Choosing to get body art or a piercing is a big choice. Tattoos are often permanent, and piercings can have unwanted health effects. In some states, teens can't legally do either without the permission of a parent. But if you're considering a tattoo or an unusual piercing, there are many factors to consider. From the cleanliness and safety of the studio you choose to the risk of infection and scarring to the possibility that you might change your mind in the future, it's important to find the best information available, understand the process, and weigh the pros and cons of your choice.