Skull tattoos have been a very common design amongst man and women for many years now. Most who wear this type of ink on their body usually have a reason and or meaning behind it. This design does not always mean what it resembles which is a gothic, dark, and negative image.
One of the most common definitions for this symbol are death and mortality. Other symbolic purposes for this image include power, strength, protection, overcoming death or hard times, and also representing ones past life.
They were once thought to be the domain of so called “tough guys” including bikers, gang members, thugs, etc. These people most likely used this type of image to make them look mean and intimidate other individuals. However, this tattoo today has begun to take on a whole new perspective and has became more popular than ever. 
These tats are no longer made for men just to look cool, scary, or mean. These designs today are even seen on very gorgeous women as well, to express their likings for the art. Many people will be seen with added features to their skulls such as crossbones, spider web, rose, gun, etc.
Throughout ancient art this design was mainly used as a protective symbol to intimidate or scare off evil spirits. Examples such as someone overcoming a life threatning experience or illness, this symbol may be used to express their success in the battle to survive. But again in some cultures this design will have quite different meanings.
Many people are familiar with one of Mexico’s celebrations called “The Day of the Dead.” Skulls are used to celebrate loved ones who have past away and to enjoy and appreciate their time on this Earth.
Also this design was very popular among the Hinduism and Buddhism religions. Yama, who is the Buddhist Lord of the Dead, has five heads that surround his body, each of them representing his conquest for pride, anger, greed, ignorance and envy. In Hinduism the Goddess of Death wears a necklace assembled of skulls and is very well known in this religion.
Skull tattoos are very unique and may not be the perfect tat for anyone. But you never know with so many different designs to choose from this may just be the one you were looking for!
