Teens have always tried to walk the line between "fitting in" with their peers and being individuals with their own identities. While fashion and hairstyles have been popular forms of expression, body art and tattoos are the new canvas. It is estimated that over 25% of adults have tattoos -- and this number is rising all the time. Dr. Gordon Searles, MD, advises caution when considering a tattoo. "We need to be mindful," he said. "A tattoo is much more permanent than a new hairstyle and there can be serious health consequences if it is not done properly."

Searles has some advice for anyone of any age considering a tattoo: 1.It is critical that everything that touches your skin is sterile to avoid infections such as hepatitis or HIV. Since tattooing is a bloody procedure, care must be taken to avoid contamination of the ink, the needles, the machine and the artist. While the government does provide standards for tattooing procedures, you must take responsibility in ensuring that your artist follows the rules.

2.The tattoo site needs to be properly cared for after the procedure. The skin remains shredded for about one week, so it needs to be cleansed and dressed properly to avoid infection. 3.Some people become allergic to certain ink colours. Red, yellow and blue-green inks contain metals that can cause an allergy, resulting in red, itchy and lumpy skin. If this happens, it is very difficult to control without removing the tattoo.

While tattoos have been around for centuries, and modern techniques have made tattooing safer, Searles offers one last piece of advice. "Obviously the tattoo is permanent,, so if you are sure this is how you wish to express yourself, be certain the design is what you want. It will be a lot harder and more costly to get it off than itwas to get it in the first place."