Tattoo Aftercare and Basics
By Jodie Michalak, About.com Guide
- Tattoo Placement and Basics
- Tattoo Artist Interviews and Bios
- Tattooed Celebrities and Interviews
- Universal Precautions
Tattoo Placement and Basics
Whether the placement or basic design process for tattoos, research the facts here.
- Where Do Tattoos Hurt the Most?
- First Wrist Tattoo FAQ
- How to Get a Tattoo at a Tattoo Convention
- Should I Cover Up My Tattoo?
- Nipple Piercing FAQ
Tattoo Artist Interviews and Bios
Exclusive tattoo artist interviews with industry professionals.
- Shanghai Kate Hellenbrand
- Interview with Clint Cummings
- Interview with Ink Master Steven Tefft
- Artist Bio Josh Collins
Tattooed Celebrities and Interviews
From Hollywood, the stage and the soccerfield, this section covers what's hot in the world of tattooed celebs and includes exclusive interviews.
- Interview with Rico the Zombie Boy Rick Genest
- Interview with Dita Von Teese
- Interview with Erik the Lizardman Sprague
Universal Precautions
Universal Precautions is the term used to describe the method required to keep people safe from blood borne pathogens and hazardous waste. Not all body art practitioners abide by Universal Precautions, so it becomes your responsibility to know what to look for and how to know if someone is following the safety standards or not.
- Studio Safety Requirements
- Why You Should Be Concerned About Cross Contamination
- Why Artists Must Wear Protective Gloves
- Glossary Definition - Cross Contamination
- What is an Autoclave Bag and Why is it Important?
- What is an Autoclave Sterilizer?
- Glossary Definition - Blood-Borne Pathogens
- The Importance of Spore Strip Testing
- Blood & Plasma Donation Eligibility
- Do Disposable (One Time Use) Needles and Tubes Make a Tattoo or Piercing Safe?
- Biohazardous Materials - Proper Disposal of Medical Waste
Allergic Reactions and Healing Difficulties

Even if a tattoo or piercing is performed with the utmost precautions, sometimes things can go wrong. You may experience a reaction to the ink, the jewelry, or a product used during aftercare. This section will help you troubleshoot those issues and found out how to handle them.
- Piercing Bumps, Growths, Cysts, Keloids and Infections
- Body Jewelry Rejection and Migration
- Raised, Itchy and/or Bumpy Tattoos
- Latex Allergies - Causes Symptoms Prevention Alternatives and Treatment
Common Unsafe Practices
Certain practices may be common, but that doesn't necessarily mean they are safe. This section will explore controversial issues that deserve a second thought.
Body Art and Disease Risks

Even though getting a professional tattoo or piercing is generally safe, nothing is completely without risk. And getting a non-professional tattoo or piercing is rife with safety hazards. Learn what dangers you could potentially be exposed to and how to protect yourself.
