difficult for those who have tattoos to prove that they were not offered the job due to the tattoos they currently have.
You might also want to hide a tattoo if you are running your own business or if you represent a brand and want to maintain a style or image.
What is the best place for an infinity tattoo that I want to show off?
If you enjoy showing off your tattoos or if the infinity symbol holds a special place in your heart, you may want it placed on a spot on your body that is more visible to the rest of the world.
Some of the best places for an infinity tattoo that you might want to show off include:
- On your arm (outside/exterior)
- On your wrist (if you are getting a larger infinity tattoo)
- On your ankle, if you enjoy exposing your ankles during warmer weather
- On a finger, if you are planning to get a smaller infinity symbol
- On your neck, if you have short hair or enjoy wearing your hair up above your neck
Are there any other meanings for the infinity symbol?
Yes. For some who choose to get an infinity symbol, it means endless love.
It can also mean balance and oneness, or it can be used as a sign of friendship between multiple people who choose to get the same tattoo.
If you are looking for a religious or spiritual tattoo, the infinity symbol can also mean immortality for those who believe in unending life and/or reincarnation.
When did infinity tattoos become popular?
While the infinity symbol has been around since the 17th century, tattoos including the infinity symbol did not become popular or mainstream until after the 2000s, or the New Millennium.
Other tattoos that are similar to the infinity symbol might include tribal symbols, henna-style tattoos, and ornate designs.
What color is an infinity tattoo symbol?
You can choose just about any color and/or design style for your infinity tattoo, even if you already have an existing style of art on your body like tattoos.
With an infinity tattoo, many individuals who choose to get the symbol tattooed on them do so in black ink only.
This can help to solidify the simplicity of the symbol, especially if you choose to have a small version of the symbol tattooed on you.
However, if you enjoy bright colors or have a favorite color in mind for the infinity symbol design you envision for your tattoo, you can also incorporate as many colors as you would like.
Finding the right tattoo artist is key to truly loving the tattoo you receive.
What kind of art styles can be used with an infinity tattoo symbol?
Whether you enjoy classic matte colors, gradients, or a mix of various paint and art styles, you can do just about anything you envision with an infinity symbol.
Choosing to decorate one side with one style of art and the other using an opposing style of art can help your infinity tattoo stand out from the rest.
Will it cost more to have different colors and art styles with an infinity tattoo?
It might. For most tattoo artists, those who choose a colored tattoo over a standard blank ink tattoo will be required to pay more.
The amount you pay for your infinity tattoo will greatly depend on not only the size of the tattoo itself but also the complexity of the art style you prefer as well as the number of colors you want to display inside of the tattoo once it is complete.
Tips for finding a tattoo artist for an infinity symbol tattoo for the first time
Finding the right tattoo artist goes a long way when it comes to getting a new tattoo, especially if you are getting a tattoo for the first time.
If you want to find a tattoo artist that is familiar with the infinity symbol you are interested in for yourself, keep the following tips in mind:
- Ask for referrals: Always ask friends and co-workers or those you trust for referrals and recommendations. Knowing someone who has had a tattoo personally from a local shop can provide you with in-person displays of the quality of work that is done at a particular location.
- Research online: Research local tattoo shops and artists online in your local area. Compare the website, portfolio, and online presence of the tattoo shops and artists you are thinking of working with to find one that is right for your infinity tattoo.
- Search for similar art: If you are set on an infinity symbol tattoo, search through portfolios of local and online tattoo shops to find an artist who resonates with the style you have in mind.
- User reviews and testimonials: Any time you are thinking of seeking out a new tattoo shop or artist, search for and compare user reviews and testimonials. Reviews go a long way when it comes to finding a professional tattoo artist who you can trust and rely on for your new infinity symbol tattoo.