5 Reasons You Will Love Jagua Tattoos

When it comes to temporary tattoos, henna has always been number one; it’s popular all over the world. Henna is characterized by the reddish and brown shades it leaves on our skin and hair. These days henna is being given a run for its money in the popularity stakes by a ‘new’ kid on the block: jagua ink.

Both of these natural inks do more or less the same thing, but there are some important differences. Where henna appeals to one, jagua may appeal to another; it depends on the look you are hoping to achieve. This time we’re focusing on jagua… and we can think of at least 5 reasons you’ll love jagua tattoos:

1 – Jagua has cultural significance

Jagua may seem relatively new to us here in the US, as its popularity as a temporary tattoo ink has only recently grown. It’s really not so new, actually… this versatile South American fruit has been used in different ways for centuries.

Jagua is a fruit , so it is consumed as a highly nutritious food source. But it also contains a natural dye capable of staining the skin much like henna does. For this reason, Central and South Americans have used it in ceremonies, rituals and festivals, marking their skin with its blue-black dye. 

2 – Jagua tattoos look just like permanent ink

One of the things jagua fans will tell you is that jagua is the best option for deep, black temporary tattoos. Henna is awesome in its own right, but it doesn’t really resemble permanent tattoos – not many people get inked with reddish-brown shades. 

The blue-black jagua ink is the most similar in appearance to permanent tattoos, which makes it a great choice for those who want the impressive ink (and the admiration it brings) without the pain, cost and commitment! 

Jagua tattoos are also great for trial runs, if you’re thinking of getting permanent ink. You’ll be able to get a good idea how your design will look in reality… so you can decide if it really is such a great idea. 

3 – Jagua gel simple to use

Jagua gel is made from the extract of jagua fruit, which is mixed with other totally natural ingredients. Henna City’s jagua gel is incredibly easy to use. There is no mixing involved – the gel is ready to go in its pot. All you need to do is attach the applicator and the tip that most suits the tattoo style… and you’re ready to go. 

You can use a stencil for your design, or if you’re feeling confident, you could freestyle. Perhaps for your first time with jagua gel, a stencil would be better though. If you make a mistake, you’ll be stuck with it for a couple of weeks. 

Jagua gel comes out almost clear, but the color changes as it dries. Once applied, it should be dry within half an hour to an hour, but we recommend you don’t rinse it off until around three hours have passed. This way you’ll get the best possible results. Within a couple of days, your tattoo will deepen to the blue-black color you see in the images. 

4 – Jagua is completely natural and animal friendly

As jagua comes from a fruit, it is non-toxic and totally natural. There are no animal products in it, and it’s safe for people of all ages. The chances of allergy are very slim but we would always recommend a patch test with any new substance to be used on children or people with sensitive skin. Some people have unusual food allergies, so it’s always better to check. 

Pregnant women use jagua gel with no problems, much like they do with the current trend of baby bump henna. Jagua is often used instead of black henna, as it contains no harmful chemicals. Jagua gel doesn’t contain PPD (paraphenylenediamine), so you can create stunning temporary tattoos with no fear of chemical reactions. 

5 – Jagua works well on all skin types and colors

Another advantage jagua gel has over other types of temporary tattoos is that because it is so dark, it contrasts well with all skin colors. It is easy to see on the skin and will really stand out. Jagua lasts well on all skins too: for between ten and fifteen days.

Some variations should be allowed for though; the length of time it stays will depend on your skin type and where you have placed the tattoo on the body. If you go swimming in a chlorinated pool, it’s likely to fade more quickly because it’s a natural product. Consider applying a barrier cream of some kind before doing so. 

Don’t forget that it isn’t just skin that jagua can stain – keep it well away from your furnishings and clothing while it is still wet. Even when it has dried, when going to bed, it’s a good idea to cover it to prevent any transference.

That’s five great reasons to get a jagua tattoo. If you experience our quality jagua gel, we are confident that you’ll come up with a few more reasons of your own. There’s only one way to find out!