Ankle Tattoos

What is an Ankle Tattoo?

Ankle tattoos are generally thought of as being any tattoo that is inked on the extreme lower calf, all the way down to the ankle bone. Those tattoos that are done higher on the leg, above the bony part of the ankle (medically known as the "talus") are less painful, and often can be larger in size than the tattoos that take place on the ankle and foot region. This is because the lower part of the leg tends to be fleshier than the foot itself. Tattoos above a certain point on the calf are usually more appropriately termed leg tattoos.

Getting an Ankle Tat

The location of the ankle can sometimes make the process of getting a tattoo difficult. You will need to be able to recline on a bench or tattoo chair in order for the tattoo artist to reach your ankle, and getting the tat itself may be painful. Additionally, because your ankle is at the end of an extremity, tattoos here may tend to bleed a bit more than in other areas of the body. Be prepared to elevate your leg (ie, don't get an ankle tattoo right before walking a long distance) in case of swelling, irritation or bleeding. The higher your ankle ink is placed, the better it will survive years of wear (your calf is less likely to wrinkle) so this is also something to keep in mind.

Aftercare

As with any tattoo, aftercare of an ankle piece is important. Make sure to keep your new tattoo protected from the elements with a salve. Two that are highly recommended are Tattoo Goo and Bag Balm. Most tattoo shops today frown on the use of an ointment such as Bacitracin. Wear loose fitting pants or stockings for the first week while the tattoo heals (no boots either!). Allowing tight clothing to rub on a new tattoo can cause extra peeling and loss of ink color and brightness. Keep your ankle tat out of the sun if possible (after healing), and if not - use at least SPF 15 sunblock.

Ankle Ink Ideas

Many women choose an ankle tat because of the fact that it can easily be shown or covered with just a quick change of clothing. Often, a sock is all you need to hide the evidence that you are sporting a tattoo. Women also tend to wear shoes and clothing that show this area off (especially in summer) so it's a good place to get a tat if you want to accentuate your leg shape.

As the ankle tattoo is more of a feminine tat, many choose to have "girly" images inked here. These include flowers, butterflies and fairies, as well as other more womanly images. Hearts, as well as kanji and celestial bodies, are also seen in this area.

Tattoo Idea Resources

• TattooJohnny has a large gallery of ankle designs to look at and get ideas of your perfect tattoo
• Bullseye Tattoos has many flash versions of butterflies for sale, perfect for that fluttering ankle tat.
• Tattooartists.org has a gallery of foot and ankle tattoos for more inspiration

The small size of most ankle tats means that many people choose their tattoo from among the flash art displayed at tattoo studios, which is another (free) option for your tattoo design.