Clean Tattoos

Applying tattoos must be as clinical as a hospital procedure. There are too many risks involved by ignoring the hygiene. Sterilization is the key issue in getting safe tattoos. To think that all new needles are sterile is a myth!

All needles used for tattoos have to be autoclave sterilized new or used, this is the only way to make sure that they are safe. The tubes where the needle/bar rides in needs to be sterilized as well.

Questions to Ask Your Tattoo Artist Before Getting Tattoos

• Do you thoroughly wash your hands with antibacterial solution immediately before and after applying all tattoos?

• Do you wear latex gloves during the tattooing procedure?

• Do you use single service materials and equipment (i.e., each needle and tube set is individually packaged, dated and sealed, and autoclave sterilized), and set up and open them in front of the client?

• Do you use sterile disposable needles?

• Do you have an FDA-regulated autoclave on site?

• Do you sanitize your work space with an EPA approved veridical disinfectant, preferably one that kills tuberculosis, before and after each client?

• Do you thoroughly rinse tube/needle sets from tattoo machines using an ultrasonic tank before discarding?

• Do you properly dispose of contaminated materials?

Measure how the person you talk with answers your questions.

Are they considerate and thorough, or are they annoyed by your inquisitiveness? You have a right to have your questions answered thoroughly in advance before getting any tattoos.

When you get there, check out the tattoo studio and make sure it looks and feels clean. If you get there and you’re uncomfortable, you can always just turn around and leave.