How long does a tattoo last?

All tattoos are temporary, lasting anywhere from hours to years. Man has yet to invent technology that allows a "permanent" tattoo to retain its original colours and form over time without changing.

The temporary tattoos, of that name, include any tattoo inks that are applied to the outer layer of the skin and which has not become intimately associated with the skin, as is the case with permanent tattoos.

One type of temporary tattoo is the "temporary tattoo transfer" which is made out of ink and glue. The tattoo image is printed onto a small paper card. The card is then placed on the skin facing downward. Next, you apply water to the back of the card and after approximately 30 seconds the card separates from the skin leaving only the tattoo behind on the skin. These last approximately 3-7 days or until removed.

Another type of temporary tattoo is "temporary airbrush tattoos", also known as "TATs". To create a TAT you simply place a stencil on the skin and apply tattoo ink with an airbrush. The airbrush gun applies ink to the skin using pressurised air. Applying baby powder to the TAT will extend the life of the TAT. These can last at least a week, depending on the wear it receives.

Another type of temporary tattoo is "henna temporary tattoos". These are made from the leaves of a henna plant, where the active dye bonds well with protein and therefore is used to dye skin, fingernails, hair and other protein based materials. Henna temporary tattoos last anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks depending on your body temperature, where it’s applied and how often the henna area is washed.

There is practically any design you want available out there, and if you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, then there is always Do It Yourself (DIY) Tattoo Paper or Tattoo Decal Paper. It’s really easy to use and all you need is a computer, a printer and some DIY tattoo paper and you’re set. This is also a lot of fun for kids to create and design their own tattoos.

Tattoos are great for a range of purposes: Self-expression, art, advertising, religion, marriage and more.

To remove a temporary tattoo simply apply baby oil to the skin and wipe it off. Most tattoos are quite safe, but it’s best to check the ingredients to make sure you’re not allergic to any of the inks or ingredients being used. It is also possible to remove a "permanent" tattoo using laser removal.

Even though permanent tattoos don’t retain their original colour or form for life, some tattoos have been found on the mummified remains of their owners thousands of years after their death. Man has obviously had a fascination with tattoos, body art and adornments throughout history, with tattooing being one of the oldest art forms on the planet.