The Complete Guide to Temporary Tattoos

Temporary tattoos offer a fun way to rock edgy styles with zero commitment. Far from the old-school varieties, today’s temporary tats span diverse designs from cute to badass. With the right application and care, they can last days to weeks before fading. This comprehensive guide covers different types, tips for application and longevity, customized options, safety considerations, removal techniques, and creative ideas to unleash your inner rebel with these non-permanent body art styles.

Overview of Temporary Tattoos

Temporary tattoos apply like stickers and resemble permanent tattoo art without the commitment. Types include:

• Decal tattoos – Thin paper sheets applied with water. Last around 5 days.
• Metallic tattoos – Real gold/silver leaf covered with sealer. Last up to 3 weeks.
• Henna tattoos – Plant-based dyes stain skin. Fade over weeks.
• Glitter tattoos – Plastic stencil rubbed with cosmetic glitter. Last around 4 days.
• Inkbox tattoos – Semipermanent ink stains skin for around 2 weeks. Fades slowly.
• Sleeves/leggings – Slip-on tattoo coverings for arms or legs.

Temporary tattoos allow you to try new placements and designs risk-free and are easily removed.

Benefits of Temporary Tattoos

Why get non-permanent ink? Advantages include:

• Test new designs without commitment
• Change styles whenever you want
• Cover up permanent tattoos for situations
• Coordinate with events and outfits
• Fun for holidays, parties, concerts
• Let kids experiment safely
• Avoid needle anxiety and pain
• Low cost compared to real tattoos
• Easily edit or remove when desired

Now let’s look at how to apply the various temporary tattoo types successfully.

How to Apply Temporary Tattoos

Get the most longevity and vibrancy by following proper application techniques:

Decal Tattoos

1. Cut desired image from sheet.
2. Immerse in warm water 15-30 seconds until slideable.
3. Slide onto skin and smooth firmly with cloth.
4. Allow to fully dry 1 hour before exposing to moisture.

Metallic Tattoos

1. Remove clear top layer and discard.
2. Position metallic layer on skin and apply water-soaked cloth on top.
3. Wait 30 seconds and slide off paper.
4. Spread sealer gel evenly. Allow to dry fully.

Henna Tattoos

1. Clean and dry skin thoroughly.
2. Apply stencil firmly onto skin.
3. Fill stencil outline completely with henna paste.
4. Allow paste to dry and flake off naturally.

Glitter Tattoos

1. Position stencil and secure edges with tape.
2. Pour cosmetic glitter over the stencil area.
3. Gently brush off excess glitter when fully covered.
4. Remove stencil carefully to reveal the sparkling design.

Inkbox Tattoos

1. Clean and exfoliate area to reduce fading.
2. Remove top film from box tattoos.
3. Apply firmly to skin and let dry 1 hour.
4. Once set, peel off application layer.

Proper application helps temporary tattoos last longer and look vibrant. Now let’s look at temporary tattoo placement ideas.

Temporary Tattoo Placement Ideas

Get creative with where you apply your faux ink. Hot placement ideas include:

• Wrist – Classic spot for small symbols and quotes.
• Forearm – Provides ample space for larger or multiple designs.
• Fingers – Individual designs on each finger make a statement.
• Neck – Edgy aesthetics on the neckline.
• Chest – Over heart for intimate ink.
• Back – Opt for wings, dragon, or mandala spanning the shoulder blades.
• Leg – Floral vines winding up calves or thighs look chic.
• Ankle – Cute little motifs, initials, or charms.
• Foot – Spice up bare feet with toe tats.
• Waist – Adorn hips with bows, hearts, or patterns.

Rock them anywhere – even hidden spots for your eyes only! Having the freedom to place impulsively is part of the appeal.

Tips for Making Temporary Tattoos Last

Follow these tips to maximize the longevity of your fake tattoos:

• Always apply to clean, dry skin – cleanse and exfoliate area first.
• Shave hair if needed so the tattoo sticks better.
• Apply firm even pressure when applying for full contact with skin.
• Once applied, avoid rubbing the area excessively.
• Don’t submerge in water for 24-48 hours to allow drying/setting after applying.
• When washing hands/bathing, try to avoid direct water contact as much as possible.
• Apply tattoo sealing spray after application and drying time to lock it in.
• For decals, finish with makeup spray for extra lasting power.
• Keep the tattoo away from oils, lotions, friction that may loosen adhesive.
• When peeling or fading begins, touch up with makeup to refresh look.

With proper care, many temporary tattoos last over a week before needing reapplied.+

Custom Temporary Tattoo Options

Beyond ready-made options, you can create fully customized temporary tattoos:

Custom decals – Upload any high resolution image to have printed as a temporary tattoo decal sheet.

Custom stencils – Send your art to have laser cut onto a plastic tattoo stencil for glitter or ink application.

Airbrush tattoos – Tattoo artists can airbrush any design freehand with cosmetic-grade inks. Lasts around 5 days.

Body markers – Use non-toxic markers to draw designs directly on skin. Lasts 1-3 days.

