Many Americans get tattoos each year. In fact, recent polls suggest that 15% of all Americans currently have tattoos, with younger generations making up the largest part of the trend. People get tattoos for many reasons, but they all have one thing in common: they are permanent.
Unfortunately, some of the side effects of getting a tattoo may be permanent, too. This usually depends on the cleanliness of the tattoo parlor as well as an individual's sensitivity to the ink being used for his or her design.
Tattooing occurs when ink is injected below the outer layer of skin on an individual. To achieve this, artists use specialized needles that deliver the ink to the desired places. These needles are meant for one-time use; as such, artists are supposed to use new ones for each individual they tattoo.
Additionally, the parts of the machine that house the needle must be sterilized, as this tool may come into contact with an individual's skin. This is also why artists are supposed to wear gloves while tattooing individuals.
The room where an individual gets tattooed must also be clean and sterile before an individual gets his or her work done. Recently tattooed areas are highly susceptible to infection as the area is essentially covered in puncture wounds, which is why a sterile environment is important.
When a parlor fails to use clean needles, have clean areas, or sterilize its machines, individuals may suffer from diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, skin infections, and other blood-borne diseases.
In the event that an individual catches a disease after getting a tattoo, the individual may be entitled to financial compensation for his or her medical expenses.
