Kids/ Tattoos - What Age is Acceptable

[Jaydaan]

As a mother of 4, (19yr, 17yo, 16yo and 11yo) I have to say we have had this discussion a few times in our house. However I have told each of them the same thing. Tattoos are permanent, they fade, the skin may stretch over the years (depending on where the tat is. I suggested they wait until after they are done college, before they decide they *have to have one* No tattoos until after they are adults (one is, and she is not interested)

That being said, I have allowed ear piercing (2 holes, and one cartalige limit) and hair styles/dyes. The piercings you can take out and most likely they will grow over. No body piercings again, until they are over 18. As an esthetican, I have tried to show they the bad facial piercings I have seen. I show they what something cool may look like in 20 years. They have all said, ewww. The only facial piercing I would not gripe about (after they are of age) is a nose peircing. These can be quite nice.

They can grow or cut thier hair, dye it purple with pink stripes if they want. This gives them some creative espression/control and be *cool* with no after effects. (other than the goofy pictures mom can use as embarassment later!) I make them tell me what they are planning, and go with them to have it done. I figure 3 months of neon hair is much better than an impulsive body peirce or tattoo.