Sterilization and infection control have always been subjects I have taken very seriously. My education includes Environmental Health, and I have worked as both a Health Inspector and an Environmental Supervisor. That background has given me a strong understanding of sanitation, contamination prevention, and the importance of following proper procedures.

During my tattoo career, I followed Universal Precautions and established infection-control practices designed to prevent cross-contamination and protect both the client and the artist.

What Proper Tattoo Safety Involves

The following are examples of standard practices I followed throughout my years of tattooing:

★ Reusable tattoo equipment was thoroughly cleaned before sterilization. Tattoo tubes, grips, and other reusable instruments were cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner to remove debris before being rinsed and prepared for sterilization.

★ Instruments were individually packaged for sterilization. Clean instruments were placed in individual autoclave bags containing chemical indicator strips. Packages were dated, initialed, and identified by sterilization run.

★ An autoclave was used to sterilize reusable instruments. The autoclave uses heat and pressure to destroy microorganisms. Sterilization equipment was routinely tested, including monthly biological (spore) testing.

★ Sterile packages remained sealed until needed. Autoclave bags were not opened until the instruments were ready to be used.

★ Tattoo needles were single-use. Needles were used once and then disposed of appropriately. They were never reused.

★ Other disposable supplies were single-use. Items such as ink caps, ointment, and other materials that came into contact with the tattooing process were disposed of after use.

★ Disposable examination gloves were used during tattooing. Gloves were changed as appropriate to prevent contamination.

★ Work surfaces were cleaned and disinfected. The tattooing area and surrounding surfaces were cleaned and appropriately disinfected before and after each tattoo.

What Should a Client Look For?

You should never feel uncomfortable asking questions about sanitation and sterilization before receiving a tattoo. A professional tattoo artist should be willing to explain their procedures and answer reasonable questions about how equipment and work surfaces are cleaned and how disposable materials are handled

If something about the cleanliness or safety of a tattooing environment makes you uncomfortable, stop and ask questions. You are making a permanent decision about your body, and there is nothing wrong with taking the time to make sure you feel safe before proceeding.

Good tattooing isn't only about the artwork. The process used to create it matters, too.