Teen Wants a Tattoo or Piercing? How Parents Should React!

Whether it’s to follow a trend, send a message, assert their individuality, or wear a symbolic sign, your teenager keeps telling you they want a tattoo! Even if they’re tempted to do it secretly, they need the consent of a parent until they turn 18. So, should you dissuade them from marking their body, find a middle ground, or give your consent? Let’s discuss the appropriate approach.

Adopting the Right Stance

If you understand their desire, don’t give in to every whim! It’s better to refuse before they turn 16: your child is still growing, and their body continues to change, which could stretch and distort the tattoo. This is also true for teens who don’t heal well or those with sensitive skin. Before you respond, ask what they want to tattoo and where, then try to understand their motivations: beyond the trend, the desire to get a tattoo can reflect a need to claim their body, to beautify it or to make it stand out. This desire is strong in teenagers, who are in search of identity or independence from their parents. Then, explain the risks and the fact that they will have to live with this permanent design for their entire life (even though there are costly, painful, and lengthy procedures available today to remove a tattoo. Note that some tattoos, due to their colors or the ink used, are impossible to remove. This is also an opportunity for you and your teenager to discuss their wishes, doubts, and fears. This conversation might help them think over what they really want and perhaps, to postpone their decision. Make them understand that such a decision should be well-considered and not made in haste. Also, discourage them from getting a large tattoo or one in a socially exposed area (forearms, ankles, necks, etc.): a tattoo can be a hindrance in certain professions. If you’re completely opposed, suggest a temporary tattoo (but not with black henna, which is harmful to the skin) that fades after a few months.

Choosing the Right Tattoo Artist

Your teen has finally convinced you! Now it’s time to take action. But, even if they disagree, accompany them to get tattooed because yes, you have a say in the size, design, and placement of the tattoo. Before choosing a studio, check the hygiene and sterilization practices used by the tattoo artist. According to French law, all tattoo artists must be registered with the local prefecture and must have undergone hygiene training at a certified center by the National Union of Tattoo Artists. Make sure the artist is registered and has the authorization to operate in their studio. Once home, remind them that a tattoo requires careful maintenance (changing the dressing several times a day, cleaning with an antiseptic solution, etc.). If in doubt, seek medical advice.

My Teen Wants a Piercing

The placement of a piercing is prohibited for minors without parental authorization. Unlike tattoos, piercings can be removed. Generally, parents might be more willing to agree to a piercing than a tattoo, even though for some, it’s the “marginal” or “bad influence” image that piercings convey that is bothersome. For others, it’s the risk of complications due to an allergic reaction, infection, or poor healing. Whatever your decision, take the time to calmly discuss it with your teen to prevent them from getting pierced without your knowledge, tell them that you understand their desire, but there are other ways to stand out. Also, negotiate on the location of the piercing: those on the mouth or tongue can cause tooth erosion and disrupt the oral flora. Depending on their location, some piercings can be torn out, irritate the skin, and leave scars once removed. Like with a tattoo, ensure your teen gets pierced under proper hygienic conditions (clean premises, sterilized equipment, skin disinfection, wearing gloves, etc.) and by a registered piercer. Afterwards, make sure your teen properly cleans the wound and does not expose it to the sun.