Health Board Gives Green Light to First Body Art Business

Olivia Kharin received approval from the Bedford Board of Health to expand New Age Laser and Aesthetics to include body art. Image https://www.mynewagelaser.com/

The Board of Health on Monday approved permits for the operation of Bedford’s first body-art establishment.

New Age Laser and Aesthetics will be expanding into suite 244 at 200 The Great Road. The business is currently in a smaller space next door, specializing in laser hair removal and injectables.

Olivia Kharin of Concord, the proprietor, said she plans to have flexible hours because of her young children at home. Her husband Leo, a dentist, is also involved in some procedures and serves as medical director. They presented to the Board of Health at its monthly meeting on Monday after submitting written applications.

The board approved permits for both the practitioner and the establishment. State regulations for conducting cosmetic tattooing and the implantation of permanent pigment require applicants to have training and apprentice hours, and certification in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Businesses must present after-care instructions, processes for reporting injuries or complications, and emergency plans.

Kharin presented images of her art to the Board of Health in having applications approved for the expansion of her business at 200 Great Rd in Bedford. Image @BedfordTv

Kharin, who showed board members photos of her work, said she doesn’t have clients under the age of 18. “This is not an easy profession, but working with my hands comes naturally for me,” she said.

Asked why she decided to locate in Bedford, Kharin said one reason is she already has several clients from Hanscom Air Force Base. Her husband, a captain in the U.S. Army Reserve, said at one time he was a dental associate in the office of Dr. Oscar DePriest on The Great Road.

Olivia Kharin, who has a degree in and has worked as a dental hygienist, smiled as she said, “People don’t usually like to come to the dentist. Now I feel so much joy that people want to come and see me. And to some people, it makes such a big difference to their confidence.”

Kharin said she was inspired by her sister to expand the business to body art. “The industry is really big in eastern Europe,” she said. “In this country the field is growing.” As Bedford’s first such enterprise, she said, “I want to set an example and help build the profession.”

“It might be something small. But for some people it could be life-changing,” Karin continued. “I feel such a joy when people appreciate what I do.” She said she eventually hopes to teach the skills.