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Questions to Ask When Getting Your Tattoo
Getting a tattoo is a major decision, one that will be with you for a long time.
If you get a haircut you don’t like, all you have to do is wait for it to grow out. If you buy a car you don’t like, you can always take it back and get something you like more.
But it’s not as easy to deal with a tattoo you are unhappy with. While a tattoo can be removed, it can be painful, take time, and cost a pretty penny. In the long run, it’s best to do everything you can before you get the tattoo to ensure you will be happy with your decision.
One way to do this is by asking questions of the artist who will be doing your tattoo. You should also educate yourself on the proper way tattoos should be done.
Some people might not feel comfortable walking into a tattoo parlor and asking a whole list of questions. But it’s something you need to do if you don’t want to end up regretting your decision.
Here are some questions you should feel free to ask during your visit to the tattoo parlor.
How Long Have You Been Doing This?
Who would you rather have doing your tattoo? Someone who has been a tattoo artist for years, or someone just starting out? Do you want to be their fourth customer, or their four hundredth?
Feel free to ask the artists in a tattoo shop how much experience they have. What kind of training have they completed? And do they have any certificates they can show you?
Many artists keep a portfolio of the work they’ve done on past clients. Be sure you ask to see it.
Can I See Your Certification?
While the tattoo industry isn’t strictly regulated in many areas, tattoo artists are usually required to complete a course on infectious disease transmission before they can legally set up shop. They also must receive some sort of state licensing.
There are far too many people who call themselves tattoo artists, but are doing steady (and illegal) business with no licensing to speak of. Make sure the tattoo artist you use isn’t one of them.
What Professional Organizations Do You Belong To?
In most places, tattoo artists aren’t required to belong to any professional organizations. But those that do are probably interested in maintaining the quality and standards of tattooing as an industry and art form. They are also more likely to be aware of the latest trends, techniques, and safety precautions.
Is This Parlor State-Regulated?
In most states, there is no regulation for tattoo parlors. However, if a tattoo parlor is in an area where such regulation is required, ask if they are state-regulated. Think of it as an extra precaution.
What Sterilization Procedures Do You Use?
When tattoo artists don’t follow the correct sanitation procedures, getting a tattoo could put you at risk of contracting an infectious disease, like hepatitis, or tuberculosis.
Professional, well-run tattoo shops use strict sterilization procedures to make sure their customers and their employees stay safe.
Most tattoo shops explain the sterilization process to customers before they start work on the tattoo. But you can educate yourself on the process before you make your final decision to even get a tattoo.
Go to the tattoo parlors you are considering, and observe how they operate. Do they use an autoclave to sterilize reusable equipment? Do the tattoo artists wear protective gloves when doing tattoos?
Some tattoo equipment should only be used once. So, do they open such items in front of each customer, and then immediately throw those items away after they have been used?
Taking the time to ask questions, and educate yourself, will help you stay safe and protected. It will also ensure that you have fewer reasons to regret getting a tattoo.
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