How to Remove Temporary Tattoos (and Apply Them)

Temporary tattoos are a fun, trendy way to experiment with the art of your body, without fully committing to a lifelong tattoo. In this article, you will learn about how to apply temporary tattoos, as well as how to remove temporary tattoos too. Discover the best application techniques to achieve a flawless result, and learn effective removal methods that won’t leave a trace. Embrace your creativity and embrace the world of temporary tattoos!

 

How To Apply Temporary Tattoos

Master the art of applying temporary tattoos with these expert tips, ensuring a stunning and long-lasting design. Before we get started, make sure you learn how to test out tattoos before choosing to commit. Now, let’s delve into the process that guarantees your temporary tattoo looks nothing short of amazing.

1. Clean Your Skin

Ensure that your skin is clean and dry before you begin applying your temporary tattoos. To do this, you can use soap and water to cleanse the area of the body that you want to apply the tattoo on. Pat the area dry using a washcloth.

2. Pick Your Temporary Tattoo

This is where the fun begins! Get ready to experiment with different captivating designs and colours for your temporary tattoo. Choose one (or more!) tattoos that suit your style best, and once you’ve made your choice, use a trusty pair of scissors to cut around the desired design. Then peel off the clear protective layer from the front, revealing the magic beneath.

3. Place Your Tattoo

Apply the temporary tattoo face down on the skin and hold it in place firmly. Avoid moving it where possible. 

4. Press Tattoo on Skin

Choose a slightly damp washcloth or sponge to gently apply the temporary tattoo onto your skin. If you don’t have a sponge about your person, a moist paper towel will do the trick, but check that it is not completely soaked. Steadily hold the tattoo in place, applying gentle pressure for a minimum of one minute. For convenience, you can use a timer to monitor how long you have done this process for. Keep the cloth in place until at least a minute has passed. 

5. Remove The Backing

Time’s Up! Now you can softly lift away the damp towel. 

Here comes the exciting part – carefully begin peeling off the tattoo paper, starting from one corner.

Should you encounter a situation where the temporary tattoo hasn’t fully transferred during the peeling process, worry not! Simply press the paper back into place and reach for a trusty damp cloth. Apply gentle pressure to the tattoo for another 30 to 60 seconds, and then remove the cloth once again.

By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure a flawless and vibrant temporary tattoo that’s ready to flaunt!

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6. Moisturise 

Allow your freshly applied temporary tattoo to air dry for a few minutes, ensuring it sets perfectly. Once it’s completely dried, it’s time for some skin TLC. Reach for a water-based moisturiser and gently apply it to your tattooed skin. Be cautious to avoid oil-based products, as they may cause smearing of the temporary tattoo.

Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for – proudly showcase your brand-new, vibrant tattoo to the world! Enjoy the admiration and excitement that comes with your stunning temporary ink creation.

We have found the best temporary tattoos for men! Check them out now. 

How To Remove Temporary Tattoos

While temporary tattoos may offer a short-lived charm, there might be instances when you wish to part ways with them ahead of schedule. Fear not! Here are some simple ways in which you can learn how to remove temporary tattoos effectively. 

1. Using Oil

For successful removal, turn to an oil-based moisturiser. Carefully apply baby oil or petroleum jelly to the temporary tattoo you want to remove. Various household oils can get the job done, including olive oil, baby oil, and coconut oil. Since most temporary tattoos are waterproof, regular soapy water won’t suffice. Here’s how to remove temporary tattoos using oil-based products:

• Apply the oil to the tattoo, ensuring even coverage.
• Edges can become stubborn, so keep an eye on them. 
• Allow a few minutes for the oil to break down the tattoo and its adhesives.
• Use a cotton pad or clean towel to wipe away the remnants of the oil and tattoo components.
• Use warm water to rinse the area, and apply some moisturiser.

2. Exfoliators to remove temporary tattoos

Stubborn temporary tattoos can be tackled with exfoliators. Sugar and oil scrubs work wonders by breaking up the tattoo and encouraging the growth of new cells. For a homemade exfoliator, combine brown sugar, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Gently rub the mixture in circular motions on the tattooed area, aiding the removal process without irritating the skin. Wash the area, pat it dry, and apply moisturiser.

3. Choosing chemical removers

Certain products contain chemicals that can swiftly break down tattoos. These include rubbing alcohol, hand sanitiser, hydrogen peroxide, as well as nail polish remover, all of which are effective solutions. Products containing lactic, salicylic, and glycolic acid can also aid in skin cell turnover. Apply your chosen product on the tattoo using a soft cloth, rubbing in intervals of 20 seconds until the tattoo vanishes.

4. Rub alcohol

A household staple with versatile benefits, rubbing alcohol proves its worth beyond simply removing temporary tattoos. Safe and effective, it can be used for children as well. However, exercise caution and avoid application on areas with cuts or wounds to prevent discomfort. Follow the same procedure as with chemical removers for the best results. 

