How to Make Your Temporary Tattoos and Semi-Permanent Tattoo Stickers Last Longer
steezyinkTemporary tattoos are an excellent way of being artistic, enabling you to try out different looks without a lifelong commitment. From the classic water-transfer designs that you got as a child to newer, high-tech semi-permanent tattoo stickers that actually stain your skin, you have a lot of creative freedom.
However, there's unavoidable downside that they often fade much faster than you want. Most temporary tattoos last anywhere from 3 to 7 days, while higher-quality semi-permanent tattoo stickers can stay on your skin for up to two weeks with proper care. Here are some useful tips and smart tricks for you learn about how to make temporary tattoos last longer!
Why Temporary Tattoos Fade and How to Fight It
It's not all your fault for the quick fading temporary tattoo. Your skin and your daily activities are constantly working against it. Knowing the main culprits is the first step in allowing your body art to last.
Your Skin Naturally Sheds
The number one reason any temporary tattoo or semi-permanent tattoo stickers fades is simply because your skin doesn't stay the same. Your body is always creating new skin cells deep down and pushing off the old, dead ones from the surface. A temporary tattoo sits right on top of that outer layer. As your skin naturally sheds, it takes the tattoo's ink and adhesive right along with it.
Friction from Clothes and Rubbing
Anything that constantly rubs against your temporary tattoos/semi-permanent tattoo stickers will slowly wear the design down and cause it to peel. The most common culprits are tight sleeves, backpack or purse straps, watch bands, and even tossing and turning against your bedsheets at night. This constant friction physically scrapes the tattoo off your skin, especially at the edges.
Water, Sweat, and Heat
Water is a major enemy of temporary tattoos/semi-permanent tattoo stickers. Long, hot showers, soaking in a hot tub, or swimming can quickly dissolve the adhesive. The chlorine in pools and salt in the ocean are especially harsh and will break down the design fast. Sweat works in a similar way, using its salt to weaken the glue. When you add heat from a workout or a hot day, the adhesive can get soft, making it even easier for the tattoo to slide or peel off.
Oils, Lotions, and Sunscreen
Oil is the ultimate tattoo remover—it's the main ingredient in products designed to take them off. The adhesive in most temporary tattoos is made to dissolve when it comes into contact with oil. This includes oily body lotions, many types of sunscreen, and even your skin's own natural oils (sebum). Applying these products directly over your tattoo will break it down quickly.
Soaps and Skin Products
Scrubbing your tattoo with a soapy washcloth or a loofah is one of the fastest ways to destroy it. Beyond physical scrubbing, certain chemicals are also a problem. Many skincare products, especially exfoliating scrubs or acne treatments containing acids, are designed to speed up skin shedding.
Pre-Application Prep for a Longer-Lasting Temporary Tattoo
The secret to making your temporary tattoo and semi-permanent tattoo stickers last begins with the prep work you do on your skin beforehand.
Clean and Exfoliate the Skin
First things first: the area needs to be completely clean. Wash it thoroughly with soap and water to remove any dirt, makeup, or natural oils. Next, and this is a crucial step, you should gently exfoliate the spot. Your skin is constantly shedding dead cells from its top layer. If you stick a tattoo on that layer, it will flake right off along with the skin. By lightly scrubbing the area with a washcloth or loofah a day before, you remove those dead cells. This gives your tattoo a fresh, stable surface to adhere to. Just be sure to avoid any oily scrubs, as oil is a tattoo's worst enemy. Finally, pat the skin completely dry.
Shave the Area for a Smooth Fit
If the spot you chose has any hair on it, even just fine peach fuzz, it's a good idea to shave it. Hair prevents the tattoo from making full, direct contact with your skin, creating a weak bond. As the hair grows back over the next couple of days, it will literally push the tattoo up and away from your skin, causing it to crack and peel prematurely. A smooth, hair-free surface is best.
Skip the Lotions and Oils
Right before you apply your tattoo, make sure the skin is free of any products. Do not put on any lotions, sunscreens, or body oils. These create a slippery barrier that will stop the tattoo from sticking. Worse, oil-based products will start to dissolve the tattoo's adhesive on contact. For a final check, you can wipe the area with a bit of rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball to remove any last traces of oil and ensure the skin is perfectly prepped.
Choose Your Placement Wisely
Look for areas that are flat, smooth, and don't move or stretch much. Places with minimal friction from clothing are ideal. Great choices include the forearm, shoulder blade, calf, or upper arm. These spots provide a stable canvas where your tattoo can rest undisturbed.
Try to stay away from spots that bend, sweat, or rub against things all day. This includes your hands and feet (too much washing and movement), joints like elbows and knees (constant bending will crack the design), and your neck or waistline (friction from collars and clothing). Both traditional temporary tattoos and semi permanent tattoos will fade much faster in these high-action areas.
