Tattoo Ink Assignment

By: Ryan O’Neill

1. Tattoos breach the skin, which means that skin infections and other complications are
possible, including: allergic reactions, skin infections, bloodborne disease, and MRI
complications.

2. The regulations currently applied to tattoo parlours in Ontario are:

- Skin should not be tattooed if there are signs of infection or open skin areas.”
- Shop must be divided into two parts, clean and dirty
- Shop must have good ventilation
- All surfaces should be constructed of materials that are smooth, non-porous and easily
cleaned
- All items that pierce the skin must be precleaned and appropriately
- Single-use needles should be discarded right after they are used or once they pass their
expiration date
- Needles must only be used for one colour
- Needles must only be used for one tattooing session
- The area being tattooed must be shaved and cleaned with 70% alcohol
- Before beginning, the artist must wash his or her hands and put on single-use gloves.
- Work surfaces should be cleaned with a low level disinfectant

Canada has very minimal federal regulation on tattoos and their inks. Health Canada has
classified tattoo inks as cosmetics. However, all other products that are administered through
ingestion, inhalation or injections are not classified. This means that Canada has little to no
regulations on the Ink parlours in Ontario.

3. I think the tattoo industry does need to be more regulated. Tattooing does not pose much
danger when done properly and by a professional. However, the number of cases and
problems regarding tattooing proves that the industry needs to be regulated to a higher
standard.

4. Canada Blood services does not let people donate blood if they have recently received a
tattoo because tattoos risk you catching a disease and you should not donate blood if
you have a disease. This is to prevent any complications and to stop the spread of
infectious diseases.
A.
Pros:
1. Self-expression: Tattoos are a way to express your individuality and personal style.
2. Symbolism: Tattoos can have personal or cultural meaning, representing something
significant to the person. Tattoos can be considered an art form and a skill for the tattoo
artist
 3. Permanence: For some people, the idea of having a permanent mark on their body is
appealing and adds to the significance of the tattoo.
4. Social acceptance: Tattoos have become more mainstream and widely accepted in
many cultures and societies.

Cons:
1. Health risks: If proper safety and hygiene protocols are not followed, there is a risk of
infection, allergic reactions, and other health complications.
2. Permanence: For some people, the idea of a permanent mark on their body is a
disadvantage, as their preferences and styles may change over time.
3. Social stigma: While tattoos are more socially accepted than in the past, some people
and cultures may still hold negative stereotypes and opinions about people with tattoos.

B.
The question of getting a tattoo is ultimately a personal choice, and while there are potential
risks associated with getting a tattoo, these risks can be minimized by taking proper
precautions. The biggest concerns include the risk of infection, allergic reactions, scarring and
keloids, and the transmission of bloodborne diseases. However, reputable tattoo shops take
strict precautions to prevent these risks, such as using sterile equipment and disposable
needles. It's important to choose a reputable tattoo artist and follow proper aftercare instructions
to minimize the risk of complications. Ultimately, the decision to get a tattoo should be based on
an individual's personal health and safety concerns.

Works Cited
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/tattoos-and-piercings/a
rt-20045067

https://www.trinitybj.com/blog/articles/canadian-tattoo-and-piercing-regulations

https://www.cosmeticsandtoiletries.com/regulations/regional/blog/21837677/tattoos-per
manent-makeup-and-regulatory-uncertainty