Health Updates
Teens and Tattoos
More than anything, Lisa wants a tattoo. "It would look so cool," she tells her friend Yvette. "Besides, everyone else has one."
Yvette knows this isn't true. She also knows that tattoos can carry serious health risks. Do you know what Yvette does? If not, read on.
Skin Danger
Tattoos have increased in popularity among teens and adults. Many go in for these adornments because they see their favorites celebrities wearing them. More and more tattoo shops are opening up. Many advertise on the Internet.
What the tattoo industry often doesn't tell you are the dangers. Some tattoo inks contain color additives that are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for contact with or injecting into the skin.
Playing the Odds?
If you want to get tattooed or pierced, you'd better face up to the fact that your gambling with your health. Here are some of the more serious risks:
- Infection. A contaminated needle can transmit a number of serious diseases. These include hepatitis B and C, syphilis, and even HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Note that infection can also occur if the tattooed or pierced area is not cared for properly, especially during the first week or so.
- Problems with removal. If you ever want to have the tattoo removed—and you are likely to—it's expensive. Insurance does not cover it. It is also painful and usually requires several visits to the tattoo shop. Scarring is common.
- Allergic reactions. You won't know you're allergic to the inks in a tattoo until you actually get one. You can even develop a reaction to a tattoo you've had for years. You can also have an allergic reaction to the metal in a stud piercing.
If none of these reasons are enough to make you at least question the decision to get a tattoo or piercing, then at least find out what the law is in your state. In many states, it's illegal for teens to get a tattoo without a parent or adult guardian's permission.
The No. 1 Problem: Dissatisfaction
By far the most common problem people have with tattoos is not being happy with the results. Many teens and adults simply don't like the tattoo, get tired of it, or wish they hadn't ever gotten it. Often, this happens shortly after receiving one.
Skill levels vary among tattoo artists. Did you know that injecting the ink too deeply into the skin can create a blotchy, blurred image. Do you want to wear someone else's mistake—permanently?
Here's another problem: In today's society, styles change fast. A tattoo that looks cool one year may not the next. It can become dated and embarrassing before you know it.
One more thing: As a teenager, your body is still growing and changing. As you grow and mature, your skin stretches and your body shape changes. The tattoo you get today may not look the same in a year or two. This is especially true if you spend a lot of time in the sun.
The Truth Hurts
Tattoos can be removed in several ways. The most common is laser treatment, but it can cost hundreds of dollars. The laser can change the natural color of your skin. It can also cause the tattoo ink to turn into a less desirable shade instead of removing the tattoo.
Other methods include scraping the tattoo off the skin or applying an acid solution. Both leave scars. Sometimes, instead of removing it, the old tattoo can be covered with a new one. However, the new ink may not look natural.
Temporary Tattoos
One alternative is to get a temporary tattoo. These are applied with a cotton ball, not a needle. The tradeoff is that last for only several days.
What's more, the FDA has issued an alert regarding temporary tattoos made in foreign countries. Some of these products may contain color additives that are not FDA-approved. These may also cause allergic reactions.
Just the Facts
- Describe two of the risks posed by getting a tattoo.
- What are some of the problem with getting a tattoo? Which do you find the most troubling? Why?
Beyond the Facts
- Teens often want tattoos in order to be "part of the crowd" or to express themselves. What would you say to a teen who felt this way?
- Some people think temporary tattoos are harmless and okay for teens and children to use. What advice would you have for a neighbor who gave his or her 8-year-old child permission to get a temporary tattoo?
Applying the Facts
Many people get tattoos out of vanity, but some tattoos are acceptable for medical reasons. Using print or online resources, research what medical conditions often call for some type of tattoo. Share your findings with the class.
