Gold tattoo ink is a popular choice for those looking to add some bling to their tattoos. It can be used to create stunning designs that really stand out from the crowd. But before you go ahead and get inked with gold ink, there are a few things you need to know. In this guide, we will answer all of your questions about gold tattoo ink and provide some useful tips on how to use it safely and effectively. So read on for everything you need to know about this dazzling form of body art!
Is Golden Tattoo Pigment Real?
The color gold is associated with wealth, luxury, and success. It’s also a popular color for those who want to make a statement with their art. If you’re thinking about getting a gold tattoo, there are a few things you should know first.
One thing many people may wonder is if golden tattoo pigment is actually real. To put it simply, not really. The thing is, tattoo inks are not pure pigment. It’s impossible to replicate the metallic shine of real gold in a tattoo. Technically, it would be possible to use real gold to create a tattoo, but it’s not practical for a few reasons.
It’s expensive
For starters, gold is expensive for a vast majority of artists and clients alike.
Gold flakes are toxic
If you decide to opt-in for a cheaper version of a gold tattoo by using gold flakes, you may want to think again. Many people don’t realize that these flakes are actually toxic. They can cause skin irritations and potentially even lead to heavy metal poisoning. Real gold isn’t toxic to the skin at all but again, this brings us back to the first issue; it’s just too expensive to use.
In addition, it’s impossible to replicate the shine of gold because of how the tattooing process works. When a tattoo needle punctures the skin, it actually pushes the ink down into the dermis. The dermis is the second layer of skin and it’s made up of collagen fibers. These fibers are much larger in diameter than the needle itself, so the ink gets spread out when it’s injected. While this will color your skin, it won’t shine the way real gold would.
Gold ink in fact does exist but it’s used more frequently in other forms of art. Golden ink is commonly used in illustrations, paintings etc, anything decorative really.[1],[2]
How Are Golden Tattoos Made
You now might ask, but how are golden tattoos made then? If real gold can’t be used, what do tattoo artists use to create the beautiful, shiney tattoos that we see? The answer is simple: it’s not really ink at all.
The truth is, tattoo artists use gold-colored metallic foil to create those stunning tattoos. It’s a lot like temporary tattoos that you might have had as a child, only it’s made to last much longer.
First, the artist transfers a design on the foil. Then, they cut out the design with a sharp knife. Once the design is cut out, they remove the negative space around it so that only the tattoo itself is left.
After that, they apply a layer of adhesive to the back of the tattoo and then place it on your skin. They use a burnishing tool to press it onto your skin and make sure that there are no air bubbles. Finally, they remove the top layer of paper to reveal your new tattoo. Once the adhesive sets, the tattoo is complete!
And because you will be applying it on the top layer of skin, you will be able to enjoy the shiny, metallic look of your tattoo.
Of course, there are some drawbacks to this method. For one, metallic tattoos can look unnatural. They don’t always blend in well with your skin tone and can appear to be fake.
Another downside is that it doesn’t last as long as traditional tattoos. Metallic tattoos will eventually start to fade away.
How Long Do These Tattoos Last?
The average temporary tattoo usually lasts between 5 days to a week. However, there are some factors that can affect how long your tattoo will last. These include the location of the tattoo, the type of ink used, and how well you take care of it.
But as we mentioned before, foil tattoos will last a bit longer than regular temporary tattoos. To extend the life of your tattoo, make sure to keep it clean and dry. Avoid scrubbing or picking at the tattoo, as this can cause it to fade faster. You should also avoid exposing it to sunlight or excessive heat, as this can also cause fading.
Are These Golden Foil Tattoos Safe?
So you’ve found an alternative. That’s great! But are these tattoos actually safe?
Generally, they are! These tattoos are made with FDA-compliant ingredients and they’re completely safe for your skin. However, as we mentioned before, they can cause skin irritations. If you have sensitive skin, it’s important to test the adhesive on a small area of your skin before applying the tattoo.
You should take into consideration any allergies that you might have before getting one of these tattoos. If you’re allergic to nickel, for example, make sure to check the ingredients of the adhesive to see if it contains any traces of nickel.
If you have any concerns, it’s always best to consult with a dermatologist or your tattoo artist before getting a tattoo. They’ll be able to help you determine whether or not a gold foil tattoo is right for you. And if you experience any irritation or redness, discontinue use immediately. Otherwise, enjoy your new tattoo!
What About Waterproof Capabilities?
