Tattoos and body piercings - an increasingly popular form of self-expression - may cause medical complications, and people should carefully weigh the potential risks before getting such body modifications done, US experts say.
A report by researchers at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides an overview of the types and methods used to perform body modifications.
The report, published in the journal Pediatrics, details possible medical complications, which, while uncommon, should be discussed with a pediatrician.
It stated that while societal acceptance of tattoos and piercings has increased, there may still be repercussions.
In a 2014 survey, 76 per cent of 2,700 people interviewed said they believed that a tattoo or piercing had hurt their chances of getting a job, researchers said.
They suggest that before getting a tattoo or piercing, one should make sure the salon is sterile, clean and reputable.
The facility should be regulated by the state and provide clients with information on how to care for the area that has been tattooed or pierced afterwards. The facility should practise infection control just like at the doctor's office.
"Reputable tattoo parlours and piercing salons should provide a long list of do's and don'ts on how to care for the area that was worked on, and what signs might indicate a problem," said Cora C Breuner, Chair of the AAP Committee on Adolescence in the US.
Researchers also suggest that someone considering a tattoo should make sure that their immunisations are up to date and that they are not taking any medication that compromises their immunity.
"These services have come a long way, safety-wise, but it is best to proceed with caution," Breuner added.
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