Think before you ink!
Tattoos can be meaningful and a way to express yourself.
However, a tattoo is a permanent addition to your body so you should think carefully about getting one.
Having a tattoo removed at a later date by laser treatment is very costly and can leave scars.
Remember: It’s illegal for a person to be given a tattoo if they are under 18.
For further advice go to The Mix website
Getting a piercing
Piercings are less permanent than tattoos but can still leave scars and carry a risk of infection.
If you are going to have a piercing, make sure you use a professional body piercer.
Things to look out for:
- Sterile, surgical, single-use, disposable piercing needles must be used for body piercings.
- The artist must clean the area to be pierced with a skin antiseptic such as alcohol.
- They will also provide you with written aftercare instructions.
- If the pierced area becomes red, swollen or tender or if pus develops, you should see your doctor immediately.
Aftercare
All piercings require ongoing care until fully healed – this can take up to six months. Follow the advice given by your piercer.
“I’m worried something doesn’t look right!”
- Talk to the tattoo artist if you have concerns about tattoo aftercare steps.
- Get advice from your local pharmacist or GP if something doesn’t look or feel right during the healing process.
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Page updated on August 9th, 2024 at 02:00pm