Mom, Dad: I want to get a tattoo.
How many times have we heard or said this phrase? But what is the minimum age for a minor to get a tattoo?
At our tattoo and piercing studio in central Madrid, 222 Tattoo Madrid, we take the law and our responsibilities as a tattoo and piercing studio very seriously.
Why is there a minimum age for getting a tattoo?
The popularization of tattoos has made them stop being considered marginal, which has led to people of all ages now getting tattooed.
Although we are moving away from the absurd idea that appearance and job performance are related (since they are not at all), in some sectors of our country there is still reluctance to hire people with visible tattoos.
According to the Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (AEDV), the percentage of young people between 20 and 40 years old who have something adorning their skin already exceeds 30%.
Setting a minimum age is important for several reasons:
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A growing body undergoes many changes, so tattoos could deform or fade over the years.
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Trends change, and what we like at 13 may seem awful at 23.
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A tattoo is forever, so the decision should be made when the person is mature and has a competent artist to advise them.
Can minors get tattoos?
According to Ministry of Health reports, studios are prohibited from tattooing minors under 18 without parental or guardian consent.
Therefore, minors can get a tattoo if they have parental consent and are accompanied by them on the day of the appointment.
The usual minimum age allowed is 16 years old.
What precautions should be taken?
In reality, the same as for adults. At 222 Tattoo Madrid we emphasize these precautions in every blog article and every visit to our studio. We don’t mind being repetitive when it comes to safety and skin health.
Some of our recommendations are:
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Don’t rush into it or get carried away by trends.
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Choose a tattoo artist qualified for the type of work you want.
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Keep in mind that black ink is the easiest to remove if you ever want to.
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Remember that the average time to remove a tattoo is around a year to a year and a half.
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Make sure the studio is certified and takes all necessary precautions: single-use gloves, disposable needles and ink cups, sterilized environment, well-organized equipment, etc.
Now that you know the minimum age for a minor to get a tattoo is 16 years, with parental consent, come with them to our studio and we’ll explain everything you need to know to make the best decision.