It’s a kind of black light tattoo color that is pretty much invisible in ordinary light but lights up like a torch whenever there is a black light around. However, with this new technology and colors, you don’t ever have to worry about that. My older brother, for example, doesn’t want to get a tattoo because he’s afraid he won’t like it after a while.

There is a pretty cool revolution going on in the tattoo community, and it might actually make even more people want a tattoo. I probably wouldn’t be able to stand it if someone has the exact same tattoo as I do, so if that ever happens, I’d be sure to make some changes to the ones that I already have. All the tattoos I have are drawn by me, and if I ever used a template, I changed it completely so it wouldn’t be recognized.

I don’t know if the reason people get them is because they think they’re cool or because they’re personal to them, but for me, it’s all about being personal. What do you think? Do you have a UV tattoo or want one? Let us know.I think tattoos are getting more and more common, and every time I get back to the tattoo studio that I use to get my tattoos, they are more and more booked. Then boldly go where few have been before…in the dark, with black lights blazing. If you’re to step into the next wave of ink adornment, talk to your artist and consider the pros and cons. When talking to artists who have done black light tattoos, they report about the usual rate of irritation and scarring as in other tattoos. According to the FDA, “many pigments used in tattoo inks are industrial-grade colours suitable for printers’ ink or automobile paint,” implying disapproval but not actually condemning their use. The safety of glowing UV inks is an open question, but remember, the FDA doesn’t approve any inks for dermal injection. Skillful application, conscientious healing and aftercare are vital to longevity. UV tattoos can remain “active” for years, the same way that brightly coloured tatts can stay vibrant for a long time. They have a delicate tone and can be mistaken for watercolor work. Stencil residue can contaminate UV ink, so it’s important to work clean as well.Īfter healing, the UV sections of tattoos can appear almost pastel. Lighter colours – yellow, pink, orange and some greens – reflect better than darker hues like blue and purple. Care must be taken not to overwork the skin. UV ink can feel more like gray wash than normal color to the artist applying it. That means it’s best suited for highlighting designs, like providing the glow of a firefly or the flames of a rocket or the sexy stare of an alien. UV ink is generally thinner, and many artists would say harder to work with. No light, no bueno.Īs with any new or newish tattoo technique, it’s important that you work with an artist who is knowledgeable and experienced. That’s because they use ultraviolet-reactive ink, which needs the glow of a black light bulb or tube to show and glow. And although not everyone will actually go for it, there’s no denying that UV ink is hot.įirst things first – tattoos that incorporate UV inks do not – repeat – do not – glow in the dark like those greenish star stickers that were on your childhood bedroom ceiling (or your current bedroom ceiling if you are living a rave till the grave vibe). Petersburg, Florida reveals the secrets behind black light tattoos and their growing popularity…Ĭ’mon, admit it – the thought of your tattoos glowing like a nuclear-waste spawned superhero is pretty cool.

Rusty Smart from Black Amethyst Tattoo Gallery in St.

Black light tattoos