Temporary tattoo: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What temporary tattoo is

A provider applies non-permanent body art such as stick-on, water-slide or airbrushed designs for events, parties, festivals and photo shoots. The design lasts from a few hours to several days, and it is removed without a permanent mark.

Signs you need it

  • You want a body art design for a single event, party or festival
  • You want to try a tattoo style before you commit to a permanent one
  • You are hosting a party and want temporary designs for your guests
  • You want a design for a photo shoot or a theme event
  • You want a provider who can apply designs quickly to a group

What the pro does

  • Asks about the design, the placement, the event length and any skin sensitivity
  • Checks your skin for any irritation, sunburn or open areas before applying
  • Cleans the area and removes any oil or lotion that would stop the design from sticking
  • Applies the design with stick-on, water-slide or airbrush methods, depending on the look
  • Presses or sets the design for the time needed so it holds
  • Gives you removal and care steps so the design comes off cleanly

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The number of designs and the size of each design
  • The application method, such as stick-on, water-slide or airbrush
  • The complexity of the design and the time it takes to apply
  • Whether the provider comes to your event or you visit a booth
  • The number of people getting designs in one session
  • Whether a custom design is created for you

What a written quote should spell out

  • The designs, the sizes and the method used
  • Whether the designs are custom or from a set menu
  • The number of people and the time needed for each one
  • Whether travel to the event is included, and where it begins
  • The cancellation and reschedule terms

Questions to ask before you hire

  • What products do you use, and are they tested for use on skin?
  • How long will the design last, and what will make it fade faster?
  • Can you do a patch test before the full design?
  • How do you remove the design, and what do you recommend for removal?
  • Do you use any metallic or glitter products, and are they labeled for body use?
  • How many designs can you do in the time we have?
  • What should I do if the design irritates my skin?

Red flags

  • Uses products that are not labeled for skin or cannot say what they contain
  • Applies designs to sunburned, broken or irritated skin with no check
  • Will not say how the design will be removed
  • Uses shared applicators or sponges with no cleaning step
  • Promises the design will last for weeks

What you can do yourself

You can use a simple stick-on design at home on clean, dry skin, after a patch test on a small area. Remove it with oil or the removal product the maker suggests, and never rub the skin hard. Hire a provider for airbrushed or custom designs, large group events, or any design on skin that is sensitive or sunburned.

Licenses and permits

A license is often not required for temporary body art, but rules differ by state and city. Some cities and states regulate body art more broadly, so check with your local health or licensing agency.

Temporary tattoo questions

How long does a temporary tattoo last?

It depends on the method and on how you care for the skin. Stick-on and water-slide designs often last a few days, and airbrushed designs can last longer. Ask the provider what to expect.

Can temporary tattoos cause a reaction?

Yes, some people react to the products used. Ask for a patch test if you have sensitive skin, and remove the design right away if you feel burning, itching or swelling.

How do I remove the design without damaging my skin?

Use the removal product or oil the provider recommends, and rub gently. Avoid harsh scrubbing or alcohol-based products on the area, because they can irritate the skin.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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