Are you worried about your tattoo fading in the shower or pool? Good news— temporary tattoos aren’t as vulnerable to water as you might think. As long as you won’t be spending extended periods of time in the water, your tattoo should be just fine. Avoid scraping or rubbing the tattoo when you’re cleaning it, as this can cause it to fade.
But if you are going to be spending a lot of time in the water, there are a few things that you can do to extend the life of your tattoo. First, make sure to apply a layer of sunscreen before heading out. This will help protect your tattoo from the sun’s harmful rays.
You can also try applying a layer of petroleum jelly or vaseline over your tattoo. This will create a barrier between your skin and the water, which can help prevent fading. Just make sure to wash it off when you’re done swimming!
Are There Any Alternatives?
Still not convinced that a gold foil tattoo is right for you? That’s okay! There are plenty of other options out there. If you’re looking for something more permanent, you can always go with a traditional tattoo.
You can opt-in for a tattoo of a yellowish or golden hue. This will give you the same general look as a gold foil tattoo without the commitment. If you’re not ready to take the plunge, you can always start with a small, simple tattoo and go from there.
So, while there is no such thing as “pure” gold tattoo pigment, there are ways to get a similar effect using different colors of ink. For example, you could mix yellow and orange inks together to create a shade that resembles gold.
But as we already mentioned, such tattoos will come without a metallic sheen. So if this is a sacrifice that you’re not willing to make, a gold foil tattoo is definitely the way to go. [1]
Where Can I Get Temporary Gold Tattoos?
Now that you know everything there is to know about gold tattoos, where can you actually get one?
The best place to start your search is online. A quick Google search will reveal a number of different companies that sell temporary tattoos.
Amazon
Obvious choice, right? You can find just about anything on Amazon these days—and that includes temporary tattoos! There are a ton of different designs to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that you like.
Plus, you can read customer reviews before making your purchase. This is always helpful in getting an idea of what you can expect from a product. Just keep in mind that not all temporary tattoos are created equal. So be sure to do your research before settling on one!
Etsy
If you want to support small businesses, Etsy is a great place to start your search. There are tons of independent artists who sell temporary tattoos, many of whom offer gold foil designs. This is a great option if you’re looking for something unique and one-of-a-kind.
Plus, Etsy makes it easy to find tattoo designs that fit your specific style. Whether you’re looking for something dainty or bold, there’s an artist out there who can create the perfect tattoo for you.
Shop around and take your time before settling on a design— after all, this is a decision that you’ll have to live with (at least temporarily)! Once you’ve found the perfect tattoo, simply follow the instructions that come with it to apply.
Tattly
Tattly is a great option if you’re looking for high-quality, temporary tattoos. Tattly is an online store that specializes in temporary tattoos. They offer a wide variety of designs, including some gorgeous gold foil options. And the best part? Their tattoos are safe and non-toxic, so you can rest assured knowing that they won’t cause any irritation.
If you’re not sure which design to choose, Tattly also offers tattoo sets. These sets come with two or more coordinating tattoos, so you can mix and match them however you please. And at just $15 per set, they’re an affordable way to experiment with different looks.
Walmart
If you’re looking for a cheap and easy option, Walmart is always a good bet. You can find a variety of temporary tattoos there, including gold foil tattoos. They usually have a pretty good selection and the prices are hard to beat.
Just keep in mind that you’ll likely be sacrificing quality for price. But if you look closely, you can find some decent gold tattoos among the bunch.
Flashtat
Another such company is Flashtat. They offer a wide variety of different temporary tattoos, including gold foil tattoos. Their tattoos are made with safe, non-toxic ink and they ship worldwide.
No matter which platform you settle on, make sure to read reviews before making your purchase. This will help you avoid any surprises and ensure that you’re happy with your final product. [1]
Which Gold Tattoo Design Should I Choose?
Now that you know where to find temporary gold tattoos, it’s time to start shopping around for the perfect design.
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a tattoo design. First and foremost, think about the size of the tattoo. Gold tattoos can come in all shapes and sizes—from small and delicate designs to large and bold statements. Consider where you want to place the tattoo on your body and how big or small you want it to be.
We recommend you avoid placing your temporary tattoo on the area where the skin will be constantly moving—such as your hands, feet, or neck. This is because the tattoo may not stay in place as well and will likely fade much quicker.
You should also think about the overall look that you’re going for. Do you want something dainty and feminine? Or are you looking for something more edgy? Once you have an idea of what you want, start browsing through different designs until you find the perfect one.
For example, tattoos wrapped around your wrist or ankle are always a popular choice. They’re dainty and delicate, yet still make a statement. And because they’re small, they won’t break the bank. If you want something with a little more wow factor, opt for a large tattoo that covers your entire arm or leg. These tattoos definitely make more of a statement, but they can be quite expensive.
