This Tattoo Patch Is Painless and Takes Just 15 Minutes
A London biotech company has created permanent tattoos you apply like a sticker—no needles, no pain, no healing time required. The breakthrough could make body art accessible to millions who avoid traditional tattooing.
Imagine getting a permanent tattoo that doesn't hurt, takes 15 minutes, and might someday arrive in your mailbox like a temporary tattoo from your childhood.
That's exactly what London-based biotech company CipherX has created with their "Microdot" patches. These quarter-sized adhesive patches use 112 microscopic, biodegradable needles to deposit permanent ink into your skin without the buzz of a tattoo gun or the sting of traditional needles.
Verge reporter Jess Weatherbed tested the technology firsthand and described the sensation as barely noticeable—like someone lightly touching her arm with a finger. She chose one of the company's available designs (a small sparkle icon) and had it applied to the inside of her elbow, an area known for being particularly painful with conventional tattooing.
The application process is remarkably simple. CipherX CEO Ferdinand Kohle placed an ink-coated guide on her arm, lined up the 3D-printed applicator, pressed a button, and the patch was on. After 15 minutes of waiting for the pigment to deposit, the patch came off to reveal the finished tattoo.
The Bright Side
The benefits extend far beyond pain relief. Weatherbed experienced zero bleeding, no scabbing, and no healing time whatsoever—a stark contrast to traditional tattoos that require weeks of aftercare. People with sensitive skin, fear of needles, or low pain tolerance now have a viable path to permanent body art.
The technology builds on existing cosmetic microneedle products but represents the first consumer-ready permanent tattoo application. While the current design library is limited to about 15 options and can't accommodate complex artwork or bony areas like ankles and fingers, it's a promising start.
The tattoo develops over two days as the ink settles. Weatherbed noted that hers appeared as tiny dots initially rather than smooth lines, though they became less visible after five days. For anyone who's ever wanted a tattoo but couldn't face the needle, this quiet revolution in body art just made permanent ink possible.
More Images
Based on reporting by The Verge
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
Spread the positivity!
Share this good news with someone who needs it
