UV tattoos use special ink that fluorescence under blacklight, making the design glow in UV lighting. Contrary to popular belief, they do not glow in the dark on their own—unlike glow sticks, they don’t contain phosphorescent compounds, which are unsafe for skin. UV inks contain fluorescence which is naturally found in tonic water and other living species- corals, scorpions, fungi and more.

In regular light, UV ink is often invisible or appears like standard tattoo ink. These tattoos typically last as long as traditional ones, though the invisible ink (like electric blue) may need retouching 18–24 months.

Tattoo longevity depends on factors like placement, skin type, and sun exposure