Go Shopping
Before you get a tattoo or some piercing done it's important to check out a bunch of different places and decide which one is best for you.
Here are some things that you should look for:
- Do they always use new packaged sterilized needles and tubes?
- Do they use fresh ink dispensers and disposable "ink caps" for each person?
- Do they wear new gloves for every client?
- Do they sterilize everything in an autoclave - a machine that uses very hot water to clean all the reusable equipment such as clamps?
- Do they give you an aftercare sheet with information on how to care for your body art?
- Does the piercer use jewellery made of surgical steel?
- Ask them how many previous clients have had infections.
- Professional tattoo and body art parlours should not have carpet.
- Stud guns are not safe. Many stud guns cannot be sterilized at all?
Tattoos
- Don't stay out in the sun for too long until your tattoo is healed (about a month)
- If you get an infection or allergic reaction to the ink or jewellery, go see your doctor.
- Don't go in swimming pools and hot tubs for at least one week
Trust Your Instincts
You should feel comfortable talking to the artist and asking any questions you may have.
Tell the artist if you have any allergies to metal. If you feel uncomfortable, leave and find a different artist. After all, it's your money and your body - don't settle!
Caring For Your New Body Art
- Alcohol swabs shouldn't be used to clean a piercing because they wipe away newly healed skin and encourage infection. Instead, use a salt-water solution. Never touch your piercing with dirty hands and try to clean it with anti-bacterial soap and water at lease twice a day for the first two weeks.
- A small amount of 'crust' formed around the pierce is expected for some time.
- Do not pick any scabs or crusts that form.
- Don't perform oral sex until your tongue piercing is completely healed.
- Don't go in swimming pools and hot tubs for at least one week.
- Avoid drinking alcohol for at least one week.
- Depending on the piercing, healing can take a long time. Do not change jewellery until any tenderness has gone away..
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