A lot of people have body modifications. Look around; teenagers, young adults, men, women and older adults have them. These can include tattoos, piercings, stretched ears, colored hair, implants, etc., and if you have them, you can face some ridicule. Here are some things you may hear as a modified person.

1. “You would be so pretty without that.”

I would be? Am I ugly now? Is that what you’re saying? I mean, I feel more attractive with them. They’ve also given me a great deal of confidence which is something I value more, so?

2. “But Boys don’t like- “

When did I start caring what they like? I like it. When did I start basing decisions on what they thought? When did you?

3. “How are you going to get a job?”

I can flip my septum ring into my nose. I can wear long sleeves. They’ve literally made makeup for this specific reason. It won’t be the end of the world. There are people who are in very established careers that have them, actually.

4. “What about when you get older?”

I’ll be an old lady with tattoos and I’ll look cool and you won’t. Simple.

5. “Can I touch it?!?” *Touches It Anyway*

Um, stop?? My hair is hair. My tattoos feel like skin. Stop. You may only touch them with your eyes.

6. “I know someone who can pierce your lip for way cheaper. They’re a professional.”

If it includes non-sanitized needles in someone’s kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom, then count me out. Unless someone has a license, do not let them stab holes in your face. No good body modification is cheap, and no cheap body modification is good.

7. “Did It Hurt?”

Needles going through your skin? Yes. It hurt. Depending on your pain tolerance, it’ll be different for everyone. It also depends where you get it pierced.

In all seriousness, though, do your research. Be safe and use your resources to find someone qualified and talented, so you can come out of the shop with something you really love and can show it off proudly.