It is common knowledge that since the 2000s, piercings and tattoos have become very trendy and popular, particularly amongst teenagers. So why do this generation feel the need to ‘graffiti’ and ‘puncture holes’ on their body?
Maybe it’s seen as an act of rebellion against the judgy nature of the older generations. The ability to decorate your body with personal drawings or letters and place pretty jewellery in untouched skin is an incredible way for teenagers to express themselves. Having piercings myself, I find that it accentuates my outfits and elevates my confidence by having accessories on my body. ‘It’s a lot of hassle for a very small result’, but that’s the thing about body decoration, it may seem small and insignificant to a stranger’s eye, but to you it adds the bit of pizzazz sometimes need.
For the majority of the time, tattoos are meaningful and often celebrate the life, death or birth of another precious being. Or maybe it’s just a design that again, increases confidence and proves your artistic individuality. It says a lot about people who judge this type of expression as they comment on someone else’s body and what they choose to do with it which fuels an insecure society. Why can’t people show off their midriff to let their new belly piercing shine? Why can’t people wear an open-back top to show the aesthetic tattoo they just paid a lot for?
It’s trendy for a reason and it genuinely does make you feel more confident to show areas that you maybe feel insecure of.
I agree the healing process can be daunting but more often than not, it’s rather low maintenance with a chamomile teabag in the evenings or a bit of salt water.
The only controversy I see as being valid in the discussion of piercings specifically is when you see 2-3 year olds who can just about sit up in the chair getting their ears pierced without knowing what’s about to happen. I understand in Hinduism, it is a ceremonial practice for children to have their ears pierced between the first and fifth birthday and that I believe to be acceptable, but other than for religious purposes, I believe the child should at least be of an age where they can decide for themselves and be fully conscious of what’s happening to them.
If you’re considering a piercing or even a tattoo, I suggest you do it! Someone once told me I can’t be showing my body respect if I cover it in piercings, but I say how can I show my body any more love than by decorating it with beautiful jewels?