How to Apply and Remove Temporary Tattoos

There’s no denying that tattoos are beautiful. There’s something so cool about having a work of art on your skin. That said, getting a tattoo is a big commitment. Aside from the fact that you’ll need to learn to care for tattooed skin properly, they’re also, you know, permanent. If you aren’t quite ready to commit to a forever design on your body, there’s a simple solution: temporary tattoos. Yup, temporary tattoos are the perfect way for kids and adults alike to flaunt some artwork of their own. Ready to add a personal touch to your beauty look? Learn how to apply and remove temporary tattoos below.

HOW TO APPLY TEMPORARY TATTOOS

Applying a temporary tattoo is easy—in fact, you may even remember how to do it from when you were younger. But, there are a few steps that make for a flawless temporary tattoo (that no one will even realize isn’t real). Here’s what to do.

STEP #1. CLEAN YOUR SKIN

You can probably guess that the best canvas for your temporary tattoo is clean, dry skin. Use a bit of soap and water to clean the area you wish to apply your tattoo gently. Then, pat dry with a washcloth.

STEP #2. PICK YOUR TEMPORARY TATTOO

Now for the fun part! There are so many different designs and colors, so have fun picking one (or multiple) temporary tattoo(s). Can’t decide? No worries, you can always try a new one later on. After all, they’re temporary! After choosing, cut around the design with a pair of scissors. Then, peel off the clear protective layer on the front.

STEP #3. PLACE YOUR TATTOO

Apply the tattoo to your skin, placing it face down. Hold it firmly in place and avoid moving it.

STEP #4. WET AND PRESS

Use a damp washcloth or sponge to press the tattoo onto your skin. A damp paper towel can work, too, just make sure whatever you use isn’t overly wet! Hold in place and press for at least a minute. Don’t move the cloth or tattoo until the time has passed!

STEP #5. REMOVE THE BACKING

Once time is up, gently remove the damp towel. Then, carefully peel off the tattoo paper starting at one corner.

Editor’s tip: Notice your tattoo hasn’t fully transferred as you start to peel? Press the paper back into place, and grab your damp cloth. Hold it on the tattoo for another 30 to 60 seconds, then remove.

STEP #6. MOISTURIZE

Let your tattoo air dry for a few minutes. Once it’s fully dried, apply a water-based moisturizer to your tattooed skin. Now go show off your new tatt!

HOW TO REMOVE TEMPORARY TATTOOS

While temporary tattoos typically only last about three days, you may want to part ways before then. If that’s the case, follow the steps below to learn how to get temporary tattoos off.

STEP #1. APPLY AN OIL

Remember how we mentioned you should apply a water-based moisturizer post-temporary tattoo? That’s because oil-based options can actually cause your tattoo to smear. However, when it comes to removal, that’s exactly what you want. Apply a generous amount of baby oil or petroleum jelly to the temporary tattoo you wish to remove.

STEP #2. RUB AWAY

Using a washcloth, an old cotton shirt, or even your fingers, gently rub away at the tattoo. With the help of the oil you applied, the tattoo should flake away little by little. Apply more oil-based moisturizer if needed until your tattoo is fully removed.

STEP #3. CLEAN YOUR SKIN

Once your temporary tattoo is removed, wash your skin with soap and water to remove any oily residue, then pat dry. Tattoo? Where?

Next up: Now that you know how to apply and remove temporary tattoos, let’s talk about another temporary beauty option: wash out hair color! Check out our articles, How to Use Hair Makeup for a Temporary Mane Makeover and How to Use a Temporary Hair Color Spray.