Top 89 Face Tattoo Ideas – [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Face tattoos are the finest frontier in modern ink culture, and the trend is constantly being elevated to new levels of slick popularity. There are literally no limits when it comes to sporting facial firepower.

By acquiring a face tattoo, any man can gain membership to today’s prestigious club of body art masters.

These eye-catching insignias will instantly craft an elite reputation that will be noticed by everyone.

Subtlety is often a cornerstone of face tattoos, but the focus on disguised imagery is being eschewed in favor of bombastic decadence. A full-on display will always win against a minor logo.

Names are a recurring foundation for facial ink, but tribal imprints are definitely taking over as the most popular concept. In essence, many of these designs are direct tributes to the likes of Mike Tyson.

In the past, these iterations of body art were once considered taboo; thankfully, the societal fondness of face tattoos has finally ripened, so they are privy to full-on acceptance in most social circles.

There is nothing sexier than a classic emblazonment on the face, so enjoy this stunning ensemble of face tattoos to directly realize the shrewdness that is engendered by this type of visionary pursuit.

1. Geometric Face Tattoos

A growing trend in the tattoo world uses the balanced nature of geometric designs as inspiration and as these pieces demonstrate face tattoos are not exempt from the appeal of these stunning designs. Geometric designs are not only visually stimulating: a deep significance is attributed to many of these shapes and patterns, especially designs that draw from the mystic tradition of Sacred Geometry.  

2. Tribal Face Tattoos

Tribal tattoos have a long history of being applied to the face. In the Samoan and Maori cultures, the swirling designs and layered patterns are applied to the face and used as part of rites of passages and rituals within the community.  

In modern times, tribal designs have become popular choices for face tattoos thanks to certain heavy weight celebrities sporting this wild ink. These pieces show off numerous different tribal styles and demonstrate just how striking these designs can be when applied to the face.  

3. Colorful Face Tattoos

For some people the only way to accurately represent their taste and sensibilities is through use of vibrant colors, and the dramatic effect of these full color designs is even more exciting when applied to the face. From simplified pieces that use a few, well placed lines, to the bright colors and illustrative approach of new school designs, for those with bright a personality full color is a great choice for face tattoos. 

4. Lettered Face Tattoos

Letters have been common elements in tattoos for decades; it makes sense that eventually people would get them inked on their faces as well. These pieces use highly stylized scripts to create striking tattoos that are guaranteed to turn heads for years to come. 

5. Dotwork Face Tattoos

Another trend that is gaining popularity in the tattoo world uses a meticulous application of fine dots to create depth and texture in tattoos. One reason that so many people are choosing to utilize stipple work recently is the versatility of this approach: everything from geometric designs to illustrative approaches can take advantage of this nuanced technique. These are great examples of dot work successfully incorporated into face tattoos.  

6. Small Face Tattoos

For some people there is nothing more appealing than a subtle piece of ink that will elicit double takes from passersby on the street. 

One of the original face tattoos comes from the Chicano tradition and is three simple dots arranged in a triangle. This tiny symbol is a commemoration to “mi vida loca”, or “my crazy life”. While this is not the only small tattoo worn on the face, it is one of the originals and provides inspiration for the placement of more complex tattoos.  

7. Large Scale Face Tattoos

While many people prefer a more subtle approach, others like their tattoos big and bold, even if they are on the face. Out of all the locations for large tattoos the face is absolutely the most dramatic. Whether American traditional, new school animation, or Japanese traditional these large, face tattoos are sure to draw gasps and slack jaws from everyone that sees them.  

8. Floral Face Tattoos

People continue to choose flowers as subjects for tattoos, and for good reason. The varieties of different species, colors and styles means that there is a flower out there for everyone and these excellent pieces demonstrate just how striking they look when applied to the face.  

9. Traditional Dagger Face Tattoos

The American traditional style has maintained its popularity thanks to its classic sensibility and the masculine design elements add to their appeal among men from any walk of life.

One of these elements that has continued to gain popularity is the dagger. Thanks to the variety of different styles of daggers as well as the long shape of these decorative knives they are an excellent choice for face tattoos. These pieces demonstrate just how well daggers can fit on the face. 

10. Spider Face Tattoos

Another tattoo element that has its roots in the American penal system, the spider has made its way into the mainstream in recent years. Spiders have deep symbolism attached to them and are often used to represent the darker elements of a person’s character as well as being powerful symbols of growth and change. These are great examples of how they can be successfully applied to the face.  

11. Arrow and Scythe Face Tattoos

Much like the dagger, arrows and scythes are popular choices for face tattoos thanks to their aggressive nature and their dynamic shape. These tattoos are great examples of how these masculine designs can perfectly utilize the natural lines of the face.  

12. Script Face Tattoos

Thanks to the ability to cut through metaphorical haze, script remains a common element in tattoos. From the names of loved ones to powerful words that represent an individual’s personality and priorities in life, script is a great choice for these permanently visible tattoos. 

13. Anchor Face Tattoos

Originally elements in American traditional tattooing, anchors have become equally popular among landlubbers the world over. Anchors are often used as symbols of different elements in life that provide the wearer with a foundation. Instantly recognizable, anchors are a great choice for face tattoos.