How to Temporarily Cover a Tattoo

Written By
Leigh Good
Leigh Good
Published: Sep 1, 2010
Updated: Mar 11, 2019
2 minute read

If you have a tattoo that is normally visible, you may sometimes feel a need to cover it temporarily. For a job interview or formal event, you may consider covering your tattoo just for the day to prevent stares or questions. Covering a tattoo temporarily is an easy process. You can hide your skin art in a variety of ways. Consider the size and location of the tattoo when deciding how best to cover it up.

Practice beforehand. Try a few methods of covering your tattoo before the day you absolutely need to hide the artwork. This way you can concentrate and see how long it will take to hide the tattoo.

Choose clothing that hides the tattoo. If your tattoo is on your arm or leg, wear long sleeves or long pants. Try on clothes and look in a mirror to make sure that the clothing completely covers the tattoo, even when you move. Make sure your tattoo can't be seen through your clothes. Wear an undershirt if the tattoo is visible through your shirt. Remember not to push up your sleeves out of habit, if doing so will reveal your tattoo.

Wear bandages. If your tattoo is small, you can easily cover it with a few adhesive bandages. Note that this may still draw attention to the area, and people will think that you have an injury. Be prepared to field questions about what caused your injury. Cover a large tattoo with larger bandages, which you can purchase at drugstores. Be careful when using adhesive bandages and medical tape on top of body hair.

Cover the tattoo with makeup. Purchase a concealer that matches your skin tone from any drugstore or beauty supply store. Wash and dry your skin, then apply the concealer on top of the tattoo. Use a makeup sponge to blend the concealer over the entire tattoo. Apply a neutral pressed powder using a makeup brush to seal the concealer.

Leigh Good

Leigh Good has been writing for magazines and newspapers for more than 10 years. Her work has been published in numerous print and online publications. Good has a bachelor's degree in print journalism from Georgia State University.

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