FAQ
WHAT IS JAGUA INK?
Naturally derived from the pulp of a fruit from South America, called Genipa Americana, it's the only temporary tattoo option in the market that is skin-safe, PPD-free, and stains a blue-black colour — giving it a look that resembles an actual tattoo when it develops after 24-48 hours.
Jagua ink is applied on top of the skin, making it a painless, comfortable process.
With proper care, the end result can last up to 2 weeks.
HOW DOES JAGUA INK STAIN WORK?
The active ingredient, genipin, stains the top layer (epidermis) of your skin by reacting with amino acids in your cells. As your old skin cells flake off, so does the Jagua ink stain.
After inking, leave the gel on your skin for at least 2-4 hours before washing it off completely with water and soap. The final Jagua stain will only develop after 24-48 hours.
Find out more in our inking guide.
HOW DO I STORE AND USE MY JAGUA INK?
As Jagua ink is made from a fruit, it will oxidise and lose potency over time.
Keep your Jagua ink fresh by storing it in the freezer when not in use.
When you’re ready to ink, take the ink out to thaw and lightly shake the bottle just before use.
WHAT IS THE SHELF LIFE OF FLÖ JAGUA INK?
When stored in the freezer, Jagua ink can typically stay fresh and retain its best potency for 3-6 months. We have tried storing it for longer periods, and some batches of ink do last longer, but we do not recommend using old ink of more than 8-12 months on skin.
“Oops, I forgot to put my ink back in the freezer! Can I still use it?”
Our ink can last for up to 20-30 days when stored outside of the freezer.
WHY DO YOU SELL YOUR INK IN SMALL QUANTITIES?
As our ink is fruit-based and can lose potency over time, we want to ensure we only stock and deliver the freshest ink supply. On average, we make new batches every month — so if our ink runs out, do be patient and wait for updates about our next batch!
IS THE INK WATERPROOF?
The ink is not, but the developed stain is! Upon application, the ink will be wet and very susceptible to smudging for 30 mins to 1 hour. It will be water-resistant only after the stain has developed.
I LOVE MY DESIGN, CAN IT LAST LONGER THAN 2 WEEKS ON MY SKIN?
Generally, we recommend coconut oil or other natural oils to help prolong the stain on skin. However, this also depends on your skin type!
How to apply: After the stain has developed for 24-48 hours (in its darkest form), apply the oil over the stain (lightly spread, do not rub or scratch).
I SWEAT A LOT, WILL IT AFFECT THE STAIN?
Yes it does! For athletes or people who engage in activities that cause the skin to sweat or exfoliate (e.g. swimming, going to the beach, active sports), the stain does fade faster than it typically would.
Pro-tip: Stains on the upper arm fade slower as compared to stains on the wrists/lower arm as there are less abrasions/points of contact (i.e. writing, typing on keyboard, etc.).
We also recommend that you ink on your non-master arm to minimise rubbing of the skin.
OH NO! I’VE MADE A MISTAKE AND WANT TO REMOVE THE INK STAIN. WHAT CAN I DO?
Freshly applied ink can be removed using alcohol wipes or wet wipes. Make sure to remove the ink completely, as it will continue to stain the skin the longer it remains.
I NEED MY INK STAIN TO FADE FASTER, WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Once the stain has developed (for the first 3 days), it will be difficult to remove it intentionally. After 4-5 days, simple exfoliation of the skin regularly can enable the stain to fade faster than usual.
HOW DO I KNOW WHICH APPLICATOR TIPS TO USE?
Highly dependent on personal preference. Metal tips are great because ink flows out more consistently — this is very helpful for beginners! Some of our artists will also use 27G or 30G plastic tips for intricate designs which require more thin lines. We have a very helpful tip comparison in our guide.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO BE ALLERGIC TO JAGUA INK?
It is possible, but rare (<0.2%). Jagua ink comes from a fruit – if you are allergic to tropical fruits such as pineapples, berries (blueberries, strawberries, etc), we suggest you do a test with a small amount of ink either behind the ear or a small area of your arms/legs prior to doing up a full design.
If an allergy occurs, it will manifest in the form of red rashes/bumps (wherever the ink makes contact on your skin), which will be itchy and may induce pain when scratched. Unlike PPDs (paraphenylenediamine) found in black henna, an allergic reaction to Jagua will not create a lasting scar and will gradually fade with treatment.
Please seek help from a medical professional if an allergy arises.
I HAVE NO BACKGROUND IN DRAWING, CAN I STILL BE GOOD AT JAGUA INK ART?
Of course! Jagua ink is a medium that requires constant and consistent practice, regardless of your ability in drawing.
P.S. Your own arms and legs are always the best canvases!
WHAT IS YOUR SHIPPING/REFUND POLICY?
Do refer to our shipping policy page here.
ASK US ANYTHING!
Drop us a DM at @flo.jagua on Instagram or reach out to us at hello@flojagua.com!