Many teenagers are eager to get permanent art on their bodies. Whether it’s to fill their craving to rebel or to feel like they fit in. Or maybe they just want a way to express themselves and define who they are through art. At some point most teens will be turning to you, the parents, to sign off on a modification to their body. Most parents deny their child’s request, but what happens when they reach the legal age of eighteen?

Even after your pleas or threats to try and convince them not to go through with it, they’ll probably make it to the parlor eventually. Instead of going into the conversation close minded and blind, read up on ways to help your child make the decision wisely and on a level they will understand.

1. Watch a few episodes of “Tattoo Nightmares”

Tattoo Nightmares is a show where people come to the studio to get their horrible, regretful ink covered. Watching the show will be entertaining as well as informational. Your teenager can learn what a quality artist is like. They will also visually see the difference between terrible art and beautiful pieces. When getting permanent ink done on your body, the quality of art is important.

2. Think Long Term

Knowing you’ll still like the tattoos you got when you’re eighteen for the rest of your life is hard. Getting quality artwork will help, but what you get tattooed is important too. Having a meaning behind what you pick out can help. Also, taking some time to plan out the concept, placement, and size are good was to avoid regret.

3. Don’t Over Do It

Getting inked, like everything else, can become addicting. Doing something out of addiction is never a good reason to do anything, especially when the outcome will be permanent. Also, getting too much ink too soon will run the risk of getting tattoos you’ll regret.

4. Consider Coverups

Even after all the hard work you’ve put into planning their next piece, there is still a chance you’ll regret it someday. If your child can’t wait and consider their piece for a longer period of time, then they should consider how difficult their chosen piece will be to cover up.

5. Be Involved

When it comes to involvement, don’t help with the planning of the piece. But do help your teen pick out a studio that is safe, clean, and has a good reputation. Tattoos can cause infection and you can help them avoid a bad experience. Also, the laws and regulations to open a tattoo studio are few. Just about anyone can open up a shop and tattoo your child. Helping to pick out the studio will also show your child you stand behind their decision, which may lead to them listening to your other suggestions.

When discussing tattoos with your teenager, try to be calm, friendly, and open minded. Your teen is more likely to respond positively to your input if you go with this approach. The goal is to help your child make an informed, safe choice when making their tattoo decision. Because let’s face it, they’ll probably get tattooed whether your okay with it or not.