Are Tattoo Shops Still Closed? What You Need to Know About Getting Inked During COVID-19

Are Tattoo Shops Still Closed? An Update on the Industry Amid COVID-19

Over the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on many industries, and tattoo shops were no exception. As we slowly return to normalcy, many are wondering, “Are tattoo shops still closed?” If you’ve been waiting to get that tattoo you’ve been thinking about for months or even years, you might be feeling frustrated by the delays. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the status of tattoo shops, the health and safety measures in place, and how to move forward in getting your next piece of ink.

1. The Impact of COVID-19 on Tattoo Shops

The tattoo industry was hit hard when the pandemic first started, with many tattoo shops being forced to close their doors for weeks or even months. The closures were part of the widespread shutdown of non-essential businesses that were necessary to curb the spread of the virus. As a result, tattoo enthusiasts found themselves with appointments postponed and no clear timeline for when they could safely resume their plans for body art.

During the closures, many tattoo artists and shops turned to online communication with their clients, providing virtual consultations, designing tattoos remotely, and even selling tattoo-related merchandise. As we navigated through the pandemic, tattoo shops slowly began reopening as restrictions eased, and health measures were implemented to keep both clients and artists safe.

2. Are Tattoo Shops Open Now?

Now that the world is adjusting to the “new normal,” the question remains—are tattoo shops still closed? Fortunately, many tattoo shops have reopened with new safety protocols in place. However, the situation varies by location, so it's important to check with your local shop for specific guidelines. Many states have lifted the strictest lockdown measures, allowing tattoo shops to resume business, but some areas may still have restrictions or require specific health measures like wearing masks and social distancing.

In larger cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, tattoo shops have returned to full operation with modified hours and new appointment booking systems. In contrast, smaller cities or towns might still have limited capacity or guidelines in place. It's always best to contact your favorite tattoo parlor directly to check their current status and any health measures they have implemented.

3. Health and Safety Measures in Tattoo Shops

As tattoo shops begin to reopen, the health and safety of both customers and staff are top priorities. Many tattoo studios are now implementing rigorous measures to ensure a safe environment. Some of the common safety practices include:

• Social distancing: Shops have rearranged their layouts to ensure that clients maintain distance from one another while getting tattooed.
• Mask policies: Both clients and artists are often required to wear face masks, especially in areas where COVID-19 cases are still prevalent.
• Appointment-only booking: To reduce the number of people in the shop at one time, many studios are offering appointment-only services to ensure proper spacing.
• Enhanced cleaning protocols: Frequent sanitization of equipment, workstations, and public areas is now a standard practice in tattoo shops.
• Contactless payment options: To minimize physical contact, many shops encourage or require contactless payment methods like credit cards or mobile payment apps.

4. How to Find a Safe Tattoo Shop Near You

Now that you know tattoo shops are reopening, you might be wondering how to find a safe place to get your next tattoo. Here are some tips on how to find a reputable and hygienic tattoo shop:

• Check online reviews: Read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the shop's cleanliness, customer service, and overall experience.
• Verify licensing: Ensure that the tattoo shop is licensed and that its artists have the proper certifications. Licensed professionals are typically required to follow strict hygiene standards.
• Call ahead: Contact the tattoo shop directly to ask about their health and safety measures. A responsible shop will be transparent about the steps they are taking to keep their clients safe.
• Look for a clean environment: When you visit a tattoo shop, look for cleanliness. The shop should be well-maintained, with sterile equipment and a tidy work area.

5. What to Expect When Getting Inked During COVID-19

If you're planning on getting a tattoo during the ongoing pandemic, there are a few things you should expect. While the process of getting a tattoo remains the same, you might notice some changes in the customer experience:

• Longer wait times: Due to increased safety measures, many tattoo shops have fewer appointments available, which means you might experience longer wait times before you can get inked.
• Pre-tattoo health screenings: Some shops might ask you to fill out a health questionnaire or take a temperature check before entering the studio.
• Restricted guest access: Many shops are limiting the number of people who can accompany you during your tattoo session, often allowing only one person to accompany the client.
• More personalized consultations: Virtual consultations or phone calls may replace face-to-face meetings to ensure social distancing.

6. Why You Shouldn't Delay Getting a Tattoo

If you've been waiting to get a tattoo, you might be wondering if it’s worth the wait or if you should put it off. While the pandemic has delayed many tattoo plans, there's no need to wait any longer to make your ink dreams a reality. With the right precautions in place, tattoo shops are as safe as ever, and artists are ready to bring your designs to life.

Additionally, getting a tattoo is a deeply personal experience. It’s a way to express yourself and commemorate important moments in your life. Now that the world is slowly recovering, there’s no better time than now to invest in something meaningful and permanent.

Conclusion

So, are tattoo shops still closed? For the most part, tattoo shops in many parts of the United States have reopened and are adhering to strict health and safety protocols. While some areas may still have limited capacity or restrictions, the tattoo industry is bouncing back stronger than ever. If you’re eager to get that tattoo you’ve been thinking about, it’s time to book an appointment and enjoy the process of getting inked safely.