Tattoos & Piercings

Tattoos

More people than ever are getting a tattoo. If you are thinking about getting one, you should not rush into it. Piercings can be removed but a tattoo will be there for life. Remember too that it is a criminal offence to tattoo anyone under 18 unless a qualified medical practitioner does it for medical reasons. Someone who tattoos anyone under 18 can be prosecuted unless they show they had good cause to believe the person was over 18.

Over 18 and thinking about a tattoo? Here's a few things to think about first:

Does the design mean something to you? If you think you know what you want, waiting for a while might help you know for sure.

Is it part of a trend? A tattoo of a rock band might seem like a cool idea now, but in 20 or 30 years time it may just look silly.

It may be a good idea to get a temporary tattoo - these last for weeks or months and might help you decide if you want one permanently

Where on your body will you have it? It is a good idea to have it somewhere that won't be obvious at work.

The only way to remove a tattoo is through expensive laser surgery which will probably leave a large unattractive scar.

If you do decide to go for it, you need to make sure that you go to a good tattoo artist who can do the job properly and will use safe, sterilised needles. Find an artist with a good reputation. The Tattoo Club of Great Britain can give you advice on getting a tattoo for the first time.

Piercings

Piercings can be removed and usually heal over, but scars can sometimes be left. There is also a risk of infections if you have a piercing. It is important to find a good clean place to have your piercing done. If you don't know what you are looking for, when finding a good place for piercing, why not read the guidelines on the NHS site.

There are some real risks from piercings, especially if you don't look after the piercing when it is done - do check them out on the NHS site.