Make sure the technician performing the procedure is not chemically affected either. Getting a piercing or tattoo needs to be a personal decision. You have the ultimate say over your appearance, and what you do to your body. Understand that you do not have to tattoo or pierce your body to belong, or fit in, even if a friend tells you otherwise. Have a licensed professional perform the piercing or tattooing.
Professionals have industry standards and state regulations to uphold.
They must provide a safe and hygienic setting to perform the procedure. A professional will be happy to show you their license. If you decide to have a tattoo or body piercing, never tattoo or pierce your own body or let a friend do it because of potential complications. The work area should be clean and follow national guidelines to prevent blood contamination. The technician should wear protective gloves and needles should be packaged in sterile containers - make sure you see the technician open a sterile container and load the needle prior to performing a procedure.