Tattoos today are a commonly seen form of expression. Body art has become far more prevalent over the years and definitely more accepted. Some people are surprised that blue-suited executives and nice girls in pearls are inked beneath the conservative exterior.
How do people feel when they discover the hidden artwork? It depends on where you have one and what it is. We can probably agree a small butterfly on your wrist will be viewed differently than a painted snake wrapped around your neck. One interesting exploration in tattoo research is to what extent do they make others more desirable? And if they do, why?
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Body Artwork Appreciation
Andrzej Galbarczyk and Anna Ziomkiewic (2017) examined whether tattoos made men more attractive.1 In their research, they took photos of non-tattooed men and digitally modified them to add a black arm tattoo of an abstract, neutral design.
They then presented the photos to 2584 men and women and had viewers rate the photos with and without the tattoo in several categories.
Women rated tattooed versions of the men as healthier but not more or less attractive than the men without tattoos. On the other hand, men rated tattooed versions of the men as more attractive but not more or less healthy compared with photos of the men without the tattoos.
Because the study only used heterosexual subjects, Galbarczyk and Ziomkiewic interpreted these findings as showing that men viewed other men with tattoos as same-sex rivals, given their perception that tattooed men are attractive to women. This might have something to do with perceived self-confidence, as the authors note that men gain significantly more self-esteem and body appreciation after getting inked for the first time.
Both men and women rated pictures of the tattooed men as more dominant, aggressive, and masculine. Galbarczyk and Ziomkiewic point out these testosterone-related characteristics are frequently associated with good health, which could explain the female viewers’ perception that tattooed men were healthier.
Tattooed Relationship Potential
Does viewing a tattooed man as healthy create a desire to begin a relationship? It depends on what type of relationship the viewer has in mind. Galbarczyk and Ziomkiewic found that women judged men with tattoos as worse potential parents and partners than men without tattoos. Male viewers did not hold these views.
On this topic, they note that it might seem surprising at first that the women perceived tattooed men to be healthier but not more attractive, but pointed out that their study only assessed general attractiveness, and suggested women might find men with tattoos more attractive when considering short-term relationships, given the link with masculinity. In support of this proposition, they cite a study where women found men who had posttraumatic facial scarring to be more attractive for short-term pairings but not for a long-term relationship.
In the mix, tattoos are only one facet of what is no doubt a constellation of traits possessed by the wearer of the body art. And regarding the impact on relationship potential, many tattoos are, at the very least, conversation starters.
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References
[1] Galbarczyk, Andrzej, and Anna Ziomkiewicz. 2017. “Tattooed Men: Healthy Bad Boys and Good-Looking Competitors.” Personality and Individual Differences 106 (February): 122–25. doi:10.1016/j.paid.2016.10.051.
FAQs
Key points. In a study, women rated tattooed men as healthier but not more attractive than men without tattoos. Men viewed tattooed men as more attractive but not healthier than men without tattoos. Women judged men with tattoos as worse potential parents and partners than men without tattoos.
Do tattoos make men attractive? ›
– The Research. According to a Polish study published in the Personality and Individual Differences journal, women don't find tattooed men more (or less) attractive. They do think men with tattoos are healthier, more masculine, dominant, and aggressive, but that they make worse partners and parents.
Where are tattoos most attractive on men? ›
Top 5 Popular Tattoo Places for Men
- Biceps. ...
- Upper Arm. ...
- Forearm. ...
- Ankle. ...
- Upper Back. ...
- Wrist. ...
- Behind the Ear. Although it is a sensitive spot, getting a tattoo behind the ear is still popular. ...
- Back of the Neck. The back of the neck is one more area that is very popular for women.
Women didn't rate the inked men as more attractive overall. The bad news for pink-skinned guys is that the ladies considered them more in charge, however, and both men and women believed that the guys with tattoos were going to be better in bed than non-inked dudes.
What percent of men find tattoos attractive? ›
According to a study by Zensa Skin Care, out of 1,000 participants, 43% of them came to the conclusion that the pure artistry of a tattoo on a woman is what makes them love it. This goes to show that men love women with tattoos for more than just sex appeal. Another part of this is related to the tattoo placement.
Are tattoos masculine? ›
Tattoos are personal to someone's identity and personality. It should not matter if they are “feminine” or “masculine.” In the 19th century, tattoos were popular for wealthy socialites, including women. This trend then died down in the 20th century when body ink emerged as a symbol of masculinity.
What kind of men get tattoos? ›
In reality, as explained earlier on, all kinds of men can get tattooed nowadays, from the toughest biker dudes to the softest and kindest creative types. Often, guys with tattoos can look pretty hardcore on the outside but may have a much more sensitive side underneath.
Where do tattoos age best? ›
Tattoo Placements That Age Well
The upper arm, back, and chest are prime real estate. These areas usually face less environmental wear and tear. And if you're ever thinking of cover-up tattoos, these are the spots to consider.
Do girls like tattoos on guys? ›
Results summarized. Women, on average, find men with tattoos equally attractive and smart as men without tattoos. However, they perceive men with tattoos as slightly less trustworthy.
Where do girls find tattoos attractive on guys? ›
For those interested in men, prime real estate for a tattoo was the upper arm at a 3.8. The upper back and shoulder were not far behind, receiving 3.5 and 3.4 ratings, respectively. Those attracted to women saw a three-way tie between the upper back, shoulder and hips (with a 3.3 rating).
The criteria for a tattoo to be deemed “classy” is highly subjective. However, there are styles that are more aesthetically pleasing to even the most highfalutin eye. You will want an artist that specializes in black and grey styles, and/or a tattooist with a penchant for clean minimalist lines.
Where should guys not get tattoos? ›
Lower Back – There's just something a little off about guys with tramp stamps--seems very odd. Ankle – Guys---if you're going to get a tattoo, don't get some tiny little thing that nobody will ever see. Inside Lip – This place for a tattoo is really bad news and a waste of time and money.
Where do tattoos look the coolest? ›
The back offers a large area for stunning motifs that can be viewed from all angles. For those looking for a more discreet option, the wrist, ankle or behind the ear are good choices. These areas are smaller and offer a more subtle way to express yourself with ink.
Why do girls like guys with tattoos? ›
Girls and tattoos — the science
According to one study, women do perceive men with tattoos differently to men without ink. The research found although women didn't necessarily find the men with tattoos to be more attractive than their peers — they did see them as more masculine, healthy, and dominant.
Why do so many guys get tattoos? ›
The most commonly cited reason is to honor or remember someone or something: 69% of tattooed adults say this is either a major or minor reason they got any of their tattoos.
Why do girls like tattoos on guys? ›
Girls and tattoos — the science
According to one study, women do perceive men with tattoos differently to men without ink. The research found although women didn't necessarily find the men with tattoos to be more attractive than their peers — they did see them as more masculine, healthy, and dominant.
What do tattoos say about a guy? ›
One of the most common psychological explanations for tattoos is that they are a form of risk-taking behavior. This theory suggests that people who get tattoos are more likely to be impulsive and thrill-seeking. They may also be more likely to take other risks, such as engaging in risky sexual behaviors or using drugs.
