For the Public

Your guide to safe body art, finding certified professionals, and making informed choices.

Why Choose a Certified Professional?

Getting a tattoo or piercing isn't just about art – it's a medical procedure that breaks the skin. Certification means the artist has been verified to meet our rigorous safety standards.

🔐 What Certification Guarantees:
Medical-grade sterilization of all equipment
Use of single-use, sterile needles for every client
Proper studio setup with separate clean/dirty areas
Safe disposal of sharps and biological waste
Artist training in bloodborne pathogens
Valid business license and health department compliance
✅ How to Verify a Professional
  1. Check our Directory - All certified members are listed on our Directory page
  2. Look for the Badge - Certified studios display our official window decal
  3. Ask for Certification Number - Every certified professional has a unique ID (e.g., CPT-TAT-001)
  4. Verify Online - Use our contact form to confirm a certification
⚠️ Red Flags to Watch For:
  • ❌ Cannot produce certification documentation
  • ❌ Reuses needles or doesn't open them in front of you
  • ❌ Studio is visibly unclean or disorganized
  • ❌ No autoclave (sterilization machine) present

Before Your Appointment

Questions to Ask
  • "Can I see your certification?"
  • "How do you sterilize equipment?"
  • "Can you open the needle in front of me?"
  • "What aftercare do you recommend?"
  • "What's your experience with this style?"
Health Preparation
  • Stay hydrated and eat before your appointment
  • Avoid alcohol 24 hours before
  • Get a good night's sleep
  • Wear appropriate clothing
  • Bring any reference images
Aftercare Essentials
  • Follow your artist's instructions exactly
  • Keep the area clean and dry initially
  • Use recommended ointments sparingly
  • Avoid swimming for 2-4 weeks
  • Protect from sun exposure

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should a tattoo or piercing cost?

Quality and safety cost money. Beware of prices that seem too good to be true. Certified professionals invest in proper equipment, sterilization, and training. A small tattoo might start at R800-R1500, while piercings typically range from R300-R800 depending on jewelry and location.

What if I have a bad reaction or infection?

Contact the artist immediately and seek medical attention if needed. Certified professionals carry professional liability insurance and should provide proper aftercare support. You can also report concerns to us for investigation.

How old do I need to be?

In South Africa, you must be 18+ for tattoos. For piercings, minors typically need parental consent and accompaniment. Certified professionals will always check ID and obtain proper consent.

Can I get a tattoo if I'm pregnant?

Most certified professionals will not tattoo pregnant or breastfeeding individuals due to potential risks. Always disclose any medical conditions to your artist.

How do I find an artist for a specific style?

Use our Directory to browse by specialty. Look at artists' portfolios, and don't hesitate to ask for consultations. A good artist will be honest about whether your desired style matches their expertise.

Report a Safety Concern

If you've had a negative experience with a certified professional, or suspect an uncertified artist is posing as certified, please report it to us. All reports are confidential and investigated by our Ethics Committee.

Submit a Report
🛡️
Your Safety Matters

We're here to protect the public and uphold professional standards.