Getting Tattooed Post COVID-19
Photo: Lucas Lenzi
It’s surreal to think countries around the world have been left at a standstill for the last two to three months. From vacations, weddings to dinner reservations and even tattoo appointments. The massive social and economic disruption brought on by COVID-19 has left many people in isolation and plenty of time to daydream about pre-pandemic days. Now, as Ontario begins to loosen restrictions, many people are preparing to return back to normalcy. But without a vaccine, the term ‘normal’ will likely have a different meaning in the coming months.
So, if you’re looking to pick up where you left off and plan on booking your next tattoo appointment, be sure to familiarize yourself with the latest shop etiquette and practices to prevent a resurge in cases. Here are three things to consider when getting tattooed post COVID-19:
Shop Layout: Floor plans that require artists to work elbow to elbow are at a higher risk of cross-contamination and airborne infections. Contamination control is unsustainable in heavily congested workrooms and can leave clients vulnerable to airborne pathogens. This is especially hazardous during times of heightened risk such as flu season. Whether you’re a tattoo collector or it’s your very first, we highly recommend being cautious and reconsider getting tattooed in common workrooms with over five occupants.
Guests: Support systems are always nice to have but in an effort to limit the number of occupants in the vicinity at one time, shops will likely request clients to arrive to their appointments alone. That way, businesses can continue to practice social distancing and reduce and prevent transmittable airborne risks.
Masks: Recommended by the CDC, the main purpose of wearing a mask is to prevent the outward spread of virus from presymptomatic people. A mask creates a physical barrier between you and your artist and helps reduce the spread of infection as well as help prevent the individual from contracting any airborne infectious germs.