Advice with Teenage Daughters & Piercings

[steinspinne]

I honestly don't see any problem with it. Tattoos are permanent, so of course one should wait at least until they are of age to commit. Piercings are really no big deal, IMO. Especially a navel piercing. It is small, concealed, and should she ever tire of it she can take it out and let it grow back.

I have had my navel pierced for four years now. The barbell I have in is the same that was inserted when I first got it pierced and made of surgical stainless steel, which I prefer to titanium because it will not give me an allergic reaction. As opposed to experiences others on the board have had, mine has been nothing but pleasant. Naturally there will be a little pus because your body recognizes the metal as a foreign object and is attempting to heal around it. That does not mean it is infected. Just be regular with cleanings, use a triple antibiotic and it will heal like a charm.

If she were asking for a facial piercing (which I have as well) I would have her wait a year because it could affect her employment opportunities depending on where she wants to work. If she were asking for a tattoo, (again, which I have) I would have her wait simply because of the permanence of it all.

Navel piercings are discreet and easy to care for. Like wearing sexy underwear on a first date when you know you're the only one that's going to see it, it's an extra little confidence booster to make her feel attractive and hip without drawing unnecessary attention.

Plus, if you take her to get it, your position on the parent's coolness scale will definitely be bumped up a few notches.

Edit: I just wanted to add that I don't think she is doing this to be rebellious at all. If she were she would not have sought out your permission in the first place. I think it is the mark of a very responsible young woman with respect for her parents that would have the conversation with them in a non-confrontational manner in the first place. I just think this issue is illustrative of the generational gap present and what is socially acceptable appearance-wise.