Artists inject ink into the skin's top layer using a machine with needles that repeatedly penetrate the skin to insert small ink droplets. There are possible hazards of allergic reactions, skin irritation, infection, and diseases like hepatitis, tetanus, and HIV from tattooing. To be safe, make sure the tattoo studio and artist are reputable, the artist is properly trained, and the equipment and workspace are sterile.

1. TATTOO SAFETY

2. HOW TATTOOS ARE APPLIED
• Colors are injected into the skin’s top layer
• Artists use a hand-held machine, with at least
one needle repeatedly penetrating the skin
• Small ink droplets are inserted with every
penetration

3. POSSIBLE HAZARDS OF TATTOOS
• Allergic reaction
• Skin irritation
• Skin infection
• Disease, including hepititus, tetanus, and HIV

4. HOW TO BE SAFE
• Make sure your tattoo studio is reputable
• Make sure the artist is properly trained
• Make sure the artist cleans his hands and
wears gloves
• Make sure the artist uses brand new needles,
tubes, pigments, trays, and containers
• Make sure equipment is sterile

5. HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR NEW
TATTOO
• Remove bandage after 24 hours
• Use topical antibiotic
• Keep the skin clean
• Use moisturizer
• Avoid wearing clothing that will stick to the
tattoo
• Allow about 2 weeks to fully heal