TATTOOISTS across Brighton have breathed a sigh of relief as the Government announced they can reopen from Monday.

Along with nail bars, beauticians and gyms, the green light has been given to outdoor swimming pools as well as outdoor arts spaces to open.

Owner of the Tattoo Workshop, Stewart Francis said: “Wow, it’s amazing. 

“I’m so pleased, I don’t need to get a loan anymore so it’s perfect timing.” 

Many studio owners were forced to take out loans to see them through lockdown with fears about how their businesses would survive if the strict rules continued for the sector.

The Argus:

Mr Francis explained before today's announcement that he was “down thousands of pounds just to keep the shop alive” as lockdown measures had forced him to delve into his savings.

Tattoo studios are regulated by the local council, who inspect the cleanliness and hygiene of shops as well as tattooing practices.

Prior to lockdown, studios across the country had to follow strict rules for public health including the wearing of gloves and thoroughly cleaning all surfaces with medical grade disinfectant. 

Mr Francis said: “We are trained in cross contamination and it’s embedded in our practices.” 

The Argus:

Often spending upwards of six hours with one client, tattoo artists are able to keep their contact numbers down enabling a straightforward track and trace procedure. 

Mr Francis said: "I'm going to book in one client a day and work a full week from Monday.

“It's time to tattoo again and that's a good thing.” 

Delighted to be reopening, tattoo studios across Brighton will be gearing up for a busy week as they get themselves ready to open on Monday.