In Illinois, there are laws in place regarding tattooing and body piercing of minors. It is unlawful for anyone to tattoo or pierce a minor under the age of 18 without the consent of the minor’s parent or legal custodian. The parent or legal custodian must accompany the minor to the procedure [^1^].
Piercings Available for Minors
Minors aged 14 or older can get certain piercings with parental consent and proper identification. The piercings that are allowed include:
- Earlobe piercings (no larger than 10 gauge)
- Ear cartilage piercings
- Navel piercings
- Facial piercings
- Oral piercings [^2^]
Age Restrictions for Piercings
For ear piercings, minors can get them done without parental or guardian consent. However, tattoos are not permitted for minors. Minors need written consent from a parent or guardian for body piercing and tattoos and must be present during the procedure [^3^].
Piercings Available for Different Ages
The piercings available for different age groups are as follows:
- For ages 8 and up: Ear lobe piercings
- For ages 13 and up: Cartilage piercings (Helix), Bellybutton (Navel)
- For ages 16 and up: Nose (Nostril) [^4^]
Considerations for Nose Piercings at 14
While the legal age for nose piercings may vary by state, some may argue that 14 years old is still too young to have a piercing done. Ultimately, the decision is left up to each state to determine what is legal. Even if it is legal in your state for a teenager to have their nose pierced, it is important to consider whether they are ready for it [^5^].
Second Ear Piercing for 12-Year-Olds
For parents considering a second ear piercing for their child, the ideal age is around 12 or 13. However, some recommend waiting until the child is 4 months old, as they would have received a few tetanus shots by then. Ultimately, the decision should be based on the child’s readiness and the parent’s comfort level [^6^].
Age Restrictions for Septum Piercings
For minors aged 14 to 18, written consent from a parent or legal guardian is required for body piercing. Additionally, a parent or legal guardian must be present during the procedure. No tattoos or body piercings are allowed for minors under 14 [^7^].
Tattooing for Minors
Getting a tattoo at 13 years old is not common and is not easy. Many states require that a minor be tattooed by a licensed physician or at least in the presence of one. However, in 22 states, a 13-year-old can get a tattoo legally with written parental consent [^8^].
Belly Piercing at Claire’s
Claire’s, a popular retailer, offers belly button rings and belly bars. However, it is important to note that age restrictions and parental consent may apply [^9^].
Multiple Piercings at Once
At Claire’s, two ear piercing specialists can pierce both ears simultaneously. This option is ideal for young children or anyone feeling a little nervous [^10^].
Tattooing Age Restrictions by State
The minimum age for tattooing with parental or guardian consent varies by state. In some states, such as Illinois, the minimum age is 18, except for body piercings. However, intoxicated or impaired individuals are generally not allowed to get tattoos [^11^].
In conclusion, the laws and regulations surrounding piercings and tattoos for minors vary by state. In Illinois, minors under the age of 18 require the consent of a parent or legal custodian for tattoos and body piercings. Certain piercings are allowed for minors aged 14 or older with parental consent and proper identification. It is important for parents and guardians to understand the laws in their state and make informed decisions regarding their child’s piercings or tattoos.