Tattoos are more widely accepted in society today than ever before. In spite of the growing popularity of tattoos, some people don’t think a teenager should be able to get one even with parental consent.

At least 45 states have a laws prohibiting minors from getting tattoos. As someone who has three at the age of 15, teenagers are capable of making their own choices regarding their body. Tattoos are a form of art and self expression.

Some would argue that teenagers are too “immature” to make permanent decisions for themselves and they would regret this choice for the rest of their life. If a teen has given careful consideration as to why they want it, understand it is permanently brand upon their bodies, and have their parents on board there is no harm in getting one. And as far as health risks go, as long as the tattoo is done professionally and cleaned well there is minimal risk of infection.

While there are some arguments against minors getting tattoos, tattoos are a way for one to express uniqueness and individuality. Most tattoos even have deeper, symbolic meaning behind the ink and are not just the “cool” thing to do.

When a tattoo has meaning is it is more than ink on skin. For more than a year, I thought about what I wanted and there are no regrets even though most people predicted I would have second thoughts about tattoos are such a young age.

Whether or not teens should be able to get a tattoo, should be up to the teens as they can be more responsible than given credit for and ultimately it is their body and their choice.

Sincerely,

Sydney