How To Apply Temporary Tattoos

Congrats on your cool new temporary tattoos! This guide walks you through exactly how to apply temporary tattoos the right way — so they go on smoothly, look professionally done, and last as long as possible.

What You'll Need

• A cloth, towel, or sponge
• A little bit of water
• Scissors (depending on the design)

How to Apply a Temporary Tattoo: Step-by-Step

Optional: Cut Out Your Design

If your tattoo is part of a sheet with multiple designs, use scissors to cut out the one you want. If it's a single design, skip this step.

Step 1 — Choose Your Spot & Prep Your Skin

Decide where you want to place the tattoo. We take pride in the lifespan of our tattoos — they can last up to 7 days, so choose wisely! Once you've picked your spot, peel off the clear plastic cover. For best adhesion, wipe the area with rubbing alcohol first and let it dry completely.

Step 2 — Place the Tattoo Face-Down on Your Skin

Press the tattoo face-down onto clean, dry skin and apply even pressure across the entire design. Don't stress if the placement isn't perfect on the first try — even if the tattoo loses some stickiness, the image will still transfer.

Step 3 — Wet the Paper

Dampen your cloth, towel, or sponge and press it firmly over the tattoo paper, making sure to cover the entire design. Saturate the paper thoroughly — the water is what releases the tattoo from its backing. Hold for 30–60 seconds to ensure a full transfer.

Step 4 — Peel & Reveal

Carefully peel away the paper to reveal your new body art. Let the tattoo air-dry completely before touching or covering it.

Step 5 — Our Secret Finishing Touch

Before you show off your new ink, dab away any excess water and apply a tiny amount of lotion over the tattoo. This adds vibrancy and helps extend its lifespan. That's it — you're done!

Your tattoo will stay on for 5–7 days with normal wear, or a couple of days if you're out there getting muddy and adventurous.

Pro Tips to Make Your Tattoo Look More Natural

• Reduce shine: Lightly dust baby powder or translucent setting powder over the tattoo to minimize the glossy finish and create a more realistic, matte look.
• Extend the life: Avoid scrubbing the area and keep it dry for the first few hours after application.
• Large tattoos: Have a friend help you apply them to ensure even pressure and full saturation across the entire design.
• Sensitive skin: Do a patch test first and use gentle pressure when applying. Avoid areas with existing irritation or broken skin.

Once you've nailed the application, you're ready to flaunt it at your next party, festival, or wherever life takes you. Browse our full collection or design your own custom tattoo.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What materials do I need to apply a temporary tattoo?

You'll need the temporary tattoo itself, a damp cloth or sponge, and scissors if you need to trim the design. Rubbing alcohol for skin prep is optional but recommended.

How do I prepare my skin before applying?

Make sure the area is clean, dry, and free of oils or lotions. Shaving the area beforehand can also help the tattoo adhere better and last longer.

How long should I hold the damp cloth on the tattoo?

Hold it for 30–60 seconds, making sure the entire paper is fully saturated with water for a clean transfer.

What if my tattoo doesn't transfer properly?

Re-wet the cloth and press down firmly again. Make sure both the paper and your skin are fully saturated. A little extra patience goes a long way.

How can I make my temporary tattoo last longer?

Avoid scrubbing the tattooed area, keep it dry for the first few hours, and apply a thin layer of clear nail polish or petroleum jelly over it to protect it from friction and moisture.

Can I apply a temporary tattoo anywhere on my body?

Yes! However, areas with less friction and minimal hair — like the forearm, shoulder, or ankle — tend to hold tattoos better and longer.

Any tips for applying a large temporary tattoo?

Enlist a friend to help. Follow the same steps, but take extra care to ensure even pressure and full saturation across the entire design.

What about applying to sensitive skin?

Always do a patch test first. Use gentle pressure when applying the damp cloth and avoid areas with existing irritation or broken skin.