The lives of average teenagers are filled with perceived angst, usually due to society's pressure to conform, and more and more of them seek to reclaim independence by permanently marking the own skin. A survey conducted by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that 36 percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and 29 have at least one tattoo (Associated Press). However, the study did not take into account minors who had tattoos, likely due to the fact that 39 states have laws prohibiting minors from getting tattoos and thirty-one states have laws prohibiting both body piercing and tattooing minors without permission of parents (National Conference of State Legislatures). However, the focus of this document will be the state of Texas and the Texas Health and Safety Code Ann. §146.012, which “Prohibits any person from placing a tattoo on a person under 18 years of age without the consent of a parent or guardian who believes it is in the best interests of the minor to cover an obscene or offensive tattoo. The consent required may be the physical presence of the individual's parent or guardian or evidence that he or she is the parent or guardian of the person undergoing the tattoo” (National Conference of State Legislatures). Although the law prohibits minors from getting tattoos in Texas, there may be heated debate in families as minors try to convince their parents to give them permission to get tattoos. Minors need to realize that tattoos are permanent and that waiting until they are of age will give them a better sense of judgment when it comes to leaving permanent scars on their bodies. Much of the non-tattooed population doesn't truly understand the process of tattooing, and how it has become safer. However, the process of ...... middle of paper ...... care for their tattoo if they want it to heal quickly and be as bright as possible" (Beckerman). Relying on a minor to do it could make them adults better, but learning to take time for big decisions is a lesson that will help them move forward in life on a much smoother path. Works Cited Associated poll shows that 24 percent of Americans aged 18 and 50 Year Olds Are Tattooed Web. March 14, 2012.Beckerman, Gerry. Interview with "Inkslinger" Tattoo Artist Karen L. Hudson, March 13, 2012. web.Bernstein, Niel How to Keep Your Teenager Out of Trouble and What to Do If You Can . New York City: Workman Publishing Company Inc., 2001. Print. Dickson, Amy. "Why Not Tattoo" (1999): 41. Print. National Conference of State Legislatures. Web. March 14, 2012. Tattoos April 2009. Web. March 14 2012.