The Michigan Health Department requires a signed physician’s order (prescription/note) to use topical numbing during your tattoo service. Numbing is OPTIONAL, not required...you may proceed without it. If you do want numbing applied, please complete one of the options outlined below.
Options for obtaining the letter
Option 1: Visit Youthology for a quick in-person screening and prescription. They are familiar with our process and requirements, will issue a compliant prescription (pending your medical history). Youthology is available for walk-in service M-F, 9:00am - 4:00pm. They are located about 10 minutes from our studio. This visit could be done the day-of your appointment, but please plan accordingly. Youthology.
Option 2: Contact MEDSPA2 for a telehealth appointment. They are familiar with our process and requirements, will issue a compliant prescription (pending your medical history), and are available over a telehealth meeting. The cost is $XX.00
Option 2: Contact your personal physician for the letter. Ensure the requirements listed below are included in the signed letter. Sample templates are provided below to assist in your request
The signed order must include:
Your name
Your date of birth
Approval to use topical anesthetic during a tattoo service
Approval to use topical anesthetic product containing lidocaine up to 5% and tetracaine up to 2% (recommended not to specify exact product)
Instructions: i.e. apply up to 2 grams of topical anesthetic to the procedure area, occlude for 1 minute, remove before continuing
Physician signature and license number
Sample Order and Request Templates:
The samples below are meant to assist in requesting and creating the physician order/letter.
Sample request: I am requesting a medical clearance letter to use a topical numbing agent containing up to 5% lidocaine and up to 2% tetracaine for a cosmetic tattoo (permanent makeup) service. The numbing cream is commercially available over the counter, but Michigan body art law now requires a doctor’s clearance letter before I am allowed to use it during the appointment. Is this something you are able to provide for me? I have attached a draft letter that the studio has received in the past for your convenience.
Q: Will it hurt without topical anesthetic? A: This is not a large tattoo. The pain is very manageable without a numbing agent.
Q: Do I need to bring the topical anesthetic? A: We will supply the products (ensure up to 5% lidocaine and up to 2% tetracaine included in letter).
Q: Do I need to send the letter? A: No. Just bring a digital or printed copy of the signed letter to your appointment.
Q: Do I need a letter for each visit? A: No. We will keep your letter on file for 1 year.
Q: What if I don't have a doctor? A: You can use one of the telehealth options recommended, above. This is the quickest solution.
Q: Why do I need a prescription for an over the counter product? A: Although available over the counter, the Michigan Health Department requires a prescription to use topical anesthetic during a tattoo service.
