Safety Precautions when getting tattoos

As women we all have to go through safety precaustions.  Get a pap smear regularly, self breast exams, and the works.  Why would you think tattoos would be any different?  When getting tattoos there are a few things on a check list you should go through to make sure your safety and health as well as the best posibility of tattoo coming out looking its best.

1. Never drink before getting a tattoo. If you have drank heavily the night prior it is probably best to wait another day. For one, alcohol thins your blood which will cause you to bleed more during the tattoo and less ink will be absorbed into the skin. And another is that you are likely to be dehydrated which can cause your body to black out. Not ever a good feeling.
2. A professional always ask for ID and has you sign a standard permission waiver.
3. Do your research on your choosen artist. Health certificates, training, portfolio, and word of mouth recomendations.
4. Make sure the artist is always wearing gloves and protective plastic disposable coverings over any machinery that is not disposible and may come in contact with your skin. No sense in risking in transmition of diseases and germs which could casue infections.
5. All ointments, water, and ink should be placed into disposable containers when used on a client and then left overs disposed of. Never being put back into the buld supplies.
6. All needles should be opened from a sealed sterilzed bag in front of you.
7. There should be a visable Hazardous Shaps Container in plain view of work station where all needles are placed once they are finished.