Unsplash | Sandrine L. Sarango

Body Painting Is The Temporary Alternative To Tattoos Taking Over Social Media

Don't get me wrong — I love the look of tattoos, but I know I will not be getting inked anytime in the near future... or ever.

I'm not thrilled by the idea of needles, and then there's the huge decision of choosing which design to get.

If you like body art, but don't think tattoos are for you, you might want to try body paint instead. The artistry is beautiful and, best of all, these designs are temporary!

Body painting isn't necessarily a new trend.

Pinterest | jadastockerr

If you ever went to a carnival as a kid, chances are that you got some face painting done. Body paint is like the adult version of that.

Images like this are being shared all over Instagram and Pinterest.

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With the rise in popularity of tattoos, it was only a matter of time before people sought out a less permanent option. With body paint, you can turn your body into a canvas and then wash it away.

Arms, hands, legs, and feet are all popular places for body paint.

Tumblr | colibrinoir

That's because these areas are easy to access if you plan on applying your own body paint. There are also tons of tutorials out there to help you master the designs.

The collarbone is another popular option.

Pinterest | skylarlynmarie

This area is very painful to tattoo, but you don't have to worry about that with body paint. How gorgeous is this delicate chain of flowers?

It also doesn't take much to make a beautiful design.

Pinterest | melissaaucoin7

This design is simply a series of rainbow stripes and then the outline of a palm tree done in black on top. It's so simple but creates a stunning effect.

Some of these designs are truly works of art.

Pinterest | sweet2bugs

I don't think I'd be skilled enough yet to pull this design off, but I would love to try it some day.

Did someone say, "Coachella"?

Pinterest | kassidiputhoff

With the summer music festival season just around the corner, I bet we're going to see a ton of pictures like this one. Body paint has officially replaced flower crowns as the new festival must-have.

How about a pair of cute koi?

Instagram | @artsypeach

Koi fish have been a popular tattoo design for decades, and now you can DIY your own version with body paint. They really are adorable, aren't they?

As someone who can't stand needles, I am here for this trend!

It'll be interesting to see how mainstream body painting becomes. It's stylish and creative so I am fully on board with this idea!