You can also go for the simple designs, like hearts or words. These are perfect if you want something small and low-key. But if you’re looking for something with a little more pizzazz, try out one of the gold foil designs. These tattoos have a metallic sheen that makes them stand out from the crowd.
It’s also important to think about the color of the tattoo. Gold tattoos can come in a variety of shades—from light and glittery to dark and metallic. Consider what will look best with your skin tone and go from there.
Since the tattoo is temporary, there is little to no commitment involved. So if you’re unsure about a design, don’t be afraid to experiment. You can always try out a few different designs before settling on the perfect one. And remember, the most important thing is to have fun with it! Gold tattoos are all about having fun and experimenting with different looks.
That said, you should always do your research before getting any tattoo. Make sure to order your tattoo from a verified seller or visit a reputable artist who uses sterile needles and fresh ink. Also, be sure to follow all aftercare instructions to avoid infection. [1]
How to Take Care After Your Temporary Golden Tattoo
After you’ve successfully applied your tattoo, it’s important to take care of it properly to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. Besides following the aftercare instructions provided by the artist or company, there are a few things you can do to keep your tattoo looking fresh.
Wash the area around the tattoo only
First and foremost, you should only wash the area around the tattoo—not the tattoo itself.
Do not use hot water, as this will cause the tattoo to fade more quickly. Avoid scrubbing or picking at the tattoo, as this can also lead to fading and irritation.
If your tattoo starts to itch, resist the urge to scratch it. Instead, apply a light layer of lotion or ointment to soothe the skin. If the itching persists, contact your doctor or dermatologist for further guidance.
Apply baby powder on your tattoo
After you’ve cleansed and dried the area, apply a thin layer of baby powder to your tattoo. This will help absorb any excess moisture and keep the tattoo from sticking to your clothes.
If you notice that the tattoo is starting to fade, you can reapply baby powder as needed. Just be sure not to overdo it, as this can cause the tattoo to become cakey and cracked.
If you follow these simple tips, your tattoo can last up to several weeks. So if you’re looking for a unique and beautiful tattoo that will turn heads, a gold foil tattoo is definitely worth considering! [3]
FAQ
How long does a gold tattoo last?
Since gold tattoos are akin to a temporary tattoo, they will usually last about two weeks. Of course, this depends on how well you take care of your tattoo – if you expose it to too much sunlight or water, it will fade faster.
To make your gold tattoo last longer, avoid scrubbing it when you shower and apply a layer of petroleum jelly before bed. This will create a barrier between your skin and the elements, allowing the ink to stay put for an extended period of time.
Can tattoos be done in gold ink?
Unfortunately, no. Gold is a metal and, as such, it is very expensive to use in tattoo ink. Even if you found gold tattoo ink for sale, we wouldn’t recommend using it.
Golden-like tattoos are done by applying a thin layer of golden foil over the skin. This is a much safer and cheaper alternative to using actual gold in your tattoo ink.
What does gold ink mean?
Gold ink has a lot of different meanings.
For some people, it is a way to show their wealth or success. For others, it is a sign of purity or religious beliefs. Whatever the meaning, gold tattoos are definitely eye-catching and unique.
Are gold flake tattoos safe?
Gold flakes, unlike real gold, can be toxic if they enter the bloodstream. For this reason, it’s always best to consult with a professional tattoo artist before getting inked.
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Conclusion
You might have come across some beautiful golden-like tattoos and wondered what type of ink was used. As you can see, the answer is more complicated than it seems! Gold ink isn’t used in tattooing at all. Instead, a thin layer of golden foil is placed on top of the skin.
Yes, you may be getting a temporary tattoo that will only last a few weeks, but it’s the only option if you want that gorgeous, shining gold tattoo. So go out there and get inked! And don’t forget to show off your new bling to all your friends. If you don’t mind sacrificing the metallic shine, you can opt-in for a permanent tattoo of yellow or similar tones. These inks will give you a beautiful tattoo that lasts a lifetime but will come without a natural golden shine. Either way, make sure to take good care of your new tattoo to enjoy it for as long as possible!
Thanks for reading! We hope this guide was helpful in answering your questions about gold tattoo ink. If you have any other questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below and we’ll do our best to answer them. Happy tattooing!
References:
- https://www.savedtattoo.com/golden-tattoo-ink/
- https://medium.com/@katetattoo/gold-tattoo-ink-all-questions-answered-df1cd531e7a4
- https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Temporary-Tattoo-Last-Longer