The Psychology Behind It

Recently, I met two nurses with tattoos and asked, “Why did you get them?”

Both got inked after 40. Their answers? Not just aesthetics, but identity, psychology, and perception.

Thinking about why tattoos become more appealing later in life, I revisited the halo effect and Daniel Kahneman’s System 1 & System 2 thinking (from Thinking, Fast and Slow).

• System 1 is fast and emotional—driven by instinct.
• System 2 is slow and logical—stepping in for big decisions.

The Halo Effect: How Perception Shapes Reality

We judge based on first impressions. If a brand feels premium, we assume all its products are top-notch. Tattoos work the same way—seen as rebellion in youth but as self-expression in midlife.

Most tattoos before 40? System 1: impulse, rebellion, fun.
Tattoos after 40? System 2 takes the wheel: deeper meaning, self-awareness, and intention.

Why Ink Feels Different After 40

• Life Experience = Meaningful Tattoos. Marking transformations—loss, love, personal growth.
• Strategic & Symbolic Choices. Thoughtfully placed, carefully designed. A mix of impulse (System 1) and intention (System 2).

A Look at Real Stories

Beverlie Manson, 76, a children’s book illustrator, got her first ink in her 70s, after meeting the heavily tattooed man who would become her third husband. She, too, had not been much of a fan until she saw her husband naked. “The first time he and I got our kit off, I was shocked,” she says. “But it’s so aesthetically interesting.” His tattoos were random – she mentions the words “special fried rice”, in the relevant Chinese script, inked on his leg – and she decided to follow suit, with a line heart on the front of her left shoulder.

Next time you see someone with a tattoo, ask them about it. Chances are, there’s a great story behind the ink.

Beijos,

Babi

letter-b.com

https://barbaracraveiro.substack.com/p/the-halo-effect