Glow tattoo

Tattoos → G → Glow tattoo

If you like bright effects, watercolor tattoo styles can add a soft color wash around UV accents.

What a glow (UV) tattoo is

A glow tattoo (often called a UV or blacklight tattoo) is designed to look subtle in normal lighting and become more visible under ultraviolet light. Some designs use UV ink for hidden lines, while others combine regular ink with UV accents to create a "two-mode" effect.

Glow tattoo design ideas

Simple shapes and clean linework usually work best: stars, geometric accents, small symbols, outlines, and short words. UV ink can highlight parts of a larger tattoo-like a halo, sparks, or a hidden pattern-without making the whole piece look busy.

Placement and visibility

If you want a discreet tattoo, choose places that are often covered (upper arm, rib, thigh). If you want the glow effect to be seen easily in nightlife settings, forearm and calf are common. Keep in mind: the smaller the tattoo, the more important clean lines become.

Ink and safety

Only work with a professional artist who uses reputable inks and follows strict hygiene. Ask about the ink brand, discuss sensitivities, and consider a small test if you have allergy concerns. UV tattoos can age differently than standard ink, so plan for a design that still looks good in normal light.

Aftercare basics

Follow standard aftercare and minimize sun exposure during healing. Keeping the tattoo moisturized and protected helps preserve both the normal look and the glow effect.