Why Do Tattoo Artists Wear Black Gloves?
Creating body art is an exercise in precision and safety. Gloves must be durable to protect against potential dangers like pathogens yet flexible to permit dexterity. Artists wear black tattoo gloves as more than a fashion statement.
Tattoo Artists Wear Black Gloves as a Safety Precaution
Germs can spread quickly without the correct personal protective equipment (PPE). Tattoo artist gloves are a must for hardworking creators.
Black nitrile models are popular because they’re the safest for everyone. These gloves secure artists against issues like:
- Workspace contamination: Gloves prevent germ transmission between clients and onto essential equipment.
- Infection: Tattooing creates a wound. Gloves lower the risk of disease and encourage healing.
- Contact dermatitis: Artists can develop ink sensitivity and experience dry, itchy, flaky skin or hives. Nitrile gloves form an effective barrier to guard against discomfort and protect from ink stains.
Nitrile Gloves Versus Latex and Vinyl Gloves
Many body art creators prefer nitrile to the traditional latex and vinyl because:
- It’s sturdier: Nitrile holds up better against punctures, protecting both artist and client from potential contamination.
- It offers agility: A tattooist often performs very detailed work. Nitrile gloves allow better control and precision than vinyl, which can be bulkier and lack grip.
- It’s skin-friendly: Artists and patients alike may have sensitivities to latex.
- It reduces hand fatigue: The nitrile material is flexible and comfortable enough for extended wear.
Tattoo Shop Safety
Artists must abide by the tattoo shop rules and regulations in their area. Doing so ensures the highest safety standards for customers and protects the artist’s livelihood.
Some of these precautions include:
- Protective equipment: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates all artists to wear gloves during the procedure. The tattooist can introduce germs and irritants to a customer’s system and is most at risk from close customer contact. Correctly using PPE — like changing gloves between customers and following protocol establishes — establishes safer conditions overall.
- Practical and convenient sterilization processes: Any small equipment requiring sterilization should go to a designated area immediately after use. Furnishings and larger tools also need disinfection after each use. Covering hard-to-clean machinery and exposed cords with plastic bags increases the studio’s cleanliness.
Get Black Gloves for Your Tattoo Parlor
When safety is your priority, SUNLINE Supply should be your first thought. Our commitment to healthier studios and affordable bulk pricing keeps you productive and saves you money. Browse our entire selection of tattoo artist gloves or PPE online 24/7, or reach out online to a SUNLINE Supply expert for more information.
