Red Flags to Watch for When Choosing a Tattoo Artist

Getting a tattoo is a big decision, and choosing the right artist is just as important as picking the design. A professional, experienced tattoo artist will ensure your tattoo not only looks amazing but also heals properly. However, not all tattoo artists follow proper safety and ethical standards. If you notice any of the following red flags, it’s best to walk away and find a more reputable artist.

1. Lack of Proper Licensing and Certifications

A professional tattoo artist should have the necessary licenses and certifications required by local health authorities. If an artist cannot provide proof of certification, it’s a huge red flag. Working with an unlicensed artist increases the risk of infection, cross-contamination, and poor-quality work.

What to Look For:

✅ A clearly displayed license in the shop.

✅ Certification in bloodborne pathogen training.

2. Unsanitary or Disorganized Work Environment

Tattooing involves open skin and blood, making hygiene a top priority. If the shop looks dirty, cluttered, or poorly maintained, it’s a sign that the artist doesn’t take sanitation seriously.

Warning Signs:

❌ Reusing needles or ink caps.

❌ A workstation covered in dust, clutter, or stains.

❌ No gloves, or changing gloves infrequently.

❌ Dirty floors, chairs, or equipment.

What to Look For:

✅ Artists using new, individually sealed needles.

✅ Disposable gloves worn and changed properly.

✅ Workstations cleaned and disinfected between clients.

3. No Portfolio or Low-Quality Work

A skilled tattoo artist should have a portfolio showcasing their best work. If an artist refuses to show you a portfolio or has low-quality designs, it’s a major red flag.

Warning Signs:

❌ Blurry, faded, or uneven tattoos.

❌ No healed tattoo photos (fresh tattoos always look good, but healed work shows true skill).

❌ Stolen or overly edited images (reverse search to check for originality).

What to Look For:

✅ A well-organized portfolio with diverse, high-quality work.

✅ Healed tattoo photos showing clean lines, smooth shading, and vibrant color retention.

4. Pushy or Disrespectful Behavior

A professional tattoo artist should respect your ideas and preferences. If they are rude, dismissive, or try to pressure you into a design you don’t want, it’s a sign they don’t value their clients.

Warning Signs:

❌ Ignoring your input or rushing the consultation.

❌ Pressuring you to get a tattoo you’re unsure about.

❌ Making inappropriate comments or being unprofessional.

What to Look For:

✅ An artist who listens, offers guidance, and respects your decisions.

✅ Clear, professional communication throughout the process.

5. Extremely Low Prices

While everyone loves a good deal, tattoos are permanent, and quality work comes at a fair price. If an artist charges significantly less than others in your area, they might be cutting corners on ink quality, equipment, or hygiene.

Warning Signs:

❌ “Too good to be true” pricing.

❌ No deposit required (most reputable artists ask for one).

❌ Working from home or unlicensed locations without proper sterilization.

What to Look For:

✅ Transparent pricing that reflects the artist’s skill level and experience.

✅ A clear breakdown of costs, including deposits and session rates.

6. No Aftercare Instructions

A professional tattoo artist should always provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing. If an artist tattoos you and sends you off without any guidance, they are not invested in your healing process.

Warning Signs:

❌ No aftercare information given.

❌ Giving vague or incorrect healing advice.

❌ Recommending unsafe practices (like wrapping your tattoo for days).

What to Look For:

✅ Clear, written aftercare instructions.

✅ The artist answering your aftercare questions patiently.

7. No Respect for Safety Standards

Tattooing involves working with blood, ink, and open skin, so strict safety standards are essential. If an artist doesn’t use fresh gloves, disposable razors, or single-use ink caps, they are putting your health at serious risk.

Warning Signs:

❌ Not opening new needles in front of you.

❌ Dipping into shared ink instead of using disposable caps.

❌ Reusing gloves or not wearing them at all.

What to Look For:

✅ A fresh needle and ink setup for every client.

✅ The artist disposing of used materials properly.

Final Thoughts

Getting a tattoo should be a safe, comfortable, and professional experience. If you notice any of these red flags, trust your instincts and find an artist who prioritizes hygiene, quality, and professionalism.

✅ Always research your tattoo artist.

✅ Check reviews, portfolios, and shop cleanliness.

✅ Never settle for cheap, rushed, or unsafe work—tattoos are permanent!

Have you ever encountered a red flag tattoo artist? Share your experience in the comments!