New York Tattoo License Practice Test

Which antiseptic is recommended for cleaning skin prior to tattooing?

1. 50% ethanol

2. 70% isopropyl alcohol

3. 10% bleach solution

4. 30% hydrogen peroxide

The correct answer is: 70% isopropyl alcohol

Using 70% isopropyl alcohol as an antiseptic to clean the skin prior to tattooing is based on its effective antimicrobial properties. Isopropyl alcohol at this concentration effectively kills a broad spectrum of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it an excellent choice for sanitizing the skin. The 70% concentration is particularly effective because it allows enough time for the alcohol to penetrate the cell walls of microorganisms while still evaporating relatively quickly. In contrast, other options like 50% ethanol might not be as effective due to lower concentration, and a 10% bleach solution can be too harsh and damaging to skin tissue, possibly leading to irritation or infection. Similarly, a 30% hydrogen peroxide solution is also too strong and can cause skin damage, which is not ideal before a tattoo procedure. Therefore, 70% isopropyl alcohol is recommended for its safety and effectiveness in maintaining a sterile environment for tattooing.