How to check a studio's hygiene and licensing before you book

You've found an artist whose portfolio catches your eye and you're thinking of booking that appointment. Before you hand over your design and sit in the chair, you need to verify that the studio meets basic health and safety standards. A great portfolio means nothing if the environment isn't clean or the practitioner isn't properly trained and registered.

Check the practitioner's credentials and training

Start by asking directly: what qualifications and certifications does the artist hold? In South Africa, tattoo and piercing practitioners should ideally hold a relevant qualification or certification in bloodborne pathogens, sterilisation and infection control. Ask the studio to show you proof. This might be a certificate in Health and Safety for Piercing and Tattooing or equivalent training recognised in the industry. Don't accept vague answers—you're looking for documented evidence of formal training, not just "I've been doing this for years."

Check whether they hold a valid First Aid and CPR certification. This matters if something goes wrong during the procedure. Ask when they last renewed it. You can also ask if they're registered with any professional body or association relevant to their work; while the tattoo industry in South Africa isn't as heavily regulated as some professions, responsible practitioners often maintain memberships or certifications that show they take standards seriously.

While you're at it, confirm their public liability insurance is current. This protects both you and them if complications arise. A reputable studio will volunteer this information or produce proof without hesitation.

Inspect the studio's cleanliness and sterilisation practice

When you visit in person, observe the studio's cleanliness. Is the work area visibly clean and well-lit? Are instruments stored in sealed, dated sterilisation pouches? A professional studio will not keep needles, tubes or ink in open containers. All single-use items—needles, ink caps, gloves—should come from sealed, sterile packaging opened fresh in front of you during your session. Ask to see where these supplies are stored and how they manage waste.

Ask how they sterilise reusable equipment. The gold standard is an autoclave—a machine that uses steam under pressure to eliminate pathogens. Request to see the autoclave and ask when it was last tested for effectiveness. Autoclaves require regular calibration and maintenance; a log should be on hand. If they tell you they use a different method, ask for specifics. Chemical soaking alone is not sufficient for deep sterilisation of piercing equipment.

Inspect the bathroom and hand-washing area. Is soap and clean running water available? Does the artist wash their hands and put on fresh gloves before starting? These are non-negotiable basics.

Ask for references and follow up with them

Request contact details of at least two people who've had work done recently—within the last three to six months. When you call or WhatsApp them, ask specific questions: Did the studio feel hygienic? Did the artist explain aftercare clearly? Did they follow up to check healing was normal? Did they experience any infection or complication? What would they do differently, if anything?

A reference who's happy to talk and reports no issues is a good sign. Be wary if the studio can't provide any, or if references sound scripted or are unwilling to discuss their experience honestly.

You can also search for the studio online—check Google reviews and social media for patterns. One or two complaints are normal; multiple reports of infection, unprofessional conduct or unsanitary conditions are red flags.

Once you've confirmed credentials, inspected the space and spoken to past clients, you've done your due diligence. The peace of mind is worth the effort. Finding a verified tattoo or piercing studio on Strove means you can filter by location, read reviews and check credentials in one place before you even reach out.