“It’s dangerous and dirty, no child of mine is getting a tattoo, especially at your age!”
This is a conversation many parents have more than likely had, and continue to have, earlier and earlier.
At what age is it acceptable to get a tattoo?
The legal age to sign for your own tattoo is 18. But some tattoo parlours will “ink” youth as young as 14 with parental consent, and most don’t ever ask for proof that the “parent” is the real guardian of the child.
With these permanent body alterations so easily available to young people, it is important to consider both sides: parents versus kids.
Contrary to most parents’ beliefs, tattoos are not a “breeding ground for disease.” Things have changed since they were young; the art of tattooing has become much more safe. All needles and ink are opened in front of you, artists sanitize and wear gloves, and after all is over they snap the needle, and explain proper care for your new “body art.”
That’s not to say tattoos can’t get infected. It’s an open wound that needs to be taken care of. Eight-five per cent of youths’ tattoo infections are due to neglect and improper care and cleaning. It’s a huge responsibility and it’s there for life, so take care of it as infections can lead to scarring.
Parents try to scare kids out of the idea by telling them how painful the procedure is. This past summer I had my first experience being “inked” and I’ll admit, it doesn’t tickle.
With tiny needles injecting ink into your skin, some pain is to be expected. But it’s not the excruciating agony often described. It is important to know what to expect.
The biggest concern parents have is what their child is getting and where.
I’ve seen too many friends get things like band names and large colourful designs that they’ll wish they had reconsidered down the road. Choosing something that you know you’ll be OK with for years to come shows the responsibility needed to get a tattoo.
Where you put it is also crucial as finding professional jobs later in life isn’t always easy with visible tattoos. Weight gain or loss, muscle toning or pregnancy can alter the original design.
Keep these things in mind when picking where you want a permanent mark on your body.
Getting a tattoo is a right of passage for all young people – but not too young. I agree with age 18 being apropriate.
The tattoo ideas I had when I was 14, when my mother said no, had changed drastically by last summer when I was old enough to sign for myself. I’m thankful now that my mother stopped me, and I understand why.
The most important thing with tattooing and young people is respect. Mom and Dad, respect your child’s wishes and do the research so they can get their ink safely. And teens, co-operate with your parents on size, location and design. You’ll thank them later.
No one wants to be the nurse changing a 95-year-old Jacob Hoggard diaper, trying to read “Hedley” on his wrinkled rear end.
Olivia Wood is a TOSH graduate and a part-time Holland College student. (The Journal Pioneer)