With Mattel’s release of “Totally Stylin’ Tattoos” Barbie (complete with tattoo gun) body art is being promoted for the tween market. According to a 2001 special report on Youth by Youth Culture, 8 per cent of teens, between the ages of 12 and 19, have tattoos. The report says tattoos are visual cues suggesting that a teen wants to be associated with the experimental, risk-taking community.
In Canada, the tattoo industry is both unregulated and unlicensed. Tattoo artists do not require any type of training, certification or licence to operate. Unfortunately, young people, particularly those under 18, are more apt to attempt to do it themselves (DIY) and risk major injury, scarring or infection.
Even if tweens and teens decide to go to a tattoo parlor, unsanitary or improper sterilization techniques have led to widespread concern over the transmission of Hepatitis B, C and HIV. In March 2009, the Peel Public Health department in Ontario advised over 3000 patrons of the Moonshin Tattoo parlor to get blood tests after it was revealed that the business failed to maintain proper records for its sterilization equipment.
In addition, there are concerns over the types of pigments used in tattoo inks, specifically azo pigments. Banned in the European Union (EU), azo pigments are a suspected carcinogen and are under investigation by the National Center for Toxicological Research. Temporary tattoos such as black henna could contain high levels of lead or paraphenylenediamine (PPD). Used to make the tattoos last longer, PPD can cause serious allergic reactions while lead can cause damage to the nervous system.
Besides these risks, many teens who get permanent tattoos regret it later. Whether it is embarrassment, negative comments or fashion concerns, tattoo removal has also become trendy. Unfortunately, laser tattoo removal can be painful, expensive and time-consuming.
But suppose you have discussed these issues with your teen and they are still adamant about getting a tattoo. Health Canada, in a pamphlet called Tattooing and Piercing (hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/life-vie/tat-eng.php), provides a list of conditions that should be investigated before selecting where to go as well as tips for minimizing the risk of infection.
As with any procedure that involves piercing of the skin, be sure your teen or tween follows all instructions for personal care after the procedure. They should be aware that blood donation is not possible for 12 months afterwards, that condoms should be used for sexual activity and sharing of razors or other body-cutting instruments should be avoided. Afterwards, should your teen suffer from tattoo remorse, be sure to avoid DIY removal kits. These acid-based products may cause dangerous skin reactions. Instead, consult a family doctor or dermatologist.
Getting any type of decorative body art is a personal choice. For anyone, teens and tweens included, it should be a thoughtful decision made after careful investigation and much level-headed discussion.
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