As much as I love helping people express themselves through tattoos, I want to be completely honest: I do not tattoo anyone under the age of 18, even with parental consent. Tattoos are a beautiful form of self-expression, but they’re also a lifelong commitment. There are several important reasons why waiting until you’re 18 is the best choice.
1. Legal Restrictions
In many places, including the BE Kanton, tattooing individuals under 18 without parental consent is illegal. While some studios might allow it with approval from parents, I choose to follow a stricter rule for everyone’s protection. Tattoo shops can face serious legal consequences for breaking these regulations, and I want to ensure my studio operates ethically and professionally.
2. Maturity Matters
Let’s face it—teenagers grow and change so much during their teenage years. Your tastes, preferences, and personal style at 16 might look very different when you’re 25. A tattoo is permanent, and what feels like the perfect design now may not align with your evolving identity in the future.
3. Health Considerations
Tattooing is a medical procedure that involves piercing the skin with needles, and it carries some health risks. Younger individuals may be more vulnerable to infections or complications, especially if their immune systems are still developing. That’s why it’s so important to wait until your body and health are fully ready.
4. Emotional and Social Impact
It’s easy to overlook how a tattoo can affect your life beyond the present moment. As a teenager, you might not yet fully grasp the long-term implications of a visible tattoo. It can impact job opportunities, relationships, or even how you feel about yourself later on.
5. Life Experience Brings Perspective
By the time you’re 18, you’ll have more life experience and a better sense of what you want. You’ll have had the chance to explore different styles, designs, and ideas, and you’ll be more confident in making a permanent decision.
Why I Follow This Rule
As a professional artist, I want every tattoo I create to be meaningful, well-thought-out, and something my clients will cherish forever. Rushing into a tattoo before you’re ready could lead to regret, and that’s something I want to help you avoid.
If you’re under 18 and thinking about getting a tattoo, I encourage you to take this time to explore your ideas, refine your vision, and think about what truly represents you. Once you’re 18, I’d love to help you bring your design to life in the most beautiful and professional way possible.
You’re more than welcome to visit me for a personal meeting to discuss your future tattoo ideas!
Best wishes,
By Noemi Kovacs, Tattoo Artist at Bern Tattoo Studio
