Fake tattoo pen: how to draw temporary tattoos yourself

fake tattoo gepersonaliseerde tattoo nep tattoo temporary tattoo tijdelijke tattoo
Leestijd: 6 minuten Laatste update: 17 januari 2026

Would you like to try a tattoo without immediately going to a tattoo shop? A fake tattoo pen might seem like the perfect solution. You simply draw a design on your skin yourself and can remove it later. But how exactly does such a pen work, how long does the result last, and is it safe for your skin? In this article, we tell you everything about fake tattoo pens and show you which alternatives exist to experiment with tattoo designs worry-free.

What is a fake tattoo pen?

A fake tattoo pen is a special marker with which you can draw temporary tattoos on your skin. These pens come in various types and qualities. The most common variants are:

  • Henna pens: often contain (synthetic) henna and give a reddish-brown color that lasts for several days
  • Temporary tattoo markers: special markers with skin-friendly ink that remain visible for 1 to 3 days
  • Jagua pens: made from jagua fruit, give a blue-black color that resembles real tattoos
  • Cosmetic pens: waterproof markers intended for temporary use on the skin

The great advantage of a fake tattoo pen is that you can get creative yourself. You decide the design, size, and placement. Ideal for experimenting before making a permanent choice.

How do you use a fake tattoo pen?

Applying a temporary tattoo with a pen is quite simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind for the best result:

Step by step

1. Thoroughly clean your skin
Make sure the area where you want the tattoo is clean and dry. Remove all creams, oils, or dirt for optimal adhesion.

2. Sketch your design first
If you are not confident in your drawing skills, first draw the design on paper or use a stencil. You can also sketch a sample on your skin with a regular pen.

3. Draw the tattoo
Apply the fake tattoo pen to your skin with even, steady movements. Some pens require multiple layers for an opaque result.

4. Let it dry
Allow the ink at least 10-15 minutes to dry before putting on clothes or touching the area.

Tips for the best results

  • Practice on paper first if you want to create a complicated design
  • Use a mirror if you want a tattoo in a hard-to-reach spot
  • Avoid contact with water during the first hours after application
  • Do not apply body lotion on the tattoo, as this can reduce its durability

How long does a fake tattoo pen last?

The durability of a fake tattoo pen varies greatly depending on the type of pen and brand. Generally, you can expect the following:

  • Regular markers: 1-2 days, fades quickly when in contact with water
  • Henna pens: 3-7 days, depending on quality and how often you wash the area
  • Jagua pens: 1-2 weeks, the most durable result
  • Special tattoo markers: 2-5 days with normal activities

Important to know: a fake tattoo pen usually lasts shorter than a temporary sticker tattoo, especially in areas with a lot of friction or that get wet regularly.

Is a fake tattoo pen safe?

This is an important question because not all fake tattoo pens are equally safe for your skin. Pay attention to the following points:

Possible risks

  • Allergic reactions: some pens contain chemicals that can cause skin irritation
  • Black henna: pens with PPD (para-phenylenediamine) can cause severe allergic reactions
  • Untested products: many cheap pens are not dermatologically tested
  • Infection risk: there may be an increased risk of infection with damaged skin

Safe alternative

Want to experiment with tattoos worry-free without risk of skin irritation? The temporary tattoos from tatt4aweek.nl are dermatologically tested, made from natural ingredients, and safe for every skin type. They stay beautiful for up to 2 weeks and are water-resistant, perfect to test if a design really suits you.

Advantages and disadvantages of a fake tattoo pen

Advantages

  • You can be creative yourself and make your own designs
  • Relatively inexpensive to purchase
  • Easy to remove with soap and water (for most types)
  • No long waiting, you can start immediately

Disadvantages

  • Result strongly depends on your drawing skills
  • Not all pens are equally safe for the skin
  • Often short-lasting, especially when in contact with water
  • Difficult to create sharp lines and details
  • Can become blotchy or uneven

Better alternatives to a fake tattoo pen

Although a fake tattoo pen can be fun to experiment with, there are better alternatives if you really want to know how a tattoo looks on you:

Temporary stick-on tattoos

Instead of drawing yourself, you can choose professionally designed temporary tattoos. These offer many advantages:

  • Professional design that looks like a real tattoo
  • Dermatologically tested and safe
  • Lasts up to 2 weeks, even when swimming and exercising
  • Easy to apply in a few minutes
  • Wide selection of different styles and designs

At tatt4aweek.nl you’ll find hundreds of designs in various styles. Whether you’re looking for flower tattoos, text tattoos, or butterfly tattoos, there’s something for everyone.

Test the spot first

Still unsure about the perfect spot for your tattoo? With a temporary tattoo you can try out different body parts:

This way you can calmly discover which spot suits you best, without immediately making a permanent choice.

Conclusion: experiment worry-free with temporary tattoos

A fake tattoo pen can be a fun way to experiment with tattoos temporarily, but the quality and safety often leave much to be desired. The result strongly depends on your own drawing skills and the durability is limited. Moreover, you risk skin irritation with pens that are not tested.

Want to really know how a tattoo looks on you? Choose professionally designed temporary tattoos that are safe, waterproof, and long-lasting. At tatt4aweek.nl you'll find a huge collection of designs that look like real tattoos and last up to 2 weeks. Perfect for experimenting before making a permanent decision.

Ready to find your perfect tattoo? Check out our full temporary tattoo collection and discover which design suits you. Tattoo without regrets!