The number of drawn tattoos is growing now more than ever before. This is due to the entrance of different categories of people that want to have their bodies tattooed. In the past, inmates, bikers and low standard people were the main customers of any tattoo shop but now the situation is totally different. Tattoo shops are receiving a wider base of clientele from wide backgrounds and different age groups.
The immense growth of this art makes it a critical need for rules to regulate it. Surprisingly, there are no strong or solid rules to regulate tattoo work. Recently there were some actions taken to regulate tattoo work.
One of the first regulations that took place was the regulation of licensing tattoo artists. Until 2008, anyone could open a tattoo parlor and start drawing tattoos on people. After that date, different States started applying regulations on tattoo artists as they now must complete a certain level of education in order to be certified to draw tattoos.
Other regulations apply to the tattoo parlor itself. Before 2008, it was acceptable to offer tattoo services from home or any residence but now the situation is different. Starting 2010, it is empirical to establish any new tattoo parlor in a commercial building but the tattoo studios established before that date can keep their businesses.
When we take a look at the health regulation we will find that it covered everything except the tattoo ink itself. The health regulations cover the machinery and equipments used in tattooing. Health inspectors will check every facility and make sure that every needle used is sterilized and disposed after the usage. They will also require a blood test for every tattoo artist to ensure that he or she is safe to deal with body piercing equipments.
