How to Create Believable Fake Tattoos According to Makeup Genius Isamaya Ffrench

Fake tattoos have come a long way since the days of peel-and-stick and the wrappers of Fruit Stripe Gum. Now, we see them added to your favorite movie stars for a film role like a pair of earrings, adorning Rihanna’s face for a Vogue cover, and in campaigns like Jean Paul Gaultier’s most recent Tattoo collection. 

“Historically, tattoos have had a meaning,” says British makeup artist Isamaya Ffrench, who was responsible for both Rihanna’s and JPG’s faux ink mentioned above. “They would often reflect rites of passage or achievements. Nowadays, tattoos are predominately ornamental. When you strip something off its meaning it can become decorative, and therefore fun! This is a way to get the look without the commitment.”

Whether you’re going for something subtle like Popeye or full on Harley Quinn, Ffrench says the first step in creating fake tattoos is starting with super clean skin. The makeup artist warns that “heavily moisturized skin will cause the pigments to come off,” so skip the post-shower lotion or body oil. Right before application, put some alcohol on a cotton pad and gently wipe the area off for a fresh base. 

While Ffrench typically freehands the design using tattoo markers, she says anybody who isn’t quite as confident in their artistic abilities can purchase a a tattoo transfer machine or try tattoo printer paper. Once your pick your medium, let the fake-ink flow. 

The final touch feels a bit obvious, but adding a setting spray or hairspray over the tattoo will create an anti-smudge seal. Next, try Ffrench’s trick to make the tattoo look lived-in and more realistic—grab a fluffy makeup brush and finish it off with a bit of setting powder. 

“What’s not to love?” Ffrench continues. “Especially if you want to print your soon to be ex-boyfriend’s name on your butt cheek.”