On the Use, Effectiveness, and Safety of Face Masks, Gloves, and Disinfectants to Prevent Transfer of Microbials between the Tattooist and the Customer: A Practical Review of Pros and Cons Including the Occupational Safety of the Tattooist.

Tattooists and their customers are under special risk of airborne infection because of the short distance during the procedure and the unavoidable exchange of expired and inhaled air potentially containing droplets holding pathogenic germs. Moreover, the manual procedure involves a significant risk of contamination through physical contact. A range of personal protective equipment (PPE) is available, including three-layered disposable surgical masks, cotton masks, respirators without or with expiration valve, visors and shields, goggles, medical gloves and aprons. Disinfectant fluids and wipes are used for skin and physical objects. Alcohol is used but may evaporate too fast and lose biocidal efficiency; it carries risk of fire. Alternatives such as chlorine and a range of new disinfectants listed in the EU biocide directive should be considered as alternatives. PPEs and disinfectants are subject to formal testing and classification. EU and US requirements are visited. No PPE and no disinfectant have 100% efficiency. Efficiency of masks is influenced negatively by the reduced breathability from masks and respirators with leakage of air between mask perimeter and the skin. Gloves have micro-porosity dependent on wear time and already after 30 min become less efficient. The humid microclimate under masks and gloves easily causes skin problems. Thus, there are many pros and cons to consider. Thoughts on ideal aim, sound sense and realistic application of PPE and disinfectants in daily routine in tattoo parlours are provided, the risk and health of the tattooist included.