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Choosing a Tattoo Artist

How can you choose a safe and trustworthy tattoo artist to work with? Try to look for a professional establishment. It is not absolutely necessary that you work with a commercial company, but a brick and mortar store should give you confidence that the company does good work and has maintained a good reputation over time. The most reliable vendors are usually members in a professional organization, and have certificates/awards of achievement prominently displaying in their window. However, a good tattooist does not have to belong to an organization.
Nevertheless, a self-employed tattooist should still be licensed in his or her local jurisdiction. Be sure that the individual artist (even within a company) has had formal training in bloodborne pathogens and knowledge of cross contamination. The tattoo artist and or the company should be approved by the local department of health. The best artists also make an effort to stay aware of the latest trends happening in the industry. Some states require that all artists take and pass a test on health and safety precautions. Some states require a current tattooist license and licensed facility. Obviously, do not trust anyone that breaks the aforementioned rules on tattoo hygiene.
Last but not least, be sure the parlor adheres to local laws on eligibility. It is illegal in most states for a tattooist to tattoo a child under the age of 18, even if he or she has parental consent. It is usually also illegal to tattoo someone who is mentally impaired in some way (as in drunk or stoned) or people who have certain types of skin conditions. Anyone mentally disabled, as well as pregnant or nursing women, might also be disqualified.

Genital Tattooing

Naturally, you cant assume that every parlor in town does genital tattooing, so it doesnt hurt to ask someone who works at the establishment before you bring out the merchandise. Genital tattoos are rarer than facial or bodily tattoos, though the practice certainly has its own niche audience. Its easy to understand why a tattoo artist would hesitate to perform this procedure; the area is extremely sensitive and usually covered with public hair. (Not to mention the fact that some artists just dont like drawing on someones elses balls) In general, it is difficult to draw these tattoos, especially original works, and the last thing a tattooist wants is a damaged penis lawsuit.
Often times, men who go for penis tattoos will also incorporate body piercings to complete an idea. Though this book isnt about piercing, the same rules apply regarding sterilization. When the penis is clean and properly cut, infection doesnt happen. Not all tattoo artists specialize in body modification, but then again, some do. You may have to consult two different artists or find one all-knowing genius. You can read a medical view of tattooing in the next chapter.