GoKawiilResearcher develops UV-activated invisible tattoo ink, tests it on himself
Nanoscientist Carson Bruns of the University of Colorado Boulder tattooed his own leg with an ink that stays invisible until exposed to ultraviolet light, and can be erased with bright visible light. His team created magenta, yellow and blue versions made of photochromic dye encased in tiny acrylic spheres, tested on pig and silicone skin, with findings published in Matter & Light. Bruns previously commercialized a related UV-reactive ink called Magic Ink through his startup HYPRSKN in 2024.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Outside experts cited say reversible, invisible tattoo inks could have practical uses beyond cosmetics, such as medical markers for guiding radiotherapy without a permanent visible mark. Chemist Haihui Joy Jiang notes that adapting photochromic materials for permanent implantation in living skin is a novel application, suggesting the technology could open new possibilities in medical device design. The involvement of a commercial spinoff, HYPRSKN, indicates the research may be heading toward further product development.
- Carson Bruns tattooed himself with ink visible only under UV light, erasable with bright light
- The ink uses photochromic dyes in acrylic spheres, tested on pig and silicone skin
- Potential uses include medical tattooing like radiotherapy markers, per outside scientists
Blacklight UV Flashlight — Curious about how photochromic inks react to ultraviolet light? A pocket UV flashlight lets you see fluorescent and UV-reactive materials glow, similar to the invisible tattoo ink described in the article. It's a fun, affordable way to explore UV-reactive phenomena at home.
See Blacklight UV Flashlight on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: nature.com — Fieldhouse, 2026-10-09
Published there as: “Watch this invisible tattoo appear under UV light”
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