Tattoos could lead to more than just regrets
Using an unregistered tattooist could damage your health and lead to permanent scarring. That's the warning from the Local Government Association who want tougher sentences for the unlicensed tattooists known as 'scratchers'.
It is illegal to tattoo someone else unless you are licensed by the local authority. The LGA also wants more warnings on DIY tattoo kits that can be bought legally online.
Tattoos are now mainstream. It's reckoned around a fifth of adults in the Uk have one. The Bristol Tattoo Club has thousands of members.
The consequences of going to an unregistered tattooist can last a lifetime.
It's taken Kerry Peacock 17 years to feel comfortable about showing her shoulder in public. As a teenager she had a tattoo done by an unlicensed tattooist.
Despite laser treatment, Kerry was still troubled by scarring from that original tattoo and has now had the area covered by another - this time done by a registered tattoo artist…Kerry deeply regrets her decision all those years ago
The Local Government Association wants tougher sentences for those who tattoo outside the law. It means they don't have to follow safety checks. They may not sterilise their equipment properly and could be working in kitchens or sheds - putting people at risk.
It is not illegal to tattoo yourself and the LGA also wants more warnings included in DIY tattoo kits that can be bought on the internet.
No-one expects the appetite for tattoos to decline any time soon but the message from the authorities is clear… make sure you choose your artist very carefully.