What Is a Black Light Tattoo?

Everything you need to know about black light tattoos — the risks, the rewards, and (of course) the proper aftercare — plus a firsthand account from yours truly.

Are Glow in the Dark Tattoos Safe?

Tattoo ink, in general, is not regulated by the Food & Drug Administration. On top of that, glow-in-the-dark pigments used in any cosmetic product is strictly regulated. According to the FDA's website, it has only approved luminescent zinc sulfide is the only luminescent color approved for cosmetic use, and it has limitations for what it can be used in. There are also strict rules for use of neon pigments.

Is Black Light Tattoo Aftercare Different Than Regular Tattoos?

The healing process and aftercare advisory are exactly the same as a typical tattoo, too. Newell recommended regularly cleaning the glow in the dark tattoo with unscented soap, letting it air dry, and spreading a thin layer of Aquaphor or a vitamin A and D ointment onto it for about two weeks.

How Long Do Glow in the Dark Tattoos Last?

Like any tattoo, it's "longevity is directly connected to the amount of energy that you put into caring for it properly, like using sunscreen," Newell says. Colored tattoos generally fade over time faster than all-black ones, she adds. They won't completely disappear, though. You'll just need to get touchups when need, which is standard for most tattoos. (Source: www.allure.com)

What Types of Glow in the Dark Tattoo Styles Work Best?

You typically will find black light tattoos in modern styles, like Newell's hand-drawn aesthetic, instead of traditional ones. Newell even told me, "The bulk of the really hateful things people say to me are from other tattooers who work in more traditional styles," she adds. "I think their issues stem from the fact that my style falls outside of any known or acceptable tattoo styles. I don't believe that there are any rules in tattooing but a lot of tattooers do and my style of working goes against many of the acceptable norms and rules."

What Are Black Light Tattoos: Everything You Need to Know About Glow in the Dark Tattoos

Glow in the dark tattoos is made of a special ink with vibrant and vivid colors that are challenging to grasp in daylight, being almost invisible. Not even turning off the light in your room will make them visible. However, they are greatly visible and gorgeous-looking under the black light. Hence the name Blacklight tattoos.

How Long Do Glow in the Dark Tattoos Last?

Although it may come as a surprise, tattoos that can glow in the dark can last as long as any other type of tattoo. When getting tattooed, your tattoo artist will use a needle to inject ink into the outer layer of the skin to form a shape for your tattoo.

Can You Remove a Black Light Tattoo?

Just like with any other tattoo, you will be able to remove your tattoo with a laser or some other methodology that is used to remove the regular tattoos. The laser does a great job at breaking up the UV ink on tattoos. However, just like with other tattoos, removing tattoos with laser does carry some success risks along the way you should educate yourself on. (Source: www.savedtattoo.com)