There are health risks associated with getting a tattoo. These include allergic reactions and the transmission of bloodborne diseases, such as hepatitis or HIV, which is why you should always use a licensed tattoo artist in a licensed tattoo establishment.
Understanding those risks and ensuring that the individual and business is licensed is important to protect yourself from potential harm.
How to Protect Yourself When Getting a Tattoo
- Tattoo artists and the tattoo establishment must both have a license issued by the Florida Department of Health
- Licenses should be current and visible
- The area to be tattooed must be cleaned prior to tattooing
- Observe your surroundings – the facility should be clean
- The artist must wear gloves and use a new pair if they become contaminated
- Only sterile, single-use needles should be used
- Ink, dyes, or pigments must be portioned per customer
- Obtain after care instructions at the time of your tattoo and follow these to promote safe healing
- Keep the tattoo clean
- Seek medical attention if you have an allergic reaction or infection. Signs of a possible infection include excessive soreness, tenderness, redness, drainage, swelling, or pain at the tattoo site
- Swimming and sunbathing is not recommended directly after getting a tattoo
Verify a License
Verify the license status of a tattoo artist and establishment.
Report Unlicensed Activity
We protect Florida residents and visitors from the potentially serious and dangerous consequences of receiving unlicensed health care services.