ARSD 44:12:01:28. Tattoo application

Before tattooing the design on the patron's skin, the tattoo artist shall apply a thin coating of a petroleum jelly or antibacterial ointment over the area to be tattooed. The coating must be applied with cotton swabs, gauze, or wooden tongue depressors that must be immediately discarded. The coating may not be directly applied with an ungloved hand.