Tattoo Corner > Tattoo Advice & Info > Tattoo Shop Safety: What To Look For
When people meet me, they often ask about my ink. I totally welcome this because talking to someone with tattoos is a great way to gain information that you might not otherwise be privy to.
I have co-written and edited two tattoo books (see sidebar) and wanted to share some of the information I have acquired and written about, in hopes that it might be helpful to others.
Below you will find an always-expanding variety of tattoo-related topics as well as the Tattoo Spotlight section.
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Tattoo Shop Safety
In order to have a positive tattoo experience, it's not only important to find an artist who understands your vision and does great work, but who will also provide a safe and clean environment f
or the entire procedure. It's good to trust your instincts and you can usually get a good (or bad) feel for a shop as soon as you walk in. A few things to keep in mind when you are visiting potential artists and shops are:
- Does the artist always wear gloves during each procedure?
- Do they have an autoclave (a sterilization unit that sterilizes equipment)?
- Are the floors and other surfaces clean?
- Is the overall shop clean?
- Are ointment, water, ink, ink cups, and gloves used only once? (these items should not ever be reused)
- Are all of the needles new, disposable and made for single-use only?
- Does the staff appear attentive to your needs and questions?
- Does the artist change gloves after every procedure?
- Are needles properly disposed of?
- Does the ink used come from a bottle that's poured into a small cup each tattoo project? (Ink should never be reused. If ink remains after a tattoo has been completed, it should always be thrown away)
- Does the artist provide a portfolio of past work so you can get an idea of their style and skill?
- Does the artist provide aftercare instructions?
Take safety seriously when adding art to your skin that is permanent. It is worth taking the time to find a shop and an artist that you are comfortable with in every way.
Happy inkin'!
Last updated on October 22, 2009 by Jinxi Boo
I will be adding to this section on a regular basis. If you have a tattoo-related question please submit it to the Tattoo Corner for possible inclusion in the Tattoo Advice section. Thanks.
