How to Apply and Remove Temporary Tattoos at Kids Parties
By Little Big Party Co. | Published: 2026-10-16
Category: How-to Guides
A step-by-step guide to applying temporary tattoos at kids parties and removing them without tears, plus safety checks and party favour ideas.
Quick answer
Apply temporary tattoos on clean, dry, hair-free skin by pressing a damp cloth over the design for 30 seconds, then peel the backing away slowly. Remove them with warm soapy water, baby oil, or a gentle oil-based cleanser rather than scrubbing. For parties, set up a tattoo station away from food and water fights, and keep the designs age-appropriate.
Why temporary tattoos work as party favours
Temporary tattoos give kids a takeaway that feels personal and immediate. Unlike a bag of sweets that disappears in minutes, a tattoo can be applied during the party and worn home, which keeps the theme going after the cake is cut. They suit almost any party theme because the designs do the storytelling: camping, nature, animals, or characters. For a camping or outdoor adventure party, Outdoor Adventures Temporary Tattoos from Little Big Party Co. feature camping and nature designs that apply with water and wash off easily, so they double as an activity and a party bag filler.
Safety and skin checks before you start
Temporary tattoos are generally low-risk, but a few checks prevent most problems. Ask parents about skin sensitivities or adhesive allergies before the party, and avoid applying tattoos to broken, sunburnt, or freshly shaved skin. Faces and necks are more sensitive than arms and ankles, so keep designs below the chin for younger children. If a child has eczema or very dry skin, patch-test a small area first and remove it if redness develops. Never apply a tattoo over a plaster or wound.
Setting up a tattoo station that runs itself
A simple station keeps the queue moving and reduces mess. You need a small bowl of water, a clean sponge or cloth, paper towels, a bin, and a tray of pre-cut tattoos. Place it on a low table away from the food table and any water play. If you are hosting a large group, assign one adult or older child to manage the station and limit each child to one or two tattoos. For party bags, add a single tattoo to each bag so the activity does not depend on a queue.
Choosing designs that suit the age group
Younger children usually prefer simple shapes and animals they can name, while older kids may want smaller, more detailed designs they can place on an ankle or wrist. If you are not sure, offer a mix and let them choose. For a themed party, match the tattoos to the decorations so the whole party feels connected. A Peppa Pig Happy Birthday Banner, for example, sets a pastel party scene that pairs well with character tattoos if you are running a Peppa Pig theme.
How to apply and remove temporary tattoos: step by step
- 1. Clean and dry the skin: Wipe the area with a damp cloth and let it dry completely. Oils, sunscreen, and lotion stop the tattoo from sticking. Checkpoint: the skin should feel matte, not slippery.
- 2. Position the tattoo face down: Peel the clear protective sheet and place the design face down on the skin. Press firmly so it does not shift. Common mistake: placing it on a hairy area, which makes removal uncomfortable.
- 3. Press a damp cloth over the design: Hold a wet cloth or sponge over the tattoo for about 30 seconds. For larger designs, add a little more water and wait another 10 seconds. Checkpoint: the paper backing should look fully saturated before you peel.
- 4. Peel the backing slowly: Lift one corner and peel back gently. If the design lifts with the paper, press the backing down again and add water. Common mistake: pulling too fast, which smudges the edges.
- 5. Let it set: Leave the tattoo uncovered for a few minutes so it dries onto the skin. Avoid touching it with wet hands or clothing. Checkpoint: the design should look crisp and feel smooth, not tacky.
- 6. Remove with oil or warm soapy water: Soak a cotton pad with baby oil or an oil-based cleanser and hold it on the tattoo for 20 to 30 seconds, then wipe gently. Warm soapy water works for fresh tattoos. Common mistake: scrubbing hard, which irritates the skin. If it resists, add more oil and wait.
- 7. Clean and moisturise: Wash off any oil residue with mild soap and pat dry. Apply a gentle moisturiser if the skin feels dry. Next step: check the skin for redness and keep the area clean for the rest of the day.
Party-ready products used in this guide
- Outdoor Adventures Temporary Tattoos: Outdoor Adventures Temporary Tattoos feature camping and nature designs, apply with water, and wash off easily. They work as both a party activity and a party bag filler for a camping or outdoor adventure theme.
- Peppa Pig Happy Birthday Banner: Peppa Pig Happy Birthday Banner is made from FSC certified paper, easy to hang, and features Peppa, George, and baby Evie in the Made With Love design. It sets a pastel party scene above the table or doorway and pairs with matching Peppa Pig tableware and decorations.
- East Of India Matchbox Porcelain Wishbone: East Of India Matchbox Porcelain Wishbone comes in a matchbox-style box printed with 'Make a wish' and is a small keepsake. A quiet, non-edible favour option for adults or older children when you want a token rather than a tattoo.
