Microblading and traditional tattooing both place pigment into the skin, but the services are not identical. Microblading is a form of cosmetic tattooing that is often used to create eyebrow strokes. Traditional tattooing usually focuses on body art and may involve different equipment, techniques, and service settings.
Because both procedures break the skin, they share some risks. Still, the type of service can affect the claims an artist may face and the insurance a business should consider.
What Risks Do Microblading and Traditional Tattooing Share?
Both services can lead to claims involving infection, allergic reactions, scarring, or dissatisfaction with the finished work. The FDA notes that tattooing and permanent makeup can cause infections and allergic reactions. Contaminated ink can also create problems even when an artist follows hygienic procedures.
Blood exposure is also a risk. OSHA identifies microblading as permanent cosmetic eyebrow tattooing and notes that the procedure uses needle groupings to insert pigment under the skin. OSHA also says tattoo workers with expected blood exposure may fall under its Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. These risks make professional liability insurance important for both types of artists.
How Can Microblading Claims Be Different?
Microblading is usually performed on the face, often around the eyebrows. Small differences in shape, color, or placement can be very noticeable. A client may allege poor results, uneven brows, scarring, or another injury related to the service.
Microblading artists may also work in salons, permanent makeup studios, or other beauty settings. Some travel to clients or attend shows and events. Insurance should reflect where the artist works and the services performed.
Our Cosmetic Tattoo Insurance and Microblading Insurance program covers microblading, embroidery, traditional machine-method permanent makeup, and SofTap®. Eligible off-site liability coverage is also included automatically.
What Risks Are More Common in a Traditional Tattoo Studio?
Traditional tattoo businesses may have different day-to-day exposures. A studio may use several artists, host guest artists, or handle a wider range of body art services. Claims can involve the tattoo work itself, customer injuries at the shop, or damage to business property.
Our Tattoo and Body Piercing Insurance program includes general liability, professional liability, abusive acts liability, and property coverage. It also automatically includes temporary guest artists, independent contractors, and eligible off-site work.
Why Does the Type of Insurance Matter?
A general business policy may not address every risk tied to tattooing or cosmetic tattoo services. Professional liability is especially important because it focuses on claims related to the work an artist performs. General liability addresses different risks, such as a client slipping in the studio or certain property damage claims.
Property coverage may also matter for machines, furniture, supplies, and other insured business contents. We offer property coverage under both programs, although property coverage is not available in Florida.
Do Microblading Artists and Tattoo Artists Need the Same Policy?
Not always. The risks overlap, but the policy should match the actual services performed. A microblading artist should have coverage designed for cosmetic tattooing. A traditional tattoo studio should ensure its policy covers tattoo work, artists, and studio operations.
We offer separate programs for cosmetic tattoo artists and tattoo and body piercing businesses. If your business performs more than one type of service, contact Marine Agency to discuss which coverage fits your operations.
