Henna

• Henna ink is an old material with roots in the Middle East, Africa and India. The earliest appearance of the henna plant, from which the thin paste is derived, is believed to be in ancient Egypt. Traces of red henna ink have been discovered on mummified remains from 1200 BC. Today, Americans get temporary black or red henna tattoos by applying the paste with a pen to the surface of the skin and letting it dry for several hours. Once the paste is scraped off, the design will remain and deepen in color. The skin exfoliates itself in 20 to 30 days, at which point the henna tattoo will disappear.
  
  

Airbrush Paint

• Temporary airbrush tattoo paints are found in all colors in bottles available for purchase online and in some specialty stores. The paint is applied using a small airbrush and stencils with designs and lettering cut into them. Temporary airbrushed paint can be removed at any time with rubbing alcohol, but it will take up to 10 days to naturally come off. This material is water-resistant and can be applied at home with a kit or at special events like carnivals and birthday parties.
  
  

Water Transfer

• This is a popular method for children and adults who want a low-risk, low-commitment tattoo experience. A transfer sticker typically consists of white paper with non-toxic ink on the sticky side. Once the sticker is applied to the skin, it is dampened with water and peeled off slowly to reveal the transferred design. Using soap and water, the ink will wash away with a good scrubbing. It will otherwise naturally wear out in about a week.
  
  

Glitter

• Glitter tattoos are a trendy option easily done at home with a purchased kit. Kits come with non-toxic glue, stencils, applicator brushes and multicolored glitter. Customized stencils or stock designs can be ordered online. The stencil is held against the skin as a thin layer of glue is applied to the skin's surface. Before it dries, glitter is painted on with a brush and detailing tool, if necessary. The glitter design is safe, waterproof, and lasts for up to two weeks when kept dry. Rubbing alcohol will remove the glitter completely.