While any tattoo is a statement one way or another — most often about social norms — skull tattoo designs are some of those most profound and complex forms of visual communication in body art. This is because a skull is naturally symbolic of death, but not every skull design automatically means doom and gloom. In fact, many celebrate the simple mortality by reminding everyone who looks upon it to live their life to the fullest. While these tattoo designs for men are among the most popular (and least popular for women), there are a large number of designs that express different emotions.

The traditional pirate skull tattoo pictures that are common in every tattoo parlor the world across are meant to identify the individual receiving the tattoo as a free spirit who does not adhere to norms or even laws, instead pursuing pleasure and happiness at all costs. Likewise, a flaming skull often means a strong personality with a penchant for adventure, especially that of a rough and tumble nature. The dragon skull tattoos designs are different from other skulls, as they symbolize fantasy, imagination, and daydreaming beyond the normal constraints of everyday life.

A well known tattoo is that of a snake curled up within a skull. While having great meaning due to the Harry Potter iconography, the original lore of this design actually refers to the life giving powers of serpents. Just like a medicine logo has two curled up snakes, so does a snake and skull tattoo represent vitality and vigor. An angelic skull can be one of great faith and piety, seemingly contrary to the counter culture nature of tattoos in general. Cross tattoo designs incorporate faith with the basic skull shape, so that the meaning of mortality is a reminder of religious dues and debts.

Like all tattoos, a skull design will be painful for the first days after application. It is important not to rub it or add additional bandages, or else the area may become infected or the ink smear across an area and ruin the picture. The thickest skin is the best for accommodating the ink, so the choice is often for the back, arms, or legs — which also give it the greatest exposure. As a skull is naturally white, they may have artistry or lettering across it that will be visible from far away.

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Filed under: Skull Tattoos

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