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Currently, the most popular forms of body art are tattooing and body piercing. Studies have estimated that 25 percent of all 18 to 25 year olds from a variety of social classes are tattooed.
Myrna Armstrong, Ed.D., R.N., regional dean of the Anita Thigpen Perry School of Nursing at Highland Lakes, says people need to be careful when deciding to decorate their bodies.
Although removing jewelry can reverse most piercings, older piercings may shrink but do not close, especially if stretched. Small scars usually form on closed piercings.
Almost all tattoos can be lightened through laser tattoo removal, but because some pigments respond individually to specific lasers, not all inks will disappear after treatment.
Laser tattoo removal also is expensive and is not covered by insurance. For example, a 2-inch by 2-inch tattoo can cost between $35 and $50, but the cost to remove the same size tattoo can range from $1,000 to $1,500.
If you are planning to get any kind of body art:
Thoroughly consider design and placement
Research the tattoo or piercing artist
Pay close attention to aftercare procedures. Body jewelry should be surgical stainless steel, at least 14 karat gold, niobium or titanium.
To prevent the spread of illnesses such as HBV, tetanus or HIV, artists should have clean, washed and gloved hands; sterile equipment and new ink; disposable razors when shaving; should be members of a national association; and should be willing to show photos of their work.