5. Hair Spray

Hair spray can also aid in the removal of temporary tattoos, albeit with a unique twist. Unlike chemical removers or rubbing alcohol, allow the hair spray to sit on the tattooed area for a while. Once it dries out, take a soft towel and gently rub the tattoo until it peels off effortlessly. Afterward, cleanse the area and apply a soothing moisturiser for a silky-smooth finish.

Furthermore, explore other creative options for tattoo removal. Mouthwash, cold cream, and sticky scotch tape can also work wonders in bidding adieu to temporary ink. 

But if any of these options aren’t right for you, then don’t worry, because we also offer a range of Mehron tattoo covers that can work many wonders.

Possible Complications When Removing a Temporary Tattoo

When learning how to remove temporary tattoos, you may experience slight inflammation or irritation on the skin. Prolonged use of chemical removers can also lead to skin sensitivities. If such a reaction occurs, worry not, as there are ways to ease the discomfort.

Should your skin become red and inflamed, a cool compress applied to the affected area can work wonders in minimising inflammation. Additionally, consider using skin-cooling products like cucumber gel, Aloe Vera gel, or coconut oil to soothe the irritated skin.

In most cases, the irritation should subside within a few hours. However, if the discomfort persists and the skin condition worsens, seek medical advice from your GPfor appropriate treatment and care.

But if you would prefer alternative methods on how to remove temporary tattoos, then check on some of these features below, using household items. 

Household Tape

Yes, you read that correctly – household tape can work wonders in removing temporary tattoos. However, it’s not a swift one-step process like waxing hair. Instead, this method involves gently peeling off small bits of the tattoo with each strip of tape.

This technique proves particularly effective for newer or larger temporary tattoos. You can use common household Scotch tape or opt for stronger options like packing tape or medical tape. Nonetheless, ensure the tape is not overly sticky to prevent any potential skin damage during the removal process.

Here’s how it works: 

1. Cut a piece of tape large enough to cover the tattoo, then press it firmly onto the skin, ensuring complete adhesion. 
2. Afterward, peel off the tape gently. 
3. Depending on the tattoo’s size and design, you might need to repeat this process a few times to remove it entirely. 
4. Stay persistent, and the design will gradually fade away, leaving your skin clean and fresh!

Cold Cream

Unlike conventional oil-based products, cold cream brings together the properties of both oil and water, resulting in a unique combination. Its application is as effortless as other methods, and you might even find it more convenient, as it won’t trickle all over your skin.

To use cold cream, steadily apply it over the temporary tattoo, ensuring complete coverage (double-check!). Allow the cream to sit on the tattoo for at least an hour. Don’t be concerned if it gets absorbed by your skin – that’s completely normal! Once the hour has passed, gently wipe away the excess cream using a wet washcloth or rinse off the former temporary tattoo under running water.

Ways to Apply and Remove Temporary Tattoos

Overall, this is everything that you need to know about how to remove temporary tattoos and applying them, worry free. After all, this can be quite a fun activity so long as you do not get irritated if all the sticky residue does not completely rub off of your skin. Sometimes time is a great healer too. 

For more fascinating makeup guides, why not try our tips on how to apply vampire makeup and teeth! 

FAQs

Can I apply a temporary tattoo on any part of my body?

Temporary tattoos can be applied to various parts of the body, such as arms, legs, back, or even the face, as long as the skin is clean, dry, and free from cuts or irritations.

How long do temporary tattoos typically last?

Temporary tattoos usually last for a few days, ranging from 2 to 5 days, depending on factors such as skin type, application technique, and exposure to water and friction.

Can I swim or shower with a temporary tattoo?

While temporary tattoos are generally water-resistant, excessive exposure to water or friction may cause them to fade or come off. It's best to avoid prolonged water activities or cover the tattoo with a waterproof bandage if necessary.

Will a temporary tattoo leave any residue on the skin?

Temporary tattoos are designed to be easily removable, and they typically don't leave a significant residue. However, in some cases, a faint residue may remain, which can be easily washed off with soap and water.

Can I remove a temporary tattoo immediately after application if I don't like it?

Yes, you can remove a temporary tattoo immediately after application by gently rubbing it with a damp cloth or sponge. However, once the tattoo dries and sets, it becomes more difficult to remove completely.

Sources

CafeMom. (2023). 11 Ways to Test Out Your Dream Tattoo Before Committing. [online] Available at: https://cafemom.com/lifestyle/197837-11_ways_to_test_out/162623-ink_hunter [accessed 26/07/23] 

FashionBeans. (n.d.). The Best Temporary Tattoos for Men: The Ultimate Guide. [online] Available at: https://www.fashionbeans.com/article/best-temporary-tattoos/ [accessed 26/07/23]