It seems as though everyday someone else in Keyser High is sporting another hole in their body or more ink on their skin. What’s brought on this sudden interest in piercing and tattoos?

According to http://www.jour.unr.edu/outpost/specials/genx.tattoo1.html, trend and rebellion are turning out to be the main reasons. This statement seems to hold true according to students at Keyser High.

One student, Megan Greco, states about her new tongue ring “ I wanted to do something to show that I’m 18 and I have a lot more freedom now.”

Another student, Brandon Swick, states, “It makes me feel manly” as the reason for getting his tattoo.

Ramona Dinoso who also recently got a tattoo said, “I wanted to do something on my own, something I would always remember, without having my mom’s permission. It was my form of independance.”

However, students seem to be jumping into

these decisions before thinking through the possible hazards and side effects that come with getting these trends.

According to http://www.webmd.com/hepatitis/news/20030311/tattoo-piercing-still-risky, today there are still unsterile needles being used in tattoo parlors, which are resulting in HIV and Hepatitis infections from unsuspecting teens. Alongside these infections, teens have the risk of never being able to get rid of the holes on their face from piercing should they decide to remove them, or they can become infected long-term.

An anonymous source states, “I take care of my bellybutton piercing the way I was told to, but it still becomes infected on a regular basis.”

Therefore, teens need to make sure they call and visit the shops before actually getting their tattoo or piercing on themselves. If they feel they still want to get one then once it’s been done make sure they ask of the care that needs to be taken with it to ensure a less likely chance of infection.