28 Exceptional Snake Tattoo Ideas for Daring and Confident Folks

Coming up with a unique tattoo design is both simple and challenging. While you may have your mind set on an image or design, there is always a hidden meaning to be aware of. Tattoos are pretty permanent, you know. Let’s discuss a snake tattoo, for instance. Despite the variety of snake tattoo designs available, there is a plethora of symbolic meanings to them to. If you want to discover the most inspiring snake tat ideas topped with the most common definitions and other informative backgrounds – you have come to the right place!

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Snake Tattoo Meaning

 

We want to start with the general snake tattoo, meaning, shall we? First things first, only a few people will think of something positive when they think about snakes. Snakes are dangerous and scary, and that is that. Snakes are often used as infinite symbols of poor luck, death, and other sinister insinuations. The story of Adam and Eve is definitely a subject to explore.

However, we usually miss out that snakes don’t attack people out of spite – they do so when they feel threatened. There is a reason why the most venomous snakes live as far away from people as possible. Even if they nest nearby, they try to avoid the confrontation given a chance. Besides, it’s worth reminding that snakes are quite beautiful in their own dark and mysterious fashion. The combination of the original sin and alluring but dangerous mysteriousness is what people are incredibly fond of depicting snakes on their bodies. Yet, it does not mean that a snake tat can’t be assigned with a positive connotation.

Snake Tattoo Symbolism

 

To give you a better understanding of what a simple snake tattoo may symbolize in different cultures, we have gathered the most popular meanings in a single chapter. You may want to consider the connotations before finalizing your snake tattoo ideas.

• A snake is often considered a symbol of wisdom and protection in African cultures. Snakes are often depicted as the most devout guardians of temples and sanctuaries. The symbolism roots back in ancient Egypt, where snakes were celebrated as gods’ protectors.
• Native American cultures – native Americans view snakes as the ultimate symbol of life or rebirth. Some tribes worship snakes as the governors of fertility and healing.
• Buddhist and Hinduist cultures praise snakes as deities that rule over life, death, and rebirth. They believe that just like a snake sheds its skin, a person can be reborn.

Snake Tattoos in Different Mythologies

If you think about a traditional snake tattoo, you may want to look for some ancient meanings that date back centuries. Every mythology has its peculiar view on snake symbolism. Let’s refer to the most common myths:

Greek mythology: The most famous snake-like character in Greek mythology would be the Medusa Gorgon. Although she wasn’t a snake, she had a head full of snakes instead of hair. While often, Medusa is often viewed as a negative character, very few know that she wasn’t born like that. She was corrupted by one of the higher gods and punished by the goddess Minerva for something she wasn’t to blame for. Thus, a Medusa tattoo can be a symbol of protection against danger or injustice.

Egyptian mythology: Ancient Egyptians were practically obsessed with snakes, cobras in particular. One of their goddesses, Wadjet, was often depicted with the head of a snake and the body of a woman or vice versa. Besides, snakes were usually depicted on pharaohs’ masks and crowns. Thus, a snake in this mythology stands for power and authority, let alone leadership and wisdom.

Cristian lore: According to the Book of Genesis, it was the snake who corrupted Eve to taste the forbidden apple and be banned from Eden once and for all. Christian mythology does not have it easy on snakes since, based on the formed opinion, they are the embodiment of evil and everything that describes corrupt human nature.

Japanese mythology: According to ancient Japanese myths, snakes stood for good luck and fortune. Especially if it was a white snake. What is more, in Japanese Buddhism, snakes symbolize wealth, art, and fertility.

How to Choose a Design with a Snake

Permanent ink is a lifetime dedication. Thus, you must approach the matter with caution and consideration. There are a few things to consider when choosing a snake tattoo design:

• Individual touch: Before you finalize your decision on the snake tat, think about what the creature means to you personally. It may connect with a special event, a significant change, or some individual trait you possess. The stronger the bond between you and the design, the more meaning it will bear.
• Design background: The same snake ink can be represented in a variety of styles so that it looks different and unique in every case. You may want to browse through traditional, realistic, neo-traditional, or minimalistic designs to figure out which appeals to you most.
• Size and location: Both the size and the placement of the snake tattoo will have a lot to do with the final result. For example, smaller pieces look magnificent when placed on ankles and wrists. At the same time, a more detailed, intricate tattoo will look its absolute best on a larger area such as your thigh, back, or chest.
• Artist's advice: When you find an expert well-trained in the area, they will have a lot to say on the matter, and you should better listen to seasoned advice so that the outcome is the one that makes you happy every time you look at it. Besides, a trained tattoo artist can share some valuable insights into the tattoo's symbolism and form to make it twice as meaningful and impactful.

Sketches and drafts: If you have a definite design that you want to etch into your skin, it is okay to proceed with the session straight away. However, if you are creating the piece from scratch, it is best that the artist works on a draft copy so that you can evaluate, improve, and agree on it before it is transferred onto your skin.

Snake Tattoo Combined with Flowers

Did you know that rose tattoos go well with snake art? Now you do! The combination of fragile beauty and danger carries the most mesmerizing vibe. Besides, snakes often represent transformation and rebirth, not to mention primal instincts. While flowers and roses, in particular, signify the growth and fragility of life. Fusing those elements together will result in an intricate yet powerful message that stands for life's duality.

