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Since starting Sixty and Me, I have come to expect the unexpected and embrace the diversity and eclectic style of women over 60. Sometimes when I look at a woman my age, I forget that behind that conservative dress and sensible shoes lurks the heart and soul of a bohemian.
We are individuals who grew up in the 1960s where individualism and self-expression were a passion and way of life. At every age and stage of life, our generation has been known for not being afraid to express ourselves.
For goodness’ sake, some time ago we saw Helen Mirren twerk!
This “Beatnik” eccentricity of so many women our age was highlighted for me some time ago when I organized a “meet-up” in my town for women over 50. As we shared our stories, two women revealed that they had just recently gotten tattoos.
I was a little surprised – because when Baby Boomers were growing up, having a tattoo was not nearly as widespread or widely accepted as it is today. In fact, many people our age might have had parents who explicitly warned us NOT to get tattoos.
But a recent Pew study confirms that, today, roughly 15 percent of American Baby Boomers have tattoos and body art.
What could be driving this sudden interest in tattoos for older women, and why is this tattoo trend noteworthy for the Sixty and Me community?
Tattoos Are Gaining Popularity with Older Women
One topic that we discuss a lot in the community is our desire to define self-expression for ourselves and reject stereotypes about aging. Who’s to say that women our age are “too old” to have a tattoo?
The last thing you expect to see on your grandmother’s arm is a tattoo of a Celtic cross or Buddhist lotus. But, for many women, getting a tattoo is a way to declare, if only to themselves, what they stand for and who they really are.
Even if you are not such an extrovert who likes to share your tattoos with the entire world, a small butterfly or flower tattoo is something that can be hidden under a sweater, but you know it’s there.
Why Are More of Us Getting Tattoos?
A tattoo can be your secret, representing your secret persona. Or a tattoo can make a personal statement to the world about your values, your independence and beliefs. Getting a tattoo gives you freedom to express yourself as a unique free spirit. Body art expresses the rebel in us and is part of how we show that we are interesting and passionate women!
Tattoos have moved past many of their negative associations and are widely accepted today. But it seems to me that, even though tattoos are more “mainstream” than they used to be, the act of getting tattoos and body art is still about connecting with a cultural “tribe” or expressing a sense of intention or purpose.
Your tattoo might make a connection to a special person, a spiritual tradition or archetype. Or it may reflect your personal life philosophy. Your tattoo might remind you of a loved one who has died, or a place you have visited, or a culture you revere.
At the end of the day, perhaps expressing a sense of purpose and feeling a connection to a tribe is what getting a tattoo is all about. Perhaps this is why they are so popular with Boomer women!
Today, Boomers Wear Their Tattoos Proudly
And I think that for older women in particular, getting a tattoo is just another expression of their newfound independence and self-awareness. Women over 60 have been around long enough not to worry about what other people think about them, and now we have the freedom to more fully express our creativity and passions in life.
So from now on, be aware that the seemingly “conservative-looking” grey haired lady next to you in the café might just have a butterfly tattoo on her shoulder – or somewhere else! There is nothing wrong with tattoos on older women; they can be another way to show our sense of adventure, curiosity, creativity and our desire to make an impression on the world.
A Beautiful Body of Work
Guinness World Record holders for most tattooed seniors, Charlotte Guttenberg, 72, and her partner, Charles Helmke, 80, are showing their fellow Boomers that tattoos are an art form for people of all ages.
While it’s true that tattooing on older skin requires a lighter touch to avoid “blowouts” (when the ink is pushed into the deeper layers of the skin, causing a smudged look), the idea that tattoos will appear deformed or unattractive on wrinkled on older skin is more of a personal opinion than a fact.
And it’s an opinion that Helmke doesn’t agree with, “That BS is just unbelievable,” Helmke says of being too old for a tattoo. “You can’t see the wrinkles with all the tattoos.”
Creative self-expression and a solution for wrinkles – genius!
While Helmke has been getting tattooed since he was a young man, Guttenberg only just got her first tattoo less than 20 years ago, after her first husband died.
