In a case a tattooist is not wearing gloves during the tattooing session, here are all the risks they’re exposing their clients, and themselves, because of such a choice or practice;

• Transmission of HIV, and other similar viral diseases
• MRSA skin infection
• Transmission of infection-causing bacteria
• Cross-contamination of the whole work area
• The risk of the tattoo getting infected, which can be incredibly dangerous
• The risk of the tattoo not healing, or taking incredibly long to heal
• Getting the ink on their hands, and their equipment

In a case, a tattooist is reported for not wearing gloves during a tattoo session, and because of that causing a client to experience a serious infection, inflammation, or disease transmission, the tattooist can be sued and lose their license and potentially their job. Not to mention that their reputation as a tattooist will be ruined, and they will lose customers for sure!

Are There Different Types of Gloves, Or…?

Yes, there are different types of gloves tattooists usually wear. For example;

• Latex gloves – these are medical-grade gloves intended for use in the medical community for different procedures. They are low cost and are generally quite thin. However, they are rather well resistant to any puncture and damage.

But, because it is very easy to develop a latex allergy when wearing these for too long, many tattooists avoid wearing latex gloves during work. Not to mention that tattooists cannot use these gloves in case a client has a latex allergy as well.

• Vinyl gloves – these, unlike latex gloves, are much thicker and more resistant to exposure of any kind. However, because of the thick and heavy vinyl material, the gloves make it hard for the tattoo artist to work. There is a hindrance in hand and finger flexibility and movement, which can be a major problem for the tattooist. Overall, these gloves are not recommended for use in the tattoo community.
• Black nitrile gloves – these gloves are the best for tattoo artists. They are thin but still stronger than latex or vinyl gloves, and they provide exceptional freedom of movement without compromising safety.

These gloves are designed to withstand the longest sessions and ensure that the tattooist, or the client, experiences an allergic reaction. These gloves are disposable, but because they’re so resistant to chemicals, they can be cleaned as well.