However, infections
are possible through unsafe body art practices. If you are thinking of
getting a piercing or a tattoo, there are some things
to consider.
When choosing an artist, try to get a referral from a trusted friend.
Visit several shops before you make your decision. Talk to the artists
and check out their portfolios. To reduce your risk of infection, make
sure:
- New needles are used every time.
- Aftercare instructions are provided.
- New latex gloves are used.
- New ink is used and poured into new disposable cups.
- New jewellery is used.
- The shop is licensed and the artist is experienced.
If you are going to tattoo or body pierce yourself or someone else, it
is important to follow the same precautions:
- Don’t share needles (or anything else you could use as a needles
such as guitar strings, stapes, or threads) or tattoo guns.
- If you must share a tattoo gun, it should be completely cleaned with bleach
and rinsed with water. It is not 100% guaranteed to kill HIV, and its
believed that bleaching DOES NOT kill HCV, but its safer
than doing nothing.
- Don’t share inks and don’t put used ink back in the bottle.
- Always wear latex gloves when tattooing or piercing someone else.
(Source: “Safe Body Art” brochure
developed by The AIDS Network)
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