The electrology licensing program was established in 1987 and licenses over 120 electrologists and five instructors of electrology. Permanent Color Technicians and Tattoo Artists engage in tattooing the skin, which is marked or colored by insertion of nontoxic dyes or pigments into skin using one-use or sterile needles for figurative, cosmetic or medical purposes. The practice includes Tattoo Artists, who generally engage in decorative or figurative designs, and Permanent Color Technicians, who generally practice for cosmetic and medical purposes. There are almost 200 licensed permanent color technicians and tattoo artists doing business in over 130 licensed facilities in Oregon. The Health Licensing Office conducts routine facility inspections, and investigates law or rule violations.
Investigators have the authority to suspend or revoke licensure or issue civil penalties.