Try renaming the folder documents\electronicarts\thesims3 to documents\electronicarts\thesims3_Backup and then start the launcher to create a new folder. Then install one tattoo and go back in the game to see if it shows up.
All other content will be gone but it's still in that backup folders, so not to worry.
If it does, you can start moving the files over from the backup folder, starting with options, savesgames etc. You probably need to reinstall all cc but it means something you have installed is conflicting with the tattoos.
You'll find a more detailed explanation here: http://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-3/FAQ-Troubleshooting-Steps/td-p/714/jump-to/first-unread-message