Future tattoo trends: Tattoos that respond to touch and color-changing tattoos

"In this Philips Design Probe, human body is explored as a platform for electronics and interactive skin technology.
Stimulated by touch, an Electronic Tattoo traverses across the landscape of body, navigated by desire."

Phillips design probes are developments of design ideas that may become significant consumer trends in the near future.  (This particular probe was led by self-styled "body architect" Lucy McRae, who also investigated the idea of a glowing, emotion-sensing garment.)  Although touch-sensitive tattoos are not yet available, there is significant research being put into a  nano tattoo ink that would change color- from purple to orange- based on glucose levels in order help diabetics monitor blood sugar levels. Results in mice have been described as "spectacular", but it's estimated that two more years of testing on humans will be required before it can be brought to market.

Currently available: black light tattoos

It seems likely that this color-changing aspect will eventually be adapted into tattoo ink that is used for body art. Research is also taking place on temperature-sensitive tattoos.

Tattoos that glow under black light are already available, as are sub-dermal LEDs. Phone maker Nokia has recently filed patents for a tattoo that vibrates to let you know your phone is ringing, and so is expected to bring the product to market shortly.

Tech-interactive tattoos, from simple scan-able bar codes, to QR tattoos that interact with cell phones and are programmable to link to considerably more information in the forms of text, a URL, or any other data are another fairly recent innovation. Body artists, like Karl Marc of Paris, with his creation of the worlds first animated tattoo, are experimenting with pushing the possibilities of this new form.




Phillips touch sensitive tattoo probe video

Even prosthetic legs are getting tattoo-like options.  Bespoke Innovations makes nontraditional custom prosthetic legs, some of which are based on clients existing tats, as well as being inspired by other meaningful personal items, such as a client's Harley motorcycle.

Tattoos without skin: Reproducing body art he had on his leg pre-amputation