LAC 51:XXVIII.131. Tattoo and Permanent Cosmetic Procedures; Preparation and Aftercare [formerly paragraph 28:016]

A. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-1] During preparation, performance of service, and aftercare phases all substances shall be dispensed from containers in a manner to prevent contamination of the unused portion. Use of a covered spray bottle to apply liquid to skin is acceptable and will enhance the prevention of cross-contamination. Single use tubes or containers and applicators shall be discarded following tattoo service. B. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-2] The client's skin shall be cleansed, excluding the areas surrounding the eyes, by washing with a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) compliant antiseptic solution applied with a clean single-use paper product before placing the design on the client's skin or beginning tattooing work. C. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-3] If the area is to be shaved, the operator shall use a single use disposable safety razor and then rewash client's skin. D. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-4] Substances applied to client's skin to transfer design from stencil or paper shall be single use. Paper stencils and skin scribes shall be single-use and disposed of immediately following service. E. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-5] Body pencils used during a tattoo and permanent cosmetic service shall have the tip removed, the body and tip of the pen disinfected, and the tip sharpened to remove exposed edge after use on a client and prior to use on another client. F. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-6] The plastic or acetate stencil used to transfer the design to the client's skin shall be thoroughly cleansed and rinsed in an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved high-level disinfectant according to the manufacturers instructions and then dried with a clean single-use paper product. G. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-7] Individual portions of inks, dyes, or pigments dispensed from containers or bottles into single-use containers shall be used for each client. Any remaining unused ink, dye or pigments shall be discarded immediately following service and shall not be re-used on another client. H. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-8] Excess ink, dye, or pigment applied to the client's skin shall be removed with clean single-use paper product. I. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-9] Use of styptic pencils or alum solids to check any blood flow is prohibited. J. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-10] Upon completion of tattooing, the operator shall cleanse the skin, excluding the area surrounding the eyes, with a clean, single-use paper product saturated with an EPA-approved antiseptic solution. K. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-11] A sanitary covering shall be placed over designs and adhered to the skin with suitable medical skin tape. L. [Formerly paragraph 28:016-12] Each operator shall provide aftercare, which shall consist of both verbal and written instructions concerning proper care of the tattooed skin. Instructions shall specify the following information: 1. care following the procedure; 2. advise clients to contact the body art operator or a qualified health care professional at the first sign of abnormal inflammation, swelling or possible infection; and 3. restrictions.