Ultraviolet
Here at In Skin we can also do UV tattoos. UV tattoos or blacklight tattoos are tattoos made with a special ink that is only visible under a blacklight. The tattoos are virtually invisible in normal light, although scarring from the tattoo gun in the application process may remain, and therefore still show. A UV tattoo becomes visible under blacklight, when it lights up in colors ranging from yellow to purple, depending on the ink chosen. Here at In Skin we only use the invisible ink as the coloured UV inks still show up in normal light. As a direct result of its rumoured invisibility, blacklight ink is often used for facial tattoos.
Arguments against UV Tattoos:
UV tattoo ink is not commonly known or used, as very few varieties of UV inks are approved for use. This is because some people have had reactions to 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 possible side effects of long term exposure. Some UV inks are known to yellow or turn slightly brown with sun exposure. Many tattoo artists simply refuse to work with UV ink, because of the potential medical complications and the difficulty involved in the application process. In the past, many experts have advised against UV tattoos.
Arguments for UV Tattoos:
Over recent years, as the formulas for UV inks are improved upon, it is more common to hear reports of success, with little or no reaction. The ingredients of these inks are common not only to blacklight tattoos, but are used frequently in other medical prostheses, such as bone replacements, contact lenses and pacemakers.
Application:
UV inks are not as bright under normal light as normal tattoo inks, and do not blend during application, as normal inks do. Therefore, for vibrant, high impact tattoos, normal ink should be used, allowed to heal, and then highlighted with UV inks. UV inking takes a little longer than using normal inks, due to UV inks being a little thinner and harder to work with, and because the tattoo must be checked under a blacklight frequently during application. Below are some examples of UV tattoos we have done.