The tattoo industry has grown considerably in recent years. People have been painting, piercing, and decorating their skin since ancient times, but today, it is a mainstream practice in the Western world. Tattoo parlors are everywhere you go. Not all operate safely. This article focuses on safety for tattoo artists and their clients.

Safety protocols for tattoo parlors are imperative to protect artists and clients. Tattooing is a procedure that punctures the skin. Tattooing introduces permanent ink underneath the skin. If not done carefully, both procedures carry real risks, particularly the threat of infection. Ensuring the operator follows safety rules is crucial when choosing a tattoo parlor. Confirm that the shop has a valid business license, which indicates its commitment to operating within safe and regulated practices.

New Disposable Gloves 

Disposable gloves are perhaps the most critical safety product in a tattoo studio. Given the constant exposure to blood and bodily fluids, wearing gloves ensures the artist's hands remain protected and prevents cross-contamination between client and artist.

Any breaks in the skin, such as cuts or scrapes, can become entry points for harmful bacteria, making gloves indispensable. They also safeguard clients from potential contaminants on the artist's skin. For the best protection, tattoo artists often choose nitrile, latex, or vinyl gloves, depending on individual preferences or sensitivities.

Hospeco Brands offers specialized gloves tailored for the tattoo industry, ensuring optimal barrier protection with durability and comfort. Tattoo artists and piercing techs prefer our Shadow® Nitrile 6 mil gloves for their protective quality and edgy black color, which matches the aesthetic of most body art businesses. The Hospeco Brands website has a wide variety of gloves from which to choose.

Face Masks

While the artist's hands are protected, they must safeguard their respiratory health. Face masks shield the mouth and nose from droplets or sprays that may occur during tattooing. These masks also reduce the risk of transmitting airborne pathogens, offering the artist and client vital protection. Wearing a mask ensures that the tattooing process remains hygienic from start to finish.

Disposable Needles And Tubes 

A tattoo artist should never use the same needle on more than one person. They should have a set of new sealed needles and tubes for each new client. Established tattoo parlors use disposable kits with sealed needles and tubes on their clients. Pigment trays should also be new for each client. Professional tattoo artists wear all the required protective items, including face masks. Don't be afraid to ask for a bib to protect your clothing.

Barrier Film

Maintaining a sterile work environment is crucial in preventing infection. Barrier film acts as a protective layer, covering surfaces of tools and equipment in the studio during use. This prevents direct contact with surfaces that could harbor bacteria or contaminants, ensuring hygiene remains a top priority. With easy application and removal, barrier film helps maintain a clean, professional workspace throughout the day.

Sterilized Equipment And Surfaces 

Some tattooing equipment, like the tattoo "gun," is too expensive to throw away after a single use. However, artists should properly sterilize all reusable equipment between clients. Pay extra attention to sanitary conditions. For instance, operators should sanitize all surfaces and countertops regularly to avoid contamination. Blood can splatter on other surfaces and furniture during the tattooing process. To operate a safe tattoo parlor, one must frequently sterilize equipment and working areas.

Nonmetallic Ink 

Ask the tattoo artist if they use high-quality inks and why they chose them. Research the source and manufacturer of the tattoo ink, as some inks contain dangerous metallic elements and solvents. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate these and can cause cancerous infections.

What to look for in a Tattoo Technician

When seeking a tattoo artist, look for these things to ensure you choose a safe, professional shop. Confirm the answers to your questions with the technician who will work on your skin.

1. Find a licensed Tattoo Parlor.

2. Tattoo artists must wear new disposable gloves for every client.

3. Tattoo artists must use disposable needles and tubes.

4. Tattoo artists must sterilize equipment and surfaces frequently.

5. Tattoo artists must use high-quality, non-metallic ink.

Ready to learn more? Contact a Hospeco Brands Group Account Representative today to understand the unique needs of tattoo professionals for the highest standards of protection, hygiene, and comfort. You can also view our website, which has an extensive collection of disposable gloves for every industry.