How do you waterproof a temporary tattoo?

Author: Tomas Daugherty  |  Last update: Sunday, January 18, 2026

Applying a coat of petroleum jelly can help create a seal over the tattoo and repel water. Water can cause the skin to dry out, which will increase the shedding of dead and dry skin.

How to make temporary tattoos waterproof?

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.

How to keep a temporary tattoo from coming off?

Apply a clear acrylic sealer or tattoo sealant over the tattoo using a sponge or brush. Let it dry completely. This won't make it truly permanent but can extend its lifespan. If you have skin-safe ink (like certain markers or pens), you can carefully trace over the temporary tattoo.

Does setting spray work on temporary tattoos?

To make it last longer you can use a setting spray or final seal but depending on where it is on your body you can just lightly spray it with hair spray. Keep in mind though the longer you have it on and it starts to fade a bit and have small imperfections it will look more realistic.

Can you swim with a temporary tattoo?

Chlorine in water breaks down temporary tattoos quickly. Most temporary tattoos will start peeling or fading after just one swim. To preserve your body art longer, avoid swimming or limit your time in chlorinated water.

How to apply & remove temporary tattoos | 5 removal ways tested

How to waterproof a tattoo for swimming?

But if you must join in on pool festivities before your skin has recovered, here are a few steps you can take to help prevent significant tattoo damage: Completely cover your tattoo with a waterproof dressing (products like Saniderm are available in various sizes). Limit the amount of time your tattoo is submerged.

Do temporary tattoos come off in water?

Allow your custom temporary tattoo to set before getting it wet. Once set, your tattoo should hold up great in the shower or while sweating. Fully submerging the tattoo in water however, may cause it to come off more quickly. We recommend gently patting the area dry to help reduce friction.

How long do waterproof temporary tattoos last?

Lasts Longer Than Most Temporary Tattoos: While most temporary tattoos only last a few days, Inkbox lasts up to 1-2 weeks and is water-resistant. You can shower, sweat, and go about your day.

How can I make my temporary tattoo stick better?

Avoid contact with clothing: After applying your temporary tattoo, avoid contact with any clothing until dry. 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.

How do you keep temporary tattoos on in the shower?

Wash the areas around the tattoo, not the tattoo itself.

Plus, if you are scrubbing your skin clean, the friction will start to tear the ink from your skin. It's ok to swim or shower with a waterproof temporary tattoo, just try not to soak it in a bath or allow it to come into contact with soap, body wash, or oils.

Why won't my temporary tattoo come off?

Apply some oil on the tattoo and spread it evenly. Pay close attention to the edges as they tend to be stubborn. Give the oil a few minutes to start breaking down the tattoo and its adhesives. Remove the leftovers of the oil and tattoo components using a cotton pad or clean towel.

How do you lock a temporary tattoo?

Spray a Thin, Even Coat: Lightly spray the hairspray over the temporary tattoo. Ensure not to saturate the area; a thin, even coat is sufficient. Let It Dry: Allow the hairspray to dry on the tattooed area. It acts as a protective sealant, helping to lock the tattoo in place.

Should I moisturize a temporary tattoo?

Moisturize

Once it's fully dried, apply a water-based moisturizer to your tattooed skin. (Oil-based products tend to cause temporary tattoos to smear.)

What is the best waterproof for tattoos?

Nexcare™ Tattoo™ Waterproof Strips stay on during active play, hand washing, swimming and other water sports. The diamond shape seals all the way around the pad to help seal out water, dirt and germs that may lead to infection.

Can you put a temporary tattoo on a water bottle?

Add temporary tattoos to a water bottle for a one time design or seal it with some Mod Podge for a longer lasting look.

How to seal a temporary tattoo?

Use Translucent Powder

Applying translucent powder can significantly prolong the lifespan of temporary tattoos by creating a protective barrier over the design. This powder application acts as a top coat, enhancing durability and preventing the tattoo from smudging or fading prematurely.

Why won't my temporary tattoo stick?

Temporary Tattoo Fail #1 - Lotion or Makeup on the Skin

If your skin is not clean and dry you won't get a good application. Remove makeup and lotion first, then apply the tattoo.

Does Vaseline make temporary tattoos last longer?

You have a temporary tattoo that will last up to two weeks! Apply Vaseline regularly to help it last even longer.

Is a temporary tattoo waterproof?

The general answer is; yes, many temporary tattoos are designed to be waterproof, and our temporary tattoo papers at Gecko Paper are no exception.

Does perfume make temporary tattoos last longer?

However, make sure it's a quick spritz—you don't want to drench the tattoo. How to Make a Temporary Tattoo Last Longer With Perfume: Similar to hairspray, a light spritz of perfume can make the tattoo last a bit longer.

What are the tattoos on Post Malone's face?

Hammer, Heart, Playboy Bunny, "DDP" and Smiley Face

While Malone has several big, bold tattoos on his face, he also has a small collection of teeny designs under his right eye: a small Playboy Bunny rabbit head, a heart, his daughter's initials and a smiley face with Xs for eyes grouped together.

Can salt water fade a tattoo?

While infection is potentially the greatest worry when it comes to swimming, exposing your new tattoo to salt water (or chlorine for that matter) also carries other risks. One of these is the risk of causing ink to leak from a fresh tattoo, making the colour less vibrant and causing your tattoo to fade prematurely.

Previous article
Why would Botox not be effective?
Next article
How long does it take to color roots at salon?