And surprisingly, what led her to embark on the journey of tattooing her entire body actually began with Guttenberg’s disappointment in that first tattoo she received – a small butterfly.
The tattoo was done poorly by an inexperienced tattoo artist, leading Guttenberg to seek out a more qualified artist to cover it up.
Inspired by a painting of a full tattoo bodysuit on the wall at her new tattoo artist’s shop, Guttenberg slowly started adding to the beautiful swallowtail artwork she had done to cover-up her once unexceptional butterfly.
Eventually, all those small additions began to add up until her entire body, outside of her face, was filled with colorful and carefully inked artwork.
Making Tattoo History Together
However, before reaching full bodysuit status, Guttenberg was lucky enough to cross paths with someone that she would end up enjoying this record-breaking experience with.
While she was getting a particularly painful tattoo in 2006, Helmke happened to be visiting the tattoo shop and was asked to distract Guttenberg from the painful tattoo that she was receiving – to which he happily and successfully did.
Soon after, the two began dating and sharing every future tattoo experience together – painful or not!
“We were taking turns getting tattooed, and pretty soon we [each] had a bodysuit,” says Helmke.
While some might assume the pair embarked on this body art journey for the sole purpose of setting a world record, they both maintain that their physical transformations have been purely for their own enjoyment.
“[It’s] a perfect analogy because this is our artwork, and we choose to wear it. I have this artwork because I enjoy it,” explains Guttenberg.
And while the public reaction to the colorfully decorated pair has been mostly positive, they do receive the occasional ogling stranger or disapproving comment – but they don’t seem too bothered by it.
In fact, Guttenberg’s response is the perfect reminder that with age comes a strong and freeing sense of self-confidence, “I really am of the opinion that it’s none of my business what other people think, and it is not my responsibility to change your way of thinking.”
Helmke adds, “It’s a personal decision someone makes. You may not have any tattoos. Well, that’s okay, too.”
I think we can all agree, whatever your thoughts on tattoos or body art on older individuals may be, that Guttenberg and Helmke are an inspiring pair of beautiful, free-spirits – inside and out.
Cultural and Historical Perspectives – Tattoos Across Time and Place
Tattoos have a rich cultural history that spans centuries, often reflecting the traditions, beliefs, and social norms of a given society. For older women, the perception of tattoos has evolved significantly, shaped by cultural shifts and a growing global acceptance of body art. Let’s explore how tattoos have been viewed historically and how they continue to hold meaning in various cultures.
Historical Significance of Tattoos in Various Cultures
Polynesian Tribes
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In Polynesian cultures, tattoos have long been a sacred art form, symbolizing social status, milestones, and personal identity. Women in Polynesian societies, especially older women, often bore intricate designs to signify wisdom, life achievements, or their roles within the community.
Japan
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Traditional Japanese tattoos, or Irezumi, have a storied history. While tattoos were once associated with outcasts or criminals, they also carried spiritual and protective meanings, particularly in their connection to mythology and folklore. Modern Japanese tattoo art has influenced a global appreciation for intricate designs, and older individuals are increasingly reclaiming this heritage.
Indigenous Cultures
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Among Inuit and other Indigenous peoples, tattoos on women often marked important rites of passage, such as entering womanhood, motherhood, or elderhood. The recent revival of these practices, led by Indigenous women, highlights their cultural importance and celebrates aging as a valued phase of life.
Western Views – From Rebellion to Self-Expression
Early 20th Century
In Western societies, tattoos were often associated with sailors, circus performers, and rebels, and women with tattoos were rare. Older women with tattoos were virtually unheard of due to societal expectations of modesty and conformity.
Mid-20th Century
During the 1960s and 70s, tattoos gained popularity among subcultures, including feminists and activists, as a form of rebellion against traditional norms. Older women were still less likely to engage in tattooing, though some trailblazers began embracing the art form.
Today
Tattoos have become a mainstream expression of individuality, and older women are breaking barriers, choosing designs that reflect their personal journeys and values. The stigma once associated with tattoos, especially for women, has diminished significantly, allowing women of all ages to celebrate their stories through body art.
