Black light tattoos

Black light tattoos

Tattoo made with a special ink that is visible under an ultraviolet light black light Depending upon the ink, they can be nearly invisible in non-UV environments, thus they are a popular consideration for people seeking a subtler tattoo. They are particularly popular in the rever subculture.

Although the tattoos are sometimes considered invisible in normal light, scarring from the tattoo machine in the application process may remain, and therefore still show. A UV tattoo becomes visible under black light, when it glows in colors ranging from white to purple, depending on the ink chosen. Colored ink is also available, where the ink is visible in normal light (as with a regular tattoo) but the ink will glow vividly under UV light. However, some UV inks are not as bright under normal light as normal tattoo ink and are considered not as vibrant.

light tattoos

UV tattoo ink is not commonly known or used, as very few varieties of UV inks are approved for use in the US. It is also many times more expensive than regular tattoo inks. Some people have had reactions to ingredients in the ink, ranging from minor itching to dermatitis . Several UV inks are suspected carcinogens and allergens and at this time, no research has been conducted into the side effects of long term exposure. Although many people who have received black light tattoos have had physical effects on the skin, any ink could cause a reaction.

This can be a result of not protecting the tattoo from UV rays within 3 months of receiving the tattoo process or by using scented creames or lotions on the tattoo area. This can damage the ink, causing it to become a normal ink color in all light. In time, it may also not glow in black lighting. Clear/blue UV inks are known to yellow or turn slightly brown with sun exposure. Color/black UV inks are known to become colored in all lighting. Therefore, it might permanently appear as a regular tattoo.