Tattooing has become more popular and socially acceptable in recent years and the growth in demand has also risen due to the increasing number of celebrities and sportspeople who now have tattoos.

Some tattoo artists also offer temporary tattoos and other specialist services such as cosmetic tattooing and more extreme forms of body modification such as scarification and branding. Some also carry out body piercing.

Tattoo artists usually work in their own studio or tattoo parlour, although some have mobile premises, such as a specially equipped van or trailer, visiting fairs and festivals.

Although many tattoo artists and tattoo studios or parlours also provide body piercing services, this is not covered in this profile.

The tattooing industry is strictly regulated. Before starting to trade, tattoo artists and their premises must be either registered or licensed with their local authority, depending on where they are located in the UK, and they must adhere to strict hygiene requirements. It is an offence to tattoo anyone aged 17 or under, regardless of parental consent.

This profile provides information about starting up and trading as a tattoo artist. It describes the skills required, the training available, the current market trends and the key trading issues. It also explains the legislation that must be complied with and provides sources of further information and support.