Safe Tattooing in Lebanon: Infection Control and HIV/STIs Awareness for Tattoo Artists 

An initiative by SIDC, Oxfam, and the National AIDS and TB Program in Lebanon

Beirut, Lebanon — In a groundbreaking move to bridge the gap between public health and alternative art communities, SIDC organized an interactive awareness session that brought together over 25 tattoo artists from across Lebanon. Held in collaboration with the National AIDS and TB Program and with the support of Oxfam, this initiative aimed to correct myths and promote facts about infection control in tattooing.

 Why Tattoo Safety Matters in Lebanon?

Tattooing involves needles, blood, and skin — and without proper hygiene, it can expose both artists and clients to serious blood-borne infections like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. In Lebanon, where regulation around tattoo safety is limited, awareness is a critical step toward protecting both health professionals and the public.

This session was a response to growing concerns around unsafe tattooing practices, especially in informal settings. By equipping artists with accurate knowledge and practical tools, SIDC and its partners are helping build a culture of responsibility and safety within the tattoo community.

Tackling Myths and Sharing Facts: A Unique Training Experience

Led by Dr. Pierre Abi Hanna, MD, Infection Diseases, Dr. Hiam Yaacoub, Director of NAP/NTP the session provided hands-on guidance on:

– Safe needle use and sterilization 

– Preventing cross-contamination

– Recognizing the symptoms of blo  od-borne infections 

– Addressing stigma around HIV and hepatitis in the tattoo industry

Participants shared their personal experiences, asked tough questions, and challenged long-held misconceptions. The session became a safe space for unlearning and re-learning, encouraging artists to adopt standardized infection control protocols that prioritize client and artist safety.

“As tattoo artists, we’re constantly working with sharp instruments, so prevention is essential, we need to stay careful at all times. This was a great refresher and reminder for us”. -Tattoo artist, Beirut

 A Step Toward Healthier, Safer Communities

At its core, this initiative is about more than just tattooing. It’s about public health, awareness and community-driven change. With ongoing support from Oxfam through the Masarouna project, SIDC is ensuring that even the most informal sectors of society have access to life-saving health information.

By engaging tattoo artists, often overlooked in public health efforts, this initiative took a powerful step forward in the prevention of HIV and hepatitis in Lebanon.

 Explore the Event Highlights:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DIwaewBRBEH

Frequently Asked

Q: How can tattoo artists in Lebanon prevent blood-borne infections like HIV and hepatitis? 

A: By using sterilized equipment, wearing gloves, ensuring proper waste disposal, and attending public health training sessions on infection control like the one hosted by SIDC.

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