With body modification gaining in popularity every year, it can be hard to believe that it hasn’t always been that way. No longer just for the young, people of all ages are sporting some sweet ink and multiple piercings. This can be a challenge if you’re a bit older, as family and friends may not be accepting of your new modification.
One way to handle criticism from other people is to point out the lengthy history body modification in various cultures. Many Asian cultures have been tattooing for centuries, ear stretching has been practiced by some African cultures for just as long, and nose piercing has existed around the world for eons.
Another tactic is simply pointing out your own bodily autonomy. It’s your body to decorate as you see fit. Some people prefer a plainer canvas than others but it’s still your canvas to do with as you choose. If someone says you’re “too old” for your mod, just point out that you are the one who will be living with it, you happen to like it, and that’s all that counts.
Body modifications and body positivity can go hand-in-hand. Anything that makes you love yourself more is a good and wonderful thing. So, if someone is giving you a hard time and saying that you have aged out of such things as piercing, explain to them how much you love it. That it makes you feel beautiful. Perhaps they could benefit from a bit of help in that department, themselves. You may be able to assist someone in loving their body a little bit more just from showing off how amazing that piercing or tattoo makes you feel! Be a good example that body modification is for everyone, regardless of age. A well-performed piercing looks great on every body, no matter what year they were born. Flaunt that newfound confidence!
At the end of the day, you are the one with the piercing or tattoo. Don’t ever let anyone make you feel bad because of your modifications or tell you that you’re too old to have them. The modification community welcomes everyone, whether they’re from Generation Z or a Baby Boomer. It’s your right to pierce or tattoo your body as you see fit and the beauty those mods add to the outside is a beauty you’re sure to feel all the way down to your soul. Other people will come to see and respect that in time. You may even inspire them to get a few of their own. Body modification is ageless, timeless, and all-inclusive. Love your mods and love your modified self!
