What Are Smart Tattoos?

Scientists have created “smart tattoos” that can be applied to people's skin and glow. The tattoos rely on the same light-emitting technology found in everything from TVs to smartphone screens. But they can be applied in the same way as a temporary tattoo: put onto paper and then transferred onto a person's skin.

Are smart tattoos permanent?

Researchers expect smart tattoos to be just like their traditional counterparts; permanent. While that won't turn off some people, and some might even see it as an advantage, not everyone wants a permanent tattoo. Because of this, you can't expect smart tattoos to replace wearable devices, only supplement them.

What are tech tattoos?

These researchers have been formulating tattoo inks that conduct electricity and change color in response to different stimuli. These "tech tattoos" could power biomedical devices and wearable technologies, monitor and diagnose health issues, and augment human sensing and self-expression.