How It Works

How to
apply it.

Five steps. No tools. No experience needed. A Sabai tattoo takes under two minutes to apply and lasts one to two weeks on the skin.

Total time  under 2 min
Lasts  2–3 weeks
No needles.  No procedure.

Five steps.
Two minutes.

Follow in order for the cleanest transfer.

Clean your skin
01 Prepare

Clean
your skin.

Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water, then pat it completely dry with a clean cloth. This step is critical — any oil, lotion, sunscreen, sweat, or moisturiser on your skin creates an invisible barrier that prevents the ink from bonding. If you've just applied body lotion, wait at least 30 minutes before applying. Freshly exfoliated skin gives the sharpest, longest-lasting transfer.

Freshly showered skin transfers best
Peel the film
02 Unpack

Peel the
clear film.

Your tattoo has two layers: a clear protective film on the front (ink side) and a white paper backing. Start by peeling off the clear film only — the paper backing stays on for now. Work slowly from one corner, holding the sheet by the very edge. If the design shifts or tears, lay it flat on a table before continuing. Once the film is removed, the ink surface is exposed and ready to transfer.

The ink side faces down onto your skin
Press face down
03 Position

Press
face-down.

Place the tattoo ink-side down on your chosen spot. Press from the centre outward using your fingertips to eliminate any air bubbles or creases — even small wrinkles will show in the final result. The inside of the wrist, forearm, shoulder, ankle, and collarbone are the most forgiving surfaces. For curved areas like the neck or ribs, stretch the skin slightly flat as you press. Once positioned, do not slide it — lift and reposition instead.

Curves and joints work fine — take it slow
Apply damp cloth
04 Transfer

Damp cloth,
30 seconds.

Soak a clean cloth, sponge, or folded paper towel in water and press it firmly over the paper backing. Hold steady with even pressure for a full 30 seconds — do not rub or slide. The moisture passes through the paper and activates the plant-based ink, bonding it to your skin. You'll notice the paper becoming translucent — a sign the transfer is working. For a sharper result, repeat with a second 30-second press on any edges that look lighter.

Use a sponge or folded wet paper towel
Peel and reveal
05 Reveal

Peel.
Wear.

Lift one corner of the paper backing slowly and peel at a very low angle — almost parallel to the skin, not straight up. Go slowly so you can catch any areas that haven't fully transferred. If the design starts lifting with the paper, press it back down and apply the damp cloth for another 10–15 seconds. Once fully peeled, leave the tattoo untouched for at least 5 minutes to set. Avoid clothing, touching, or water contact for the first 4 hours.

Allow 5 minutes to fully set before touching

Make it
last longer.

Small habits extend the life of your tattoo from days to weeks. Keep these in mind after applying.

First 4 hours

Avoid water.

Keep the tattoo dry for at least four hours after application. This allows the plant-based pigments to fully bond with the skin surface.

Ongoing

Go light on lotion.

Heavy moisturisers applied directly over the tattoo will accelerate fading. Apply lotion around the design, not over it, for the longest wear.

Removal

Fades naturally.

No removal needed. The tattoo fades gradually over 2–3 weeks as your skin renews. To remove early, apply baby oil and gently rub in circular motions.

Common
questions.

Everything you need to know before and after applying your Sabai tattoo.

How long will it actually last?

Most Sabai tattoos last 2–3 weeks depending on placement, skin type, and how well you care for them. High-friction areas (hands, feet, elbows) fade faster. Areas with less movement and less daily washing — like the upper arm, shoulder, or collar bone — tend to last the longest.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Yes. Our formula uses plant-based pigments with no synthetic dyes, no parabens, and no harsh chemicals. There are no needles and nothing penetrates the skin — the design sits on the surface only. We recommend doing a small patch test if you have very reactive skin, and avoiding application over broken or irritated skin.

Can I shower or swim with it?

Yes, after the first four hours. The tattoo is water-resistant once fully set — you can shower and swim normally. Prolonged soaking (long baths, hot tubs) or heavy scrubbing directly over the design will accelerate fading. Pat dry gently rather than rubbing after washing.

How do I remove it early?

Apply a small amount of baby oil or coconut oil directly over the design. Let it sit for 30 seconds, then gently rub in circular motions with a soft cloth. Repeat once or twice if needed. The tattoo will lift cleanly without irritating your skin.

What is it made of?

Sabai tattoos use 100% plant-based pigments that sit on the skin's surface rather than penetrating it. Our formula contains no synthetic dyes, no allergens, and no ingredients banned in cosmetic products in the EU or Thailand. We test every batch for skin safety before it ships.

Where on the body can I apply it?

Anywhere on the body with smooth, relatively flat skin works well. Popular spots are the wrist, inner arm, collarbone, ankle, shoulder, and ribcage. Avoid applying over hair, directly on the face, or over any skin that is broken or sunburned. High-movement joints are fine but will fade sooner.

Ready to
try one?

Pick your design. Apply in minutes. Change next week.

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