Micropigmentation – Infection Prevention and Control

  • Cover all light fixtures, spray bottles and parts of the micropigmentation pen/machine that cannot be cleaned and disinfected (e.g. the cord) using a single-use plastic wrap. A new plastic wrap must be used for each client.
  • The parts of the micropigmentation pen that can be reused must first be cleaned with soap and water, dried, and then disinfected between clients using a high-level disinfectant. Toronto Public Health highly recommends that you use pens or machines that use pre-packaged, sterile, single-use parts.
  • The part of the pen that holds the needle must be sterile. These “needle holders or tips” should be purchased pre-packaged, sterile and single use.
  • Clean and disinfect headrests, worktables, and chairs between clients. Use a low-level disinfectant.
  • Provide the client with information about the procedure and any associated risks.
  • Inspect the area of the skin that will be treated for inflammation or a rash. Avoid permanent makeup treatment within six inches of skin that is inflamed, infected or with a rash.
  • Clean your hands before putting on single-use disposable gloves and after removing gloves.
  • Use a new pair of single-use disposable gloves for each client.
  • Clean the area of the skin with an approved antiseptic such as 70% isopropyl alcohol. Use a disposable swab.
  • Dispense creams, lotions, ointments, and ink in a manner that prevents contamination.
  • If a razor is required to shave the area, it must be sterile and discarded immediately after use into an approved sharps container. Sharps containers cannot be discarded with municipal garbage.

Needle cartridges are used by many artists and aestheticians. There are two types of needle cartridges, cartridges with a protective membrane (also known as a safety membrane or backflow preventer), and cartridges without a protective membrane.

Needle cartridges with a protective membrane reduce the risk of blood and body fluids contaminating equipment and transmitting bloodborne pathogens such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV

All needle cartridges that connect onto a device must have a protective membrane. Proof that the cartridge has a protective membrane is required on-site at the personal service setting.

Acceptable proof that a cartridge has a protective membrane:

  • It is written on the box the cartridge comes in.
  • It is written on the individual needle cartridge sterile container/package.
  • It is written on the manufacturer’s website for that specific cartridge.
  • Written communication from the manufacturer such as an email.

Information provided by suppliers or retailers is not accepted as proof.

Remember:

  • Always use individually pre-packaged and sterile needle cartridges.
  • Double-check that the packaging has not been compromised.
  • Open packages in front of your client.
  • When any commercially purchased sterile items arrive onsite, record the details on the ‘Commercially Purchased Prepackaged and Sterile Items Records”. A sample record is available. PDF
  • Open packages in front of your client.
  • Record each needle cartridge lot number on the client record. A sample invasive client record is available PDF. Keep the records for three years with a minimum of one year (365 days) on-site.
  • Immediately discard the used cartridge into an approved sharps container. Do not reuse.
  • The machine, grip tube/sleeve, clip cord, pigment bottles and squirt bottles used during the service must be covered with a single-use, disposable protective cover. Once the cover is discarded the item is to be cleaned and disinfected with an intermediate level disinfectant.
  • Record the client’s name, address, telephone number, date and type of procedure, and record the name of the person who will provide the service.
  • Keep records for instruments or needles purchased as pre-packaged and sterile for tracking purposes.
  • Keep client records and accidental exposures on-site for for three years with a minimum of one year (365 days) on site.
    • Clean and disinfect disposable ink caps before using with an intermediate-level disinfectant such as 70% isopropyl alcohol.
    • Discard disposable ink caps after each client. Discard any leftover ink. Use a new disposable ink cap if additional ink is required during the procedure.
    • Foam inserts are not allowed to be used.
    • Ring ink caps are not recommended due to the occupational risk.
    • All reusable ink caps must be sterilized between clients.
    • If an ink cap holder is used, it must be cleaned and disinfected between clients. Use a high-level disinfectant.
    • Sterile water should be used if diluting ink. Do not use tap water to dilute ink.
      • Every client should be told and receive written information on how to care for their permanent makeup and what they should do if it becomes red, swollen or uncomfortable.