Skin piercing treatments

Is your tattoo artist registered?

We register tattoo artists and their premises to ensure safe and hygienic practices. Using an unregistered tattooist (known as a “scratcher”) can lead to:

• poor quality tattoos
• serious health risks, including hepatitis B and HIV

Always check that your tattoo artist is registered with us.

Health risks of unregistered tattooing

Unregistered tattooists may:

• use poor-quality or non-sterile equipment
• operate in unhygienic conditions
• increase your risk of infection, scarring, or disease

Underage tattooing

The Tattooing of Minors Act 1969 states that it is an offence to tattoo a person under the age of 18. Unregistered tattooists operate illegally and can be negligent when it comes to checking the age of their customers. Report underage tattooing to the police by calling 101, or contact our Licensing Team.

How to stay safe

Before getting a tattoo:

• check our list of registered tattoo artists
• make sure the studio is clean and equipment is sterilised
• ask how equipment is sterilised (e.g. autoclave or sealed disposables)
• ensure the artist uses a new needle from a sealed package
• watch the artist wash their hands and put on fresh gloves

Tattoo Hygiene Rating Scheme

We operate the Tattoo Hygiene Rating Scheme. This is a voluntary scheme that provides customers with important information about the hygiene and safety at local tattoo studios. 

Report concerns

If you’re worried about a tattoo artist operating illegally, please contact our licensing team.