Development of Light-Switchable Tattoo Ink
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At a glance
Light-switchable tattoo ink uses light exposure to turn tattoos on and off, allowing designs to disappear from view indefinitely. As of October 9, 2026, researcher has demonstrated the method with a fish-scale tattoo worn for two years with no known side effects and no obvious fading. The technology could radically reimagine tattoos for cosmetic flexibility and medical uses, opening new service possibilities for the tattoo industry and medical providers.
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Light-Switchable Tattoo Ink Turns Designs On and Off
Researchers at the University of Colorado have developed tattoo inks that can be turned on and off with light, a first for this tracking topic as of October 9, 2026. Developer Carson Bruns says users can make a design disappear from view and keep it off indefinitely.
Bruns himself has worn a fish-scale tattoo using the method for two years with no known side effects and no obvious fading. The advance could reshape tattoo services and open medical uses.
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