Application Best Practices: How to Apply Temporary Tattoos and Semi-Permanent Tattoo Stickers
A careful application is key for crisp lines and a long-lasting look. Follow these steps for the best results.
How to Apply Temporary Tattoos
- Cut out the design as close to the edge as possible.
- Remove the clear top sheet.
- Place the tattoo face-down on your skin.
- Press a damp cloth or sponge firmly over the back, holding for 30-60 seconds.
- Gently peel off the paper backing.
- Let the tattoo dry for a few minutes.
How to Apply Semi-Permanent Tattoo Stickers
- Clean and dry the area thoroughly.
- Peel off the protective film and place the sticker ink-side down.
- Press firmly and smooth out any bubbles.
- Hold a damp cloth over the sticker for 30-60 seconds.
- Remove the backing and let the tattoo develop. The color may darken over the next 24-48 hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't rush the process. Give the tattoo enough time to transfer.
- Don't move the tattoo during application, or you'll get smudges.
- Don't touch the tattoo until it's fully dry.
Post-Application Care to Protect Your Temporary Tattoos
Once your temporary tattoo/semi-permanent tattoo sticker is on, a few smart habits will protect your custom temporary tattoos from peeling and fading, keeping them looking sharp.
Be Gentle with Your Tattoo
Treat your new tattoo like a delicate piece of art because, for a while, it is. After a shower or if the area gets wet, gently pat it dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing it. Rubbing will lift the edges and can smudge or tear the design. If the tattoo starts to itch as it settles, resist the urge to scratch it. Lightly tapping or patting the area is a much safer way to get some relief without causing damage.
Go Easy on the Water
Water is one of the fastest ways to ruin a temporary tattoo or semi-permanent tattoo stickers. Try to keep your showers quick and use lukewarm water, as hot water can dissolve the adhesive holding the tattoo to your skin. You should definitely stay away from long soaks in the bathtub or a hot tub. Swimming pools are also tough on temporary tattoos because the chlorine is especially damaging. If you do go for a swim, try to rinse the tattoo with fresh water right afterward.
Avoid Rubbing from Clothes and Sheets
Make an effort to wear loose, soft clothing over the tattooed area. Tight sleeves, rough denim, waistbands, or even backpack straps can rub the design right off. Also, think about where the tattoo is when you sleep. If it's on your shoulder, for example, try sleeping on your other side to keep it from rubbing against the sheets all night.
Use the Right Lotions and Soaps
The most important rule is to keep all oil-based products away from your tattoo. This includes most lotions, creams, and many sunscreens, as they are designed to break down the tattoo's adhesive. When you wash, use a mild, simple soap and don't scrub the tattoo directly. If the skin around it gets dry, you can use a light, water-based moisturizer, but try not to slather it right over the design itself.
Seal Your Tattoo for Extra Staying Power
After applying your temporary tattoo/semi-permanent tattoo sticker and it is completely dry, you can apply a protective coating to help safeguard it against the elements.
Use Powder to Reduce Shine and Absorb Oil
A light dusting of baby powder or translucent makeup setting powder is a simple and effective trick. These powders instantly soak up any natural skin oils or sweat that might break down the tattoo's adhesive. As a bonus, they get rid of that artificial, glossy shine that many temporary tattoos have, giving your design a more realistic, matte finish. You can reapply powder anytime the tattoo starts to look shiny.
Lock It in with a Setting Spray
For a stronger shield, a light mist of makeup setting spray can work wonders. These sprays are designed to lock makeup in place, and they do the same for temporary tattoos/semi-permanent tattoo stickers. They form a thin, flexible film over the design that helps protect it from moisture and light friction. Just hold the can a few inches away, give it a quick spray, and let it dry completely before letting anything touch it.
Shield It with Petroleum Jelly
A very thin layer of petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) can act as a simple yet effective sealant. It creates a protective barrier that shields the tattoo from moisture and rubbing. Petroleum jelly also works by sealing moisture into your skin. You might need to put it on again, especially before activities that involve water exposure.
Use Stronger Sealants with Caution
For maximum protection, some people turn to liquid bandages or even a thin coat of clear nail polish. These create a tough, waterproof seal over the tattoo. While effective, use these with care. They are for temporary tattoos only and should never be used on real tattoos or broken skin. They can also feel tight or stiff, and nail polish can sometimes flake off, taking pieces of the tattoo with it. This is a more extreme trick, best saved for when you absolutely need a design to last.
Rock Your Temporary Tattoos and Semi-permanent Stickers for Longer!
Making your temporary tattoo last is all about a little extra care. It comes down to three simple things: starting with clean, prepped skin, applying it carefully, and protecting it from oils and friction afterward. By following these steps, you can keep your design vibrant and sharp for days!