Unlicensed Tattoo Artists Spark Skin Infection Surge Among Milwaukee Minors—Here’s How to Stay Safe in 2025
The Milwaukee Health Department investigates illegal tattooing after a spike in rare skin infections among local minors. All you need to know.
- 3 minors diagnosed with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections after tattoos in 2024–2025.
- $614 fine issued to unlicensed tattooist Jonathan Beasley for tattooing minors.
- Ongoing investigations into additional unlicensed tattoo operations in Milwaukee.
- NTM symptoms: Pain, swelling, and pus could last 2–3 months if untreated.
The vibrant tattoo culture in Milwaukee took a shocking turn this year as the city’s health officials linked a surge in dangerous skin infections in minors to unlicensed tattoo operations. As tattoo popularity climbs among teens nationwide, health concerns are now in the spotlight for 2025.
Milwaukee’s health department sprang into action after a 2024 report of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infection—an uncommon but stubborn skin disease—traced back to a tattoo procedure on a minor. Within weeks, two more minors surfaced with the same infection. City officials and the Milwaukee Health Department confirmed the cases are linked to tattooing without proper licenses—specifically, unlicensed artist Jonathan Beasley, now facing citations and over $600 in fines.
What Is Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM)?
NTM is an environmental bacterium that thrives in water and soil—harmless for most, but a nightmare when it gets under the skin via dirty needles or contaminated ink. Symptoms can include swelling, persistent pain, redness, and even pus-filled drainage at the tattoo site. Although NTM infections typically heal in two to three months, medical treatment is crucial for full recovery and preventing scarring.
Why Is Tattoo Safety a 2025 Trend?
Tattoos are booming, with Gen Z and Millennials leading the charge. But as tattoo festivals like the 2024 Milwaukee Tattoo Arts Festival showcase the industry’s artistry and innovation, unlicensed “kitchen table” operations are infiltrating the market—and current outbreaks highlight the dangers. According to experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sterile technique and licensed shops are nonnegotiable for a safe tattoo experience.
Q&A: How Can Parents and Teens Spot Illegal Tattoo Ops?
Q: What’s the first red flag when considering a tattoo?
Ask to see a valid, city-issued tattoo license. Licensed artists should display both their shop and practitioner licenses, with no hesitation.
Q: What basic safety measures should every tattoo shop follow?
– Copies of sanitary protocols in plain view
– Disposable gloves and new, sterile needles for each client
– Use of distilled water for ink—not tap water
– Clear aftercare instructions
Q: What should you do if your new tattoo looks infected?
Contact your healthcare provider immediately for an official diagnosis. Early treatment prevents serious complications.
How Can You Protect Yourself (and Your Kids) in 2025?
– Research tattoo artists before booking—read authentic reviews and verify certifications at the FDA.
– Never allow minors to receive tattoos—licensed professionals strictly verify age.
– Demand to see sanitation procedures and licenses.
– For aftercare, follow instructions precisely to avoid infection.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe!
Keep up with the latest public health alerts and protect yourself from dangerous, unlicensed tattoo parlors.
Checklist: Avoid Unsafe Tattoos in 2025
- ✅ Ask to see shop and practitioner licenses
- ✅ Observe strict sanitation and clean tools
- ✅ Confirm ink is mixed with sterile, not tap, water
- ✅ Refuse tattoos if you’re underage—report shady operations to local authorities
- ✅ Seek medical help at the first sign of infection
Your skin deserves more than a bargain tattoo. Demand safety, certification, and skill—every time.