Tattoos have been around for a very long time, and can even be traced back to 4000 BC. Now that is mind-blowing!
Of course, tattoos have worn several hats throughout the past 6000 years. Tattoos have been used as a status symbol, for prison markings, and for aesthetic enhancements (i.e. permanent makeup). They have been used culturally and as a form of artistic self-expression. Tattoos have also gone from being accepted to rejected and back to being accepted by society in the 2000’s, and recently tattoos have just boomed in popularity with about 38% of adults between the ages of 18 and 29 having at least 1.
What tattoos have also done is evolve in its technique and style. We can all agree, it is hard to imagine a time when turkey bones were used to tattoo soot into the skin. But what may be even harder to imagine is just exactly how far tattoos have actually come.
Tattoos as we know them today have developed into something so spectacular, that it will have your jaw drop to the floor. And yes, we are talking about UV tattoos. Invisible to the naked eye, but a visual sensation under UV light. Join us, and let’s talk about it.
UV Tattoos Explained
UV is short for ultraviolet light, and ultraviolet light is a type of light that has shorter wavelengths than the light we can see but longer wavelengths than X-rays.
Therefore, UV tattoos are invisible (or faintly visible) in regular light, making them a great option for those who want to express themselves without judgement in the workplace, society, or religiously, or for those who just love all things with a WOW-factor attached to them.
When UV tattoos are exposed to UV light, they sparkle, shine, and reveal intricate designs that can be quite striking. The ink used for UV tattoos are generally made from a variety of phosphorescent materials, which are safe for the skin when applied by a professional tattoo artist.
The Appeal Of UV Tattoos
One of the primary appeals of UV tattoos is their dual nature.
By day, these beauties can be completely hidden, and by night (under UV light) they come to life showcasing their vibrant colours and patterns.
Settings like clubs where UV lighting is common, make for the perfect amphitheatre to flaunt your UV treasures with the workplace being none the wiser in the morning. It is this duality that offers a unique way for individuals to express themselves creatively without compromising their appearance in everyday situations.
Creative Possibilities
The artistic possibilities with UV tattoos are virtually limitless. Tattoo artists can use UV ink to highlight specific parts of a traditional tattoo, adding a touch of awesomeness and a new dimension to your original design.
For example, a tattoo of a jellyfish might appear ordinary in daylight but under UV light, your jellyfish’s bioluminescence creates a realistic, dynamic and visually stunning effect.
Some people choose UV tattoos for symbolic reasons, incorporating hidden messages or designs that only become visible under certain conditions, adding a layer of personal meaning and mystery.
Safety And Considerations
As with absolutely any tattoo, safety is a crucial consideration. UV ink is considered safe, but it is essential to go to a reputable and experienced tattoo artist who uses high-quality ink. It is also VERY important to note that some people might have allergic reactions to certain components in the UV ink, so a patch test is often recommended before getting a UV tattoo.
Therefore, just as you would for a regular tattoo, professionalism is key. Additionally, because UV tattoos can be more challenging to apply and require precision, choosing an artist skilled in working with UV ink is vital to ensure the best results.
Maintenance And Care
UV tattoos require similar aftercare to traditional tattoos. So if you are the owner of at least 1 tattoo you know the drill.
If this will be your first tattoo, then please keep your tattoo clean and moisturised. This is essential to prevent infection and ensure proper healing.
However, let it be known that UV tattoos can be more prone to fading over time, especially if they are frequently exposed to sunlight, because the UV rays from the sun can degrade the phosphorescent compounds in the ink, thus diminishing their glowing effect.
So we are looking at you sun bums, tennis coaches and surfers, as this may not be the best choice for you … but before unleashing those crocodile tears, using sunscreen on your UV tattooed area can help preserve the vibrancy of your UV tattoo.
Simply astounding. Let us continue.
Cultural And Social Impact
UV tattoos have not only influenced personal aesthetics but have also made a mark (pun intended) in popular culture.
They have been embraced by various subcultures, including the electronic dance music (EDM) community, where the combination of music, lights, and UV tattoos create an immersive experience.
They have also been embraced by celebrities and influencers showcasing their UV tattoos on social media platforms having further popularised this trend, making it more mainstream and accessible to a wider audience.
Ethical And Environmental Considerations
As the popularity of UV tattoos grows, so does the importance of ethical and environmental considerations.
Ensuring that the ink used is free from harmful chemicals and is sourced responsibly is essential for both the safety of the individuals getting tattooed (you) and the broader environment. (the globe).
Many tattoo artists and studios are now opting for vegan and eco-friendly UV ink, which beautifully aligns with a growing awareness of sustainability and ethical practices in the tattoo industry.
The Future Of UV Tattoos
The future of UV tattoos looks bright (almost brighter than the UV tattoo itself).
With numerous advances in ink technology leading to even more vibrant and long-lasting UV tattoos, the tattoo community continues to innovate and create new techniques and styles that will push the boundaries of what is possible with UV tattoos.
UV tattoos are awesome and they represent a unique intersection of art, technology, and personal expression. Their ability to transform under UV light provides you with a versatile and visually stunning option if you have been yearning to push the boundaries of traditional tattooing.
Let it be known, that as this trend continues to grow, it will undoubtedly inspire new artistic innovations and become a lasting fixture in the world of body art.
