FAQs

What laws and regulations govern tattoos in Switzerland?

Tattooing is an art—but it’s also a craft.

And as with any trade, there are clear rules to ensure that everything is done safely, hygienically, and professionally.

In Switzerland, tattooing is regulated by variouslaws and guidelinesdesigned to protect both tattoo studios and tattoo enthusiasts.

Here you can find out what is allowed, what is required, and what you should keep in mind.

⚖️ Why there are guidelines for tattoos

Tattoos involve penetrating the skin and, therefore, the body. For this reason, similar hygiene standards apply here as for medical or cosmetic procedures.

Laws and guidelines are intended to ensure that:

health risksareminimized,
Studios must maintain hygienic working conditions,
andcustomersareprotected.

In short: These rules aren't meant to stifle creativity, but to ensure your safety.

🧾 The most important legal principles in Switzerland

In Switzerland, tattooing is not “state-licensed,” but it is clearly regulated. There are regulations regardinghygiene, reporting requirements, and the materials used.

Reporting requirement

Since 2017, anyone offering tattooing or permanent makeup services has been required toregister with the state. This applies to studios, mobile artists, and guest tattoo artists.

Hygiene regulations

Tattoo studios must be able to demonstrate thatthey operate in a clean and sterile environment.

This includes:

Disinfection of all surfaces and equipment,
Disposable supplies (e.g., needles, gloves),
Separate work and break areas.

Colors & Materials

The tattoo inks used must beREACH-compliant—that is, they must meet EU safety standards (including in Switzerland).

💡 The responsibility lies with the tattoo studio, but you, as a customer, can also ask—reputable artists will be happy to answer your questions.

🩹 How Switzerland monitors compliance

Tattoo studios are inspected bycantonal authorities(usually the food safety agency or the public health department).

They check:

Cleanliness & Amenities,
compliance with the reporting requirement,
and, in some cases, proof of training.

Anyone who violates the rules risks receiving a warning or a fine.

🧴 Why this is important for you, too

If you're getting a tattoo, there are a few questions you can ask to make sure you're making the right choice:

Is the studio registered?
Are disposable materials used?
Are care instructions provided?

A good tattoo studio operates transparently and will often recommend suitableaftercare products right away to ensure your tattoo heals properly.

SKULLTRESS™ Balm & Oil– Swiss-made, vegan, natural – are the perfect companions during this phase: gentle, hygienic, and skin-friendly.

💬 Law + Responsibility = Safety

Getting a tattoo in Switzerland is safe—thanks to clear guidelines and professional artists.
If you choose a reputable studio and take aftercare seriously, you’ll be in good hands.

✨In short: