How can I temporarily cover my tattoo?

Author: Theresa Jacobi  |  Last update: Friday, January 23, 2026

Arguably, the best makeup to cover tattoos is tattoo makeup—that is, makeup specifically formulated for tattoo coverage. That can be hard to find, though (not to mention pricey). If you don't have any tattoo makeup on hand, a color corrector, foundation, and concealer will get the job done, too.

What can I use to cover my tattoo?

  • Butter or Balm: Natural tattoo balms made from ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, or coconut oil can provide moisture and protection without plastic.
  • Non-stick Gauze: Use sterile, non-stick gauze pads to cover your tattoo.
  • Cotton Cloth: A clean, soft cotton cloth can be used to cover the tattoo.

What can you use to seal a temporary tattoo?

Seal with Clear Nail Polish

Clear nail polish can act as a durable sealant for your temporary tattoo. Apply a thin layer over the tattoo, and let it dry completely.

What color concealer covers tattoos?

You want to do the opposite color on the color wheel because you're trying to neutralize the color. So, if you have a red pimple on your face, you put a green concealer on it. It's the same with the tattoo. If you have a blue ink, you want to put orange on it.

How can I hide a tattoo naturally?

  • Clothing Choices: Wear long sleeves, high-neck tops, or pants to cover the tattoo.
  • Makeup: Use makeup specifically designed to cover tattoos.
  • Bandages or Adhesive Covers: Temporary bandages or skin-colored adhesive covers can be used to hide the tattoo.

How to cover a tattoo with makeup| Dermablend

How can I make my tattoo less visible?

Hydroquinone is a skin bleacher and lightening cream that reduces the melatonin and fades the pigments in the epidermis. Hydroquinone won't remove your tattoo, but it can visibly reduce its appearance and lighten it significantly.

What is the hardest tattoo color to cover up?

It is difficult to cover up a black tattoo with any color other than black. Other dark tones like navy or brown might work, but lighter colors won't be effective in covering up an original black tattoo.

What color cancels out black tattoo ink?

The most commonly used neutralizing color is a deep orange to cancel out the blue and blue-green shades of common tattoo inks. For tattoos with dark black ink, you should use a deep red neutralizer.

What can I use for temporary tattoos?

You can make them from pen or marker ink, from eyeliner or other types of makeup, from paper and stamps, from paint, from henna, from glitter, etc. And you can use stencils or shapes to help define the design you'd like.

Does hairspray make temporary tattoos last longer?

To get rid of any extra ink after application, gently press a towel onto the tattoo. Try hairspray: Hairspray can extend the lifespan of a temporary tattoo to a month. If you apply it, wait until the tattoo is dry, then spray the hairspray from a distance of 12 to 16 inches.

What can I use to cover my tattoo overnight?

To protect your tattoo from bacteria and other contaminants, be sure to keep it covered with a clean and breathable bandage. You can also use a specialized tattoo cover, such as an adhesive bandage specifically designed for tattoo aftercare.

Can you buy Saniderm at Walmart?

Saniderm tattoo bandage in 8″ x 8 yard roll Clear Adhesive Antibacterial bandage - Walmart.com.

What can I use as a substitute for a tattoo wrap?

If you must bandage your tattoo, use clean, non-stick gauze pads. It is best to leave the tattoo open to the air because the constant friction of a bandage may cause healing problems. Only bandage if necessary! - DO NOT use Vaseline, A+D ointment, Neosporin or petroleum jelly.

What draws out tattoo ink?

Saline tattoo removal is a procedure that uses a saline solution to draw tattoo ink or pigment out of the skin.

What is the cheapest way to remove tattoos?

Out of the three prescribed procedures, surgical removal is the cheapest at $150 to $350. Next is the laser tattoo removal at a national average of $463, according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Dermabrasion is a bit expensive – it can cost up to several thousands of dollars.

What is the riskiest tattoo color?

Red ink is still the most likely color to cause skin problems. Why? Red tattoo inks are the most likely to cause health complications, including rashes and pseudolymphomas, both symptoms of an allergic reaction.

How can I hide a tattoo?

The easiest way to hide a tattoo is to change your outfit up a little bit. Sleeves and pant legs can easily cover up visible tattoos on your arms and legs. A scarf can cover up a tattoo on your neck or upper chest. If you have ankle or lower-leg tattoos, longer socks or boots can cover them up.

How to make a tattoo fade?

Natural methods like exfoliation, lemon juice, and hydrogen peroxide can offer gradual fading but carry risks of skin irritation and inconsistent results. For safer and more effective tattoo removal, professional treatments such as the advanced Phantom™ Laser technology are highly recommended.

How to temporarily cover tattoos?

Arguably, the best makeup to cover tattoos is tattoo makeup—that is, makeup specifically formulated for tattoo coverage. That can be hard to find, though (not to mention pricey). If you don't have any tattoo makeup on hand, a color corrector, foundation, and concealer will get the job done, too.

How to naturally remove a tattoo?

One of the most common home tattoo removal methods we see talked about is salabrasion or rubbing the skin away with salt. It's an old method, and it does technically work, provided you rub enough skin off to reach the layer where the ink is held. You could also achieve the same effect with coarse sand or sandpaper.

Do fine line tattoos age poorly?

Fine line tattoos are said to fade more aggressively than regular tattoos, though both tattoo styles will fade with time, and may need touch-ups. The longevity of your tattoo in either style relies on the location of the tattoo, how well you care for your skin, and the excellence of the tattoo artist you choose.

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