Are Temporary Tattoos Safe? What Parents Need to Know

Child wearing Evnor soccer temporary tattoos on cheek at a match day

April 25, 2026

Most parents asking this question are not worried about temporary tattoos in general. They're worried about a specific kind — the black henna ones sold at street fairs and tourist markets. That concern is legitimate. The answer for water-transfer tattoos, which is what Evnor makes, is different.

The Two Types Are Not the Same

Black henna tattoos are painted directly onto skin using a dye that often contains para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical that can cause severe allergic reactions in some people. These are a different product from what you're buying in a pack. They are not what any reputable temporary tattoo brand ships.

Water-transfer tattoos — also called decal tattoos — are printed designs on cellulose paper with a thin layer of water-soluble adhesive. You press the sheet against your skin, wet it, and the design lifts off onto your skin. Reputable water-transfer tattoo products use cosmetic-grade inks and skin-safe adhesives — always check that your product lists its ingredients on the packaging. These are what Evnor's packs use.

Are They Safe for Kids?

For most children, yes. Water-transfer temporary tattoos have been used at birthday parties, school events, and fan days for decades without incident.

The main precaution: children with known skin sensitivities, eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis may react to the adhesive in some products. For these children, consult a pediatrician before use. If your child has mildly reactive skin without a diagnosed condition, do a small patch test on the inner arm first and wait 20 minutes before applying elsewhere.

For children with no known skin issues, normal application is fine.

Step-by-step visual showing how to apply a water-transfer temporary tattoo on clean dry skinHow to Apply Them Correctly

The two most common mistakes:

  1. Applying on damp or recently lotioned skin — the design won't transfer cleanly and may peel early
  2. Rubbing instead of pressing — friction breaks the transfer

Clean, dry skin. Firm press for 30 seconds. Peel the backing slowly. That's it.

Avoid placing tattoos near the eyes, on broken skin, or on sunburned areas regardless of age.

How Long Do They Last?

Typically two to four days with normal activity. Factors that shorten wear: swimming, heavy sweating, scrubbing during washing. Factors that extend it: keeping the area dry after application, patting rather than rubbing when drying off.

For a single match day or watch party, longevity is not a concern. They last well past the final whistle.

How to Remove ThemIllustration of a patch test being done on the inner arm before applying a temporary tattoo

Baby oil or coconut oil, left on for 30 seconds and wiped off, removes most designs cleanly. Rubbing alcohol works faster but is harsher — fine for adults, less ideal for young kids. Soap and warm water with light scrubbing also works with a bit more patience. See the full guide: How to Remove Temporary Tattoos.

The Short AnswerGroup of kids wearing Evnor soccer fan temporary tattoos at a watch party

Water-transfer temporary tattoos are safe for most adults and children. Patch-test first if your child has reactive skin, and consult a pediatrician if your child has a diagnosed skin condition. Apply on clean, dry skin. Everything else takes care of itself.

The 10-Sheet Variety Pack covers USA, Mexico, and Argentina designs — enough for a full family or a group watch party. Individual country packs are available for USA, Mexico, and Argentina.

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