I read quite a bit of the responses and I think each one is valid in its own way.

I was rebellious with very conservative parents. I wasn't allowed to get my ears pierced until I was 18!!! At the time, I felt it was horribly unjust but in retrospect, I appreciate it.

At 18, I did go get my ears pierced but it was because I wanted to, not because it was "cool". I had enough years to cool down on my initial enthusiasm to put some thought into it.

At 30, I got a tattoo. Since I was in the workforce in a semi-professional position, I got it somewhere that wouldn't affect my job, formal events, or potential promotions. I also had enough money and creativity to have something custom designed and have it be something that had meaning.

I was about as punk as it comes (down to purple hair but hair color grows out!) and learned restraint. I didn't need to change my body to be different and by waiting until I was older, it wasn't just an impulse tattoo or piercing.

I think at 16 most people don't know where they are headed as a person or with their life. At least I know I had no idea! Other people might have been more mature than I was.

That all being said, if you do it do it wisely. It won't be forever because as with tattoos, I'm sure piercings sag I'll also say that I think my parents were right, you don't need to follow fashions or fads to be who you are. Individuality, however (and I think navel piercing is too trendy for that) is another matter.

And I have to say what piercings I've seen on Knot, look great. I wish I could get away with it but I just don't have the facial structure. I AM jealous!!!