2013

What Do I Need to Do Before I Start Micropigmentation?

  • Cover all light fixtures, spray bottles and parts of the micropigmentation pen/machine that cannot be cleaned and disinfected (e.g. the cord). Use 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 and then disinfected between clients. Use 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.
  • Inspect the area of the skin that will be treated for inflammation or a rash. Avoid permanent makeup treatment within 6 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.

Do I Need to Keep Client Records?

  • Yes. 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 at least one year and on file for at least 5 years.

What Do I Need to Know About the Ink Caps and Ink?

  • Toronto Public Health recommends using disposable ink caps. Clean and disinfect the ink caps before using. Use 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.
  • 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.

Do I Need to Give Aftercare Instructions?

  • Yes.  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.

Related Information

Print Versions Available Upon Request in the Following Languages

For a copy of this document in the following languages, please email us at: BodySafe@toronto.ca

  • 中文 / Simplified Chinese
  • 中文 / Traditional Chinese
  • 한국어 / Korean
  • Tiếng Việt / Vietnamese