top of page

Ephemeral Tattoos are a scam (temporary tattoos)

Updated: Oct 26, 2023

Ephemeral tattoos are temporary tattoos marketed as a semi-permanent alternative to traditional tattoos. They are made using special ink designed to fade over time and can be removed more quickly than conventional tattoos. While some people may consider ephemeral tattoos a scam, others may find them a convenient and low-risk way to try a tattoo design before committing to a permanent one.



Like any product or service, varying opinions on its value and effectiveness may exist. Ephemeral tattoos may be a good option for people unsure about getting a permanent tattoo and want to test a design before making a long-term commitment. They may also be a good option for people uncomfortable with the pain or potential health risks associated with traditional tattoos.

It's important to note that while ephemeral tattoos are marketed as semi-permanent, they may not last as long as advertised and may fade or rub off more quickly than expected. Additionally, some people may have skin reactions to the ink or the application process. As with any decision regarding your body, it's essential to do your research, read reviews, and consult with a professional before making a decision. According to the New York Times - The temporary tattoo company updated its product description after customer complaints about persistent tattoos.


Ephemeral, a temporary tattoo company that opened its studio in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, in 2021, has received complaints from early customers claiming that their tattoos have lasted beyond the advertised nine to fifteen months. The studio's ink is advertised as "made to fade," but some customers have been disappointed with tattoos that have lasted longer than the company claimed they would. Although the company's waiver warned that the tattoos might last longer than the advertised time frame, its website once claimed the tattoos would be "gone in a year," a claim that has since been removed. The company has now introduced a "regret nothing guarantee" that offers refunds to customers whose tattoos last longer than three years. The company's CEO, Jeff Liu, has explained that tattoos are notably unpredictable and that genetics, skin type, tattoo placement, and light exposure affect how each body might respond to tattoo ink. The company has raised over $20 million in a Series A round, opened six studios across the US, and has over 10,000 customers. The primary innovation of the company is its ink, which breaks down over time. The founders tested the ink on each other, family, and friends, and case studies and clinical studies have been conducted under the supervision of an Institutional Review Board.

141 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All
bottom of page