Sunday, September 2, 2012

Consider Your Safety When You Get a Tattoo

By Kenneth Orr


If you've decided that you're going to join the growing numbers of people with tattoos, it's important to make sure you're getting your tattoo safely. You may have heard the rare horror stories of people who've contracted HIV or Hepatitis from getting a tattoo.

While it isn't the norm, it is an unfortunate possibility if you aren't careful. Here are the safety precautions you must take before getting your tattoo

1. Go to a reputable artist and tattoo shop. Ask around. If you see someone who has a tattoo that you like (or is particularly well done), ask the person for the shop or artist's name. Most people don't mind being asked who did their tattoo. Go online or search the yellow pages. Many shops advertise their sterilization processes and procedures, or advertise that their artists have taken special courses provided by the local health department.

2. Ask questions and expect answers. It's okay to interview a couple of different tattoo artists. If they're professional, they won't mind taking a little time to talk to you about your concerns. Don't try to talk to them when they're in the middle of a tattoo. If you need to, ask when they expect a slow moment so they can talk to you. Ask them about sterilization procedures, precautions they use and what they do with the used needles. Expect to see evidence to back up their answers. If they don't want to talk to you or seem a bit shaky about safety, cleanliness and needle disposal, find another artist.

3. Look for evidence of training. You'll often see certificates (that should be up to date) posted regarding health department inspections and course completion. Different areas have different requirements for tattoo shops (and some have none). Find out what's required in your area. Your local tattoo shop should be able to provide evidence of meeting those requirements and hopefully going above and beyond.

4. Ask to see the equipment that will be used for your tattoo. Any needles that are used should be brand new and still sealed in its package. The artist should open the needle package in front of you. If this doesn't happen, get up and walk out. This is not the artist for you! The tattoo guns should be covered with a plastic film and the artist should wear disposable latex gloves. If the artist takes the gloves off for any reason, fresh ones should be put on before work is resumed on your tattoo. While the tattoo shop might not be as sterile as your doctor's office, it should look clean, tidy, and at least reasonably organized.

Always follow your artist's instructions for tattoo care. Aftercare is very important for proper healing and a great looking tattoo. Knowing what safety measures should be in place before you get inked will help you stay safe.




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