Body Art Facilities Program
The Environmental Health Department licenses and inspects body art facilities to reduce the risk of communicable disease and injury. Licensure, inspection, and education help ensure support safe operation and sanitation.
Licensed body art services include tattooing, body piercing, branding, and scarification.
DOCUMENTS FOR LICENSURE
RESOURCES FOR BODY ART FACILITIES
- Association for Professional Piercers
- Alliance of Professional Tattooists
- Tattoo Industry Manufacturer Alliance
- Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) Body Art Resources
- AFDO Tattoo Ink and Permanent Makeup Labeling Guide
- FDA Tattoos, Temporary Tattoos & Permanent Makeup
- FDA Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCrA)
- National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Body Art Resources
Body Art: Know the Risks
It is vital the artist understands the risks and follows proper procedures.
- WHO is performing your body art procedure and do they have displayed certification?
- WHAT does the artist wear on their hands?
- WHERE does the ink/jewelry come from and what is it made of?
- WHEN was the artist’s last Bloodborne Pathogen Training? (Annual)
- WHY are you receiving this procedure?
- HOW do you properly care for your new body art?
IRREVERSIBLE CHANGES TO THE HUMAN BODY
It is vital the artist understands the risks and follows proper procedures. Talk to your doctor about potential risks and your concerns at any time in the body art procedure process.
SWELLING, BRUISING, BLEEDING, DISCOMFORT & PAIN
Body art procedures may puncture the skin in some way. There is a risk of skin infections and other complications. These risks apply equally to cosmetic tattooing procedures.
ALLEGIC REACTIONS
Tattoo ink can cause allergic reactions, immediately or years after getting the tattoo. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any pigments for injection into the skin for cosmetic purposes.
Metals used in body piercings can also cause allergic reactions. Nickel is associated with more complications. View the list of acceptable metals.
RISK OF INFECTION
There is potential for exposure to bloodborne pathogens and airborne viruses. Practice proper precautions to limit exposure and transmission.
Follow the aftercare information provided. Body art procedures can appear healed when they are still open wounds.
RESOURCES
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH OFFICE