For the first time ever, the American Association of Pediatrics released guidelines Monday for teens and young adults who are considering getting a tattoo or non-earlobe piercing.
The guidelines can be summed up with two facts: 1) Make sure you choose a place that is clean and reputable; and 2) Tattoos and piercings can affect your ability to get a job.
The recommendations cite a 2014 survey by the Pew Research Foundation where 76-percent of participants said they believed their tattoo or piercing had affected their ability to get a job. In addition, 39-percent of participants said they believe an employee's visible tattoos and piercings reflect poorly on the employer.
Do you think it's ok for teens to get tattoos or piercings (other than the earlobes)?
— 7 Eyewitness News (@WKBW) September 18, 2017
In New York State, it is illegal for minors under the age of 18 to get a tattoo, even with parental consent. Teens can, however, get body piercings with parental consent.
The recommendations will appear in the October 2017 issue of "Pediatrics."
The American Association of Pediatricians offer resources for talking to your teen about tattoos and piercings.
