Tattoos and Piercings

The decision to get a tattoo or piercing is one that should involve serious thought and planning. Do your research before deciding on a body artist to ensure a safe visit and don't be afraid to ask questions! A good body artist will answer all of your questions openly and truthfully.

Are tattoos and piercings safe?

• When done by a professional body or tattoo artist who takes the proper precautions to protect customers and themselves, yes.
• Piercings and tattoos can increase the risk of contracting blood borne diseases such as HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B and C.
• Touching the newly pierced or tattooed area with dirty hands can cause infections.
• We strongly recommend a Hepatitis B vaccination before getting a piercing or tattoo.

What are the risks?

• Make sure you watch your body artist open the packaging of your brand new sterile needle. Reusing needles for piercings or tattoos is like sharing injectable drug needles.
• Piercing devices should only be used for earlobes (or not at all).
• Old jewellery can hold viruses, so choose new, sterile jewellery for your piercing. Surgical steel is best.
• Ensure your tattoo artist uses only fresh ink for your tattoo. Ask to see your ink poured into new, disposable “caps”. A virus can survive for a long time in ink.

What should I consider when choosing the location of my tattoo or piercing?

• Some areas on the body can become infected more easily than others.
• Some sites have different amounts of pain.
• Think about how you might feel about your choice 5-10 years from now.
• Do you want your tattoo or piercing to always remain visible?

How do I care for my piercing or tattoo?

• Always wash your hands before touching any new piercing or tattoo.
• The healthier your lifestyle, the easier it will be for your the site to heal.
• Follow the steps as given by your body artist to care for your piercing(s) or tattoo.
• Make sure a sterile, non-stick bandage covers your new tattoo when you leave.
• If you have a mouth piercing, you must clean your mouth many times a day to prevent infection.
• Take a shower rather than a bath. If you prefer a bath, clean the tub well before each use.
• If any piercing or tattoo becomes sore, red, swollen or oozes pus, you may have an infection. See your doctor immediately.
• The body artist should give you a written list of things to do to prevent infection.

What should I consider when choosing a body artist/shop?

• Take the time to find a professional. How long was their training?
• Shop around before you get a piercing or tattoo. Get all of your questions answered.
• The body artist should not drink alcohol or take drugs while working on you.
• Is the shop clean? A dirty shop increases your risk of infection, which could ruin your piercing or tattoo and be harmful to your health.
• Do they sterilize equipment and disinfect work surfaces to remove blood and body fluids?
• Do they use an autoclave?
• Do they have a sink to wash their hands?
• If the area needs shaving, is a new disposable razor used?
• Do they clean the area with soap and water and then wipe with an antiseptic swab?
• Do they use new sterile gloves for each piercing or tattooing?
• Are new disposable needles used?

Remember: A good body artist will answer all of your questions – just ask them!

How long do tattoos and piercings take to heal?

Tattoos:

Tattoos can take up to six weeks to heal. Make sure to follow proper care instructions to prevent infection.

Piercings: