Free shipping on orders over $40

How to Apply Your Temporary Tattoo

Applying your InkInIreland tattoo takes less than a minute. Follow these steps for the best results. Every order includes a printed application card with these instructions, so you will have them handy when you need them.

What You Need

  • Your tattoo sheet
  • A damp cloth or sponge (cloth works best)
  • Scissors (if cutting individual designs from a multi-sheet)
  • Clean, dry skin (no lotion, oil, or sunscreen on the area)

Step-by-Step Application

Step 1: Prepare the Skin

Wash the area with soap and water to remove any oils, lotions, or dead skin. Dry completely. Even a thin layer of body oil can prevent the adhesive from bonding. If you have just applied lotion, wait 30 minutes or wipe the area with rubbing alcohol.

Step 2: Cut Out the Design

If using a sheet with multiple designs, cut out the one you want, leaving a small border around the edges. For full sheets, skip this step.

Step 3: Peel the Protective Film

Each tattoo has a clear protective film covering the printed side. Peel this film off carefully. The printed design should now be exposed.

Step 4: Position the Tattoo

Place the tattoo face down on your skin. Position it carefully, because once the adhesive touches the skin, it is difficult to reposition. For large sheets, have a second person help you align it.

Step 5: Apply Water

Press a damp cloth or sponge firmly against the paper backing. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. The water soaks through the paper and activates the adhesive. For large sheets (over 20 cm), hold for 35 to 40 seconds and make sure the entire surface is dampened.

Step 6: Peel Away the Paper

Slowly and gently peel the paper backing away from one edge. If the tattoo has not fully transferred, press the paper back down, apply more water for 10 seconds, and try again. Do not rush this step.

Step 7: Let It Set

Allow the tattoo to dry for 10 minutes before touching, stretching, or wearing tight clothing over it. The adhesive continues to bond during this time. For best results, avoid swimming or showering for the first 2 hours.

Tips for Best Results

  • Choose the right placement: Flat, smooth areas (forearm, shoulder, calf, back) hold tattoos longest. Avoid joints, hairy areas, and skin that stretches frequently.
  • Avoid oils: Sunscreen, moisturizer, and body oil break down the adhesive. Apply them around the tattoo, not on it.
  • Pat, do not rub: After showering, pat the tattoo dry with a towel. Rubbing causes premature fading.
  • Set with powder: For extended wear, dust a thin layer of translucent setting powder over the tattoo after it has set. This creates a matte finish and helps lock the adhesive.
  • Sleep in loose clothing: Tight fabric rubbing against the tattoo overnight causes friction that shortens wear time.

Applying Large Sheets

Full-back and chest pieces (over 25 cm) are easier with a second person. Have the subject lie down or stand still while the helper positions the sheet. Start from the center and smooth outward to avoid air bubbles. Apply water in sections, working from the center to the edges, holding each section for 30 seconds. Peel slowly from one corner.

Applying Metallic Foil Tattoos

Metallic foil tattoos (gold, silver, rose gold) need slightly longer application times. Hold the damp cloth for 30 to 35 seconds instead of 20. Peel very slowly, as the foil can tear if rushed. Avoid lotions on foil tattoos, as oils break down the metallic layer faster than standard ink.

How to Remove Your Tattoo

Oil Method (Recommended)

Saturate the tattoo with baby oil, coconut oil, or olive oil. Wait 60 seconds for the oil to break down the adhesive. Gently rub with a cotton pad or tissue until the tattoo lifts off. Wash the area with soap and water. This method is gentle and will not irritate the skin.

Alcohol Method (Fast)

Apply isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) with a cotton pad. The tattoo dissolves in seconds. Wipe clean. This is the fastest method but may dry the skin, so apply moisturizer afterward.

Tape Lift Method (Small Tattoos)

For tiny tattoos under 2 cm, press a piece of clear adhesive tape firmly over the tattoo and peel it away. The tattoo lifts off with the tape. Repeat if needed. This method is quick but works only for small designs.

Troubleshooting

The tattoo did not transfer fully

This usually means the paper was not damp enough or was not held long enough. Place the paper back down, apply more water, hold for 30 seconds, and peel again. Make sure the entire design area was covered with the damp cloth.

The tattoo is peeling at the edges

Edge peeling happens when the skin was not clean enough or the area is rubbing against clothing. Clean the area, reapply the loose edge with a small amount of water, and let it set. Avoid tight clothing over the area.

The tattoo faded too quickly

Quick fading is caused by oils, friction, or exfoliating products. Avoid applying lotion or sunscreen directly on the tattoo. Pat dry after washing. If the tattoo is in a high-friction area (inner wrist, waistband), it will naturally fade faster than on flat areas.

Need Help?

If you have trouble applying or removing your tattoo, check our FAQ or contact us. We are happy to help and respond within 24 hours.