Body piercings and tattoos aren't just among young rebels anymore. You'll even find them on mothers and professionals. But if you've thought about creating "art" on your body with a body piercing or tattoo, you should consider not only the design or placement, but also the potential health risks and permanence that many come with one. Read these important tips on how to choose the right establishment and possibly avoid infection, skin reactions and disease.

While body piercings and tattoos may be a creative way to express individuality, they do come with certain health risk. Keep in mind that getting either is a form of altering your body, even when they are done safely. This because the body's skin being punctured, which can easily lead to infections and skin reactions. Here are some specific health risks of tattoos and piercings that must be taken into consideration before getting one done.

Tattoo dyes can cause an itchy rash, particularly red, dye, even years after the initial work. With body piercings, just like in the ears, jewellery that is made of nickel or brass can also cause allergic reactions.

Signs that you have a piercing infection include swelling, redness, warmth and discharge. While naval piercings may look cute especially on a toned tummy, thet can take the longest to heal.

The skin disorders from tattoos include keloids, raised skin with excessive scarring and bumps called granulomas, both caused by the tattoo link.

The most serious risk is blood-borne disease like hepatitis, tetanus and HIV AIDS, which be transmitted from needles that have not been changed or sterilized.

Oral complications may also arise from tongue or lip piercings. The jewellery not only causes oral infections, but also cracked teeth and gum damage, which can lead to gum disease.

Not only do piercings and tattoos pose serious physical risks, you many regret your decision later. Tattoos are permanent. While lasers and dermabrasions can help in removing a tattoo, both can be expensive, painful, lead to scarring and aren't 100% guaranteed. The decision to mark your body should not be taken lightly, and shouldn't be a spur of the moment decision. Do your research and think carefully. If you do decide that piercing or tattooing your body is right for you, follow these few tips when choosing an establishment to help avoid potential health risks.

* Make sure the professional uses an autoclave (a heat sterilization machine). All non-disposable equipment is sterilized by the machine.

* All equipment that can't be sterilized by an autoclave should be disinfected with a commercial disinfectant or bleach solutions.

* All equipments should be removed from sealed packages by professional with fresh gloves. This includes the needle, tubes, pigments, trays and containers.

* Stay away from a piercing gun. They can't be sterilized by an autoclave and can cause excessive trauma to the area.

* The professional's hands must be washed directly before the procedure and must always wear a pair of fresh latex gloves.

* If you don't feel confortable with the artist, leave. He or she shouldn't hesitate to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Make sure the professional is certified.

With all of this information to remember and consider, don't forget to carefully consider your choice of piercing or design and the place that you will be happy with it in five, 10 or 50 years from now. This may be the most difficult decision you face. Whatever you may choose, be safe and be sure.