The Evolution of Meaning for Older Women
As societal norms shift, tattoos have transformed from symbols of rebellion or tribal identity to tools of self-expression and personal storytelling. For older women, this evolution signifies freedom from past restrictions and the opportunity to redefine beauty, confidence, and individuality. In many cultures, older women with tattoos are now seen as bold, creative, and inspiring figures, embodying the wisdom and richness of their life experiences.
Before You Get Inked – Questions to Ask Yourself
Getting a tattoo is an exciting and deeply personal decision. For older women, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on a lifetime of experiences and express individuality. Before you make the commitment, here’s a checklist to help ensure your tattoo is meaningful, well-placed, and a source of joy for years to come.
1. What Does the Tattoo Mean to You?
- Is the design connected to a specific memory, person, or life milestone?
- Does it reflect your values, beliefs, or personality?
- Will the meaning hold significance for you in the long term?
2. Have You Researched Your Design Thoroughly?
- Is the design culturally or historically significant? If so, have you researched its meaning to ensure it aligns with your intentions?
- Would you prefer a timeless style (e.g., minimalist, geometric) or something trendier?
- Do you want a custom design, or are you drawn to a specific artist’s existing work?
3. Where Do You Want the Tattoo?
- Consider visibility: Do you want your tattoo to be easily seen (e.g., forearm, ankle) or more discreet (e.g., upper back, side)?
- Think about skin elasticity: Areas like the arms, thighs, and abdomen may shift or wrinkle over time.
- Will the placement suit your lifestyle? For instance, visible tattoos may require covering in certain professional or social settings.
4. How Big Do You Want Your Tattoo to Be?
- A small, delicate design might feel less overwhelming, especially for a first tattoo.
- Larger designs allow for more detail but require more time and often multiple sessions.
- Are you comfortable with the size in relation to the chosen placement?
5. Have You Found the Right Tattoo Artist?
- Does the artist have experience working with older skin?
- Have you reviewed their portfolio to ensure their style matches your vision?
- Do they follow strict hygiene and safety protocols?
- Have you had a consultation to discuss your design and get a sense of their professionalism?
6. Are You Prepared for the Pain?
- Pain levels vary depending on the placement of the tattoo (e.g., ribs and feet tend to hurt more than arms or thighs).
- Are you comfortable sitting through a potentially long session, or would you prefer a smaller tattoo that can be completed quickly?
- Discuss numbing options with your tattoo artist if you’re concerned about discomfort.
7. Have You Considered the Longevity of the Tattoo?
- Colors and fine details may fade over time. Are you okay with occasional touch-ups to maintain its appearance?
- Will the design still feel meaningful to you as you age further?
8. Do You Understand the Aftercare Process?
- Tattoos require care in the weeks after getting them. Are you prepared to follow the aftercare instructions (e.g., avoiding sun exposure, moisturizing, and cleaning the area)?
- Do you understand the signs of infection or complications to watch for?
9. Are You Financially Prepared?
- Quality tattoos can be expensive. Have you budgeted for both the tattoo itself and any touch-ups that might be needed?
- Avoid choosing a tattoo artist based solely on price. Prioritize skill, safety, and cleanliness.
10. Are You Emotionally Ready for a Permanent Commitment?
- Tattoos are permanent. Are you ready to embrace it as a lifelong part of your appearance?
- If you’re unsure, consider starting with a temporary tattoo or henna design to test the look and feel.
11. Have You Talked to Others About Their Experiences?
Seek advice from friends or family members who have tattoos, especially those who got theirs later in life.
Ask about their process, regrets (if any), and what they might have done differently.
12. Does the Timing Feel Right?
- Are you making this decision for yourself, without pressure from anyone else?
- Have you taken enough time to reflect on your choice and weigh the pros and cons?
By working through these questions, you can feel confident that your tattoo will be a thoughtful and cherished form of self-expression. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring your tattoo becomes a source of pride and happiness for years to come.
Read 14 Exclusive Makeup Tips for Older Women from a Professional Makeup Artist.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
What do you think about tattoos for older women? Do you have a tattoo? If so, what is the design? What does it mean to you? Have you ever thought of getting a tattoo or body art? Please join the conversation.
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