CLOCKS, lions and roses – they’re some of the most requested designs among male clients.
But a tattooist has labelled such inkings huge “red flags” in a now-viral TikTok video.
Lions are a popular choice among male tattoo fans – such as this chap in Brighton[/caption]
Even Ed Sheeran has a lion tattoo – smack bang in the middle of his chest[/caption]
Asked to name a “men’s red flag” tattoo, one of the inkers at London studio Delilah’s Dagger replied: “Lions, clocks and roses!”
Another employee took aim at those who choose to have the “fall of Icarus” on their body, adding: “Like, if you have that, like, come on mate!”
Even Moana star Dwayne Johnson was caught in the crossfire, as his “Maui” tattoo – aka the tribal design on his chest that pays tribute to the actors’ Samoan roots – is another on the red flag list.
Any man who has Roman numerals of their own birthday inked on their body is one to steer clear of, someone else warned, as well as those who choose a ‘Family First’ design.
Forget the prayer hands with rosary beads on them too, another tattooist said.
While someone else who works at the studio insisted: “I literally don’t tattoo men. Girls only!”
“Tag your bros and let the roast begin. We’re judging… respectfully,” they captioned their TikTok, which has been watched almost five million times.
However, they then added: “PSA: This is all jokes, no shade! — your body your choice.
“Even the walking red flags!”
The comments section was immediately filled with people weighing in, with many questioning why some of the designs had made it to their cautionary list.
“I was gonna get Icarus falling,” one wrote.
“Stop! I’m sorry, I won’t.”
“Damn, Icarus??? That story has some really great meaning to it,” another argued.
“I don’t see how it would be a red flag?”
“The fall of Icarus is so pretentious…” a third insisted.
“The level of egotistical delusion!”
Tattoo Do’s and Don’ts
1. Think, think and think some more
Tattoos done on a whim are far more likely to lead to regret than a tattoo you thought long and hard about. Think about why you want what you’ve chosen. And if you still want it after a few months, then get it.
2. Age restrictions apply
You must be 18 years old to be tattooed in the UK.
3. Don’t haggle over the price
When you go to a tattoo shop the price is the price. You are paying for an artist’s time and skills, they charge what they believe those things are worth.
4. Don’t get tattooed while you’re hungry
Eat before you go for your tattoo session and make sure you’re hydrated. You’re about to be subjected to a period of sustained physical discomfort, if you’re feeling a little weak from hunger or you’re dehydrated things will not go as smoothly as they should.
5. Don’t drink alcohol before you get tattooed
If you are drunk or under the influence of drugs, don’t go for a tattoo. In fact, if your tattooist has anything at all about them they will turn you away if you are clearly under the influence of any intoxicating substances. I’d also avoid drinking the night before, even a few drinks will thin your blood and make your bleed more.
“Why is the fall of Icarus a red flag?” someone else commented.
“It’s a decent story with a good lesson!”
“Do people have no original tattoo ideas anymore?” another sighed.
“So many young ones just get the 1st image that pops up on Google!”
