I remember when my older brother came home with a pierced ear when we were younger and my dad freaked out. And my dad told us we'd better never come home with a tattoo. LOL. To my knowledge, my brother never did. And I am tattoo-free as well.

But this makes me wonder if parents are more relaxed about this kind of thing today. Will I care of Jack wants to pierce his nose or ear? Will I care if he gets a tattoo? I don't know.
I have the luxury of some time to think about it! LOL.

If you are a parent grappling with this issue right now, here is what you should know before you give your child the OK.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/tattoos-and-piercings/MC00020/METHOD=print

I wouldn't care a bit if my eldest came home with piercings or a mohawk or pretty much anything. I might be slightly unhappy about a tattoo, since they're so hard to get rid of, but it's not hurting anyone. I never understood why parents get so upset about haircuts, though. I mean, hair grows. It's an easy, harmless way for kids to express themselves.
My brother had an earring & a mullet when we were teens, by the way (LOL).
He is now a captain in the Marine Corps.

I dont' think I would mind if my LO got a piercing or a tattoo, when he is old enough to make that decision for himself. I probably would make him take some time to think over a tattoo, being pretty permanent and all, but piercings are easily removed if you change your mind. I for one, had a tongue ring for a brief time when I turned 18. My parents didn't like it, but they weren't that upset. They probaly knew I would grow out of it. My DH has a tattoo on his arm he got when he was 17(it was done by a friend) that he really wants to get covered by something else now. I agree with DistractedMom about the hair. It is an easy way for kids to express themselves that they otherwise don't get to.