Tattoos and body piercings 

Getting a tattoo or body piercing are widespread practices that can pose a health risk if done carelessly, by unauthorised and unqualified persons, or without complying with the necessary sanitation and health and safety standards regarding the tools and materials used. 

 

Tattoos in particular are invasive practices because they involve injecting ink into the deepest layer of the skin, the dermis. If the needles are not sterile there is a risk of contracting skin infections or infections caused by pathogens transmitted through the blood, such as hepatitis B and C viruses or HIV.  

How to prevent infections 

If you want to get a tattoo or piercing, choose a reputable professional. Remember that you will not be able to donate blood for four months after getting a piercing or tattoo.

 

Take simple precautions to avoid infections or allergic reactions:

It is advisable not to drink alcohol before getting a tattoo, since it tends to dilate the blood vessels and would therefore increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure.
 After getting a tattoo, avoid sunbathing without sunscreen, at least until the scabs have come off. Saunas, scrubs and waxing are also not recommended during this period. 
Tattoos made with metal-based pigments can be a problem if you have an MRI scan of the tattooed area because they might cause mild tingling or warmth, temporary reactions that resolve spontaneously within a short time.
Before getting a piercing, wash the area thoroughly with mild soap. Proper hygiene is also essential in the weeks following the piercing, cleaning the area twice a day for at least two months with a solution of water and sea salt.
If the piercing is on the tongue, lips or cheeks, maintain proper oral hygiene after eating, drinking or smoking for two months after the piercing. Use an oral antiseptic or gargle with a solution of water and sea salt .
Avoid chewing gum, spicy foods and alcoholic beverages for one week after the piercing.

Several reasons why tattooing can be discouraged

Some people are advised against getting a tattoo, mainly for reasons related to the possible, albeit temporary, lowering of the immune system: 

 

  • People with photosensitivity have abnormal skin reactions to sunlight, in which case tattoos can trigger allergic reactions. 
  • Tattoos can trigger the acute phase of skin diseases like psoriasis, eczema and seborrheic dermatitis. People suffering from these conditions are advised to perform a patch test before the tattoo session to diagnose allergic contact reactions. 
  • Tattoo artists should always keep a distance of about one centimetre from moles. It is essential not to hide them so that specialists can assess their shape and evolution and promptly diagnose any melanoma. 
  • Ink contains substances that are irritating to the skin and potentially allergenic. A patch test is recommended before the tattoo session for people with an allergy predisposition. 
  • Diabetes makes people more susceptible to infection, since the disease affects tissue healing. Those suffering from diabetes should consult with their doctor before getting a tattoo. 
  • People with heart disease should consult with their doctor about the need for antibiotics to prevent the risk of infection. 
  • Tattoos are not recommended for people with pacemakers, which could be adversely affected by the magnetic field of the tattoo machine. 
  • The risk of infection is high for people with a weak immune system, so it is advisable to consult with your doctor before getting a tattoo.  
  • People with epilepsy are generally advised against getting a tattoo because the action of the needle and the noise of the equipment could trigger a seizure, although medication is now available to control any such sudden episodes. It is advisable to consult with your doctor about how to avoid complications. 
  • Pregnancy lowers a woman's immune defences, making her more vulnerable. The skin also becomes more sensitive, increasing the risk of allergic reactions to pigments.

Puglia Region has approved “Regional Guidelines for the Health & Safety of Tattooing and Body Piercing Procedures” (Council Resolution No. 983 of 2016), which provide for training courses for tattoo artists and piercers and lay down the requirements to ensure the health and safety of both the public and the artists. 

 

The Prevention Departments of the local health authorities (ASL) are responsible for inspecting compliance with the hygiene practices and health and safety requirements at tattoo establishments licensed by the Region.  

 

If you are a tattoo professional, the annexes to the Guidelines contain the necessary documentation regarding setting up and making other changes to your business, as well as information you are required to provide to customers and the measures to be taken to ensure health, safety and hygiene at your establishment.