What Is Cross-Contamination—and Why Does It Matter?
Cross-contamination occurs when germs or pathogens are unintentionally transferred from one surface, tool, or person to another. In the body art industry, preventing cross-contamination is critical for client safety, your health, and your professional reputation.
Key Prevention Strategies
- Always use new gloves: Change gloves between every task and client. Never touch clean equipment with dirty gloves.
- Disinfect surfaces often: Clean workstations before and after each client with approved disinfectants.
- Single-use equipment: Use sterile, disposable needles, tubes, and pigment caps. Properly dispose of all sharps in approved containers.
- Avoid phone and device use: Keep phones, tablets, and other personal items away from your workstation during procedures.
- Educate your team: Make sure everyone in your studio follows strict hygiene and safety protocols.
By understanding and preventing cross-contamination, you build trust, keep your workspace safe, and set yourself apart as a true professional.