Eyeliner/lipliner – Outline your tat with makeup for quick application and removal.

Photo tattoos – Use phone apps to make fake tattoos from your own photos. Print as temporary decals.

Get creative making your own signature tattoos for total personalization!

Temporary Tattoo Safety Tips

While lower risk than real tattoos, some precautions apply when using temporary tats:

• Avoid tattoos with harsh chemicals like colloidal silver, glitter, or black henna.
• Spot test skin for 24 hours before any full applications.
• Read ingredients carefully and avoid if allergic.
• Never apply to irritated, damaged, or broken skin.
• Keep away from eyes, lips, and inside of mouth.
• Supervise children under 6 closely and avoid face application.
• Follow instructions and don’t overapply topicals.
• Remove immediately if any burning, stinging, or discomfort.
• Consult doctor before using if pregnant or have medical conditions.

Simple precautions let you safely indulge your temporary body art flair. Now let’s look at easy removal processes when you are ready to switch it up.

How to Remove and Change Temporary Tattoos

When you want to erase or change up your temporary tats, use these easy, low-risk removal methods:

Baby oil – Generously apply to tattoo and let sit before gently rubbing off with washcloth.

Makeup remover wipe – Look for oil-free remover wipes to break down tattoo ink and adhesive.

Water/soap – Hot water and scrubbing with gentle soap can remove many varieties after application.

Exfoliating scrub – Gently buff with a scrub containing granular ingredients like salt or sugar.

Adhesive remover – Sticker removing oils work well to dissolve glue without irritating skin.

Time – Most varieties naturally wear off within 1-2 weeks maximum.

There are no worries about laser removal or complications when erasing temporary tats – just wash them away!

Now that you’re ready to give temporary ink a try, here are some top recommended picks and suppliers.

Recommended Temporary Tattoo Brands

For Decals

• Momentary Ink – Hundreds of trendy, realistic designs. Salon quality.
• Tattapictions – Large assortment of styles for adults and kids.
• Tattoo Fun – Great variety pack for all occasions.

For Metallics

• Bling Body Art – Unique gold, rose gold, and silver metallics.
• iHeartRaves – Vibrant holographic and glitter metallic tattoos.
• Temporary Insanity – Bold, shiny club-worthy metallics.

For Inkbox

• Inkbox – Most realistic; customized or curated designs.
• Momentary Ink Inkbox – Salon quality ink tattoos. Fade more slowly.
• Celeb Tattoos Inkbox – Exact replicas of celebrity tattoo designs.

For Henna

• MDreams – Natural, skin-safe henna paste kits.
• The Henna Guys – Extensive henna design catalog.
• Lumina Noir – Black henna alternative pigments.

Mix and match varieties for versatile temporary ink flair!

Temporary Tattoo Inspiration

Here are some creative temporary tattoo ideas and themes to spark your inspiration:

Occasions

• Bachelorette parties
• Concerts
• Holidays: Halloween, Easter, Fourth of July
• Vacations: beach, mountains, countries

Themes

• Mermaids
• Feathers
• Flowers – roses, lilies, cherry blossoms
• Angels or wings
• Tribal or mandala patterns
• Nature – sun, moon, trees, animals
• Words, phrases, lyrics, poems, quotes

Types

• Full arm sleeves
• Chokers or neck tattoos
• Back pieces – wings, flowers, phoenix
• Fingers – rings, symbols
• Small ankles – bows, hearts, arrows
• Full leg sleeve from upper thigh down

With so many options, you can rock unique statement temporary tattoos for any occasion!

Temporary Tattoo FAQs

Q: Where can I buy temporary tattoos?

A: Craft stores, online retailers like Etsy, temporary tattoo specialty shops, and directly from tattoo artists.

Q: How long do temporary tattoos really last?

A: Most last 3-10 days on average with proper application and care before fading. Metallic and ink varieties last the longest.

Q: Does it hurt to apply temporary tattoos?

A: No, temporary tattoos don’t involve needles so are completely painless to apply. At most, you may feel a slight tingle from the adhesive.

Q: Are temporary tattoos waterproof?

A: Most are highly water resistant but may fade faster if submerged often. Avoid soaking for the first day after application.

Q: Is there a temporary tattoo that lasts 1-2 months?

A: Yes, varieties like Inkbox when properly applied, cared for, and maintained can last 4-8 weeks before fading gradually.

Q: Can temporary tattoos be customized?

A: Yes, many companies offer custom printing or stencils made from your own designs to create personalized temporary tattoos.

Q: Are temporary tattoos safe for kids?

A: Yes, when following application instructions carefully. Avoid face tattoos to be extra cautious. Supervise young children using them.

Q: How do you make temporary tattoos at home?

A: You can hand draw designs with washable markers, pens, or makeup. Or print custom decals using an inkjet printer and temporary tattoo paper.

Q: Can I apply temporary tattoos over real tattoos?

A: Yes, they work great for covering up permanent tattoos like on the neck, hands or wrists for job interviews or formal occasions.

Unleash your creativity and fun side with safe, non-permanent statement tattoos in all styles!