The Safety of Tattoos and Piercings

Body art is "a way of creating their [the students'] own rite of passage for something that's missing in our society," said Judith Sarnecki, associate professor of French at Lawrence University, Appleton, WI. It has also come to be known as a form of self-expression.

All 50 states and the District of Columbia have laws governing tattoos and piercing. Generally speaking, no one can get tattooed or pierced until they are of age. In most states, the legal age is 18; in others it is 21. Body art practitioners must also adhere to numerous regulations and local ordinances. "Not only is every state different, but also, every county, township or municipality can have different and sometimes contradicting laws," said Katrina Hegge, executive director of the Alliance of Professional Tattooists (APT). Enforcing all of these laws is a separate matter; according to officials, the bans and age limits are rarely enforced.

Both body piercing and tattooing carry a risk of infection, but health risks and medical complications are more likely with piercings. A recent study reported at the American Osteopathic Association's Annual Convention suggests that ear piercing could be an avenue for transmission of pathogens after the initial healings of the pierced site. A number of blood-borne pathogens and other bacterial infections are possible with any tattoo or piercing, including hepatitis B and HIV.

What should you look for when deciding to have a tattoo or piercing done?

• A good operator who adheres to the practices of the Association of Professional Piercers, or the Alliance of Professional Tatooists (APT), and who observes the following practices:
• Clean premises and facilities are maintained.
• New needles are used for each client.
• New disposable gloves are worn each time.
• Strict attention is paid to safe hygiene practices at all times.
• They are pleased to answer any questions.

Personal cleanliness is of the utmost importance after a piercing or tattoo is done.

• Use an anti-bacterial soap and warm water to wash the area at least twice a day.
• Pat tattoos dry with a clean cloth and do not rub.
• Do not pick or scratch the area.
• Always wash your hands before touching the area.
• Swimming is not recommended until a tattoo is healed.
• Keep tattoos out of direct sunlight as they may burn.
• Occasionally use salt water and a cotton bud, if there is a slight infection, as this helps the healing process.
• Do not wear dirty clothing as this may transfer germs and cause infection.
• If you develop an infection, seek medical advice immediately!

Signs of an infection include inflammation or 'redness' of the site, unusual soreness or pain, and continuing discharge of pus or matter. If you are in doubt, consult a doctor.