Snake and Moon Tattoo Ideas

Those who seek a captivating and mysterious outcome should brood upon combining their snake ink with an image of the moon. Whether it is a full or crescent phase you feel attracted to, the result will be as rich in meaning. The moon, with its phases, stands for constant changes and transformation. As you melt the two into a single design, you will get a perfect visualization of the cyclicity of life and constant evolution. Finally, such a piece is appealing to look at.

Snake and Dagger Tattoo Design

Credit photo: Instagram.com/naleak_tattoo

The combo of a snake and a dagger is deeply symbolic. The thing is that snakes are pretty dangerous creatures, and daggers serve a protective purpose. Thus, as you intertwine the two, you will showcase your courage and readiness to face whatever challenges that life has to offer and overcome them with dignity and unwavering self-esteem.

Colorful Snakes Tattoos

While classy snake tattoos are popular, colorful ink is twice as requested at the moment. All because of the vibrancy and captivating effect it possesses. You can choose a plethora of shades that will make the tat truly pop, bringing it to life. Besides, you don't have to stick to realistic hues to represent your affection for these creatures. A space-colored snake art is just the tip of the iceberg of unique ideas you can dive into guided by a trained expert. You can assign each color with a specific meaning you want to encode into your snake art. Don't limit your creativity, and go to the lengths to showcase your individuality and expand your horizons.

Minimalist Snakes

As opposed to colorful snake art, there comes a minimalistic ink representation. Such pieces embrace clean lines, basic geometric shapes, and other elements. The simplicity captures the snakes' bare essence, which is still as rich in meaning as all the other styles and forms. Such a tattoo will help you stress your inner strength without shouting about it from every corner.

Tiny Snake Tattoos

You don't have to go a full-scale ink with your snake tattoo to capture its symbolic appeal and magnetic vibe. Tiny tats serve the purpose perfectly. Not to mention that these pieces are perfectly concealable so that you can keep your deepest secrets hidden from the prying eyes. Even the smallest snake tat can carry an immense symbolism, that kind of symbolism that only the wearer is entitled to.

 

Hand Snake Tattoo Designs

It is true that a snake arm tattoo or a snake hand tattoos for women are among the most popular options to choose these days. In case you have always dreamed about a snake forearm tattoo, you can use these ideas to point you in the right direction. A word of advice – if you wish to stand out from the rest, you may want to consider a stylish snake finger tattoo instead.

Thigh Snake Tattoos

 

It is true that a cool snake arm tattoo does not suit all. At times you may want your symbolic tat to remain hidden. In cases like this, you could opt for a snake thigh tattoo. As you can see, the area offers a lot of room for experimentation. That is why you can combine your snake and flower tattoo in one. Just look at this gorgeous snake and rose tattoo! Isn’t this what a true masterpiece looks like?

Back Snake Tattoo Designs

 

Another great location to have a secret tattoo would be your back. The snake spine tattoo is utterly cute and unique. You can stick to the usual black and white palette or become a little experimental and add some color to the mix. The only downside of the snake back tattoo is that you won’t be able to see it without a mirror.

Sternum Snake Tattoo

 

Some tattoos are designed to be sexier than others, and there is nothing you can do about it. While the design plays a significant part, the location also matters. According to a recent survey, men find sternum tats the most arousing. Even a mysterious snake tattoo looks hot as hell, don’t you think?

Leg Snake Tattoos

Another substitution for a snake tattoo on arm would be a leg piece. While the canvas is grand, you don’t have to explore some large designs to satiate your need for some snake ink. A tiny ankle tattoo looks as gorgeous.

How to Find a Good Tattoo Artist

Even if you have the most admirable tattoo design in mind, it takes a skilled artist to transfer it to your body with every tiny line and detail preserved. That is why you should approach your tattooist search with all the enthusiasm you've poured into the design quest.

First things first, you must locate the expert who specializes in the style you are up for. After that, it takes a fair share of online browsing to read the reviews and feedback. The next logical step would be to go to the salon to see how neat and professional it looks, don't be afraid to ask about licenses and certificates. In case all the stars align, you should schedule a consultation with the artist to confirm that you are on the same page.

Keep in mind that your instincts are to be listened to. Should you feel ill at ease around the person, or anything else seems to go south, it is a good idea to reconsider the collaboration and continue your search until you find the person you feel comfortable around.

How to Care About Your Fresh Snake Tattoo

Now, when you are fully aware of the roots and symbolic background of snake tattoos, it is time to figure out how to care about fresh ink. No matter how small a snake tattoo of yours will be, you must take steps to ensure that it heals properly.

• Make sure your tattoo artist applies some petroleum jelly before wrapping your new ink up.
• Try not to remove the applied bandage sooner than the artist recommends.
• After removing the bandage, wash your fresh red snake tattoo with gentle soap and warm water. Don’t leave the area wet. Pat it dry.
• Apply the recommended lotion or ointment on the area at least twice daily, and try not to cover your tattoo up.
• Wash the area at least twice a day and dry it out properly each time.
• Moisturize the area well so that it heals fast and adequately.
• Try not to go out sunbathing and to swim before the tat heals.
• When the tattoo starts to itch, cover it up with more moisturizer but never scratch or try to remove scabs that will cover it eventually.

Getting a snake tattoo may be controversial due to cultural background. However, when you decide to get inked, the only thing that matters is what you put into the chosen design. If you still want to get a snake tat, our recent inspiration update will surely come of help!