Top 89 Face Tattoo Ideas - [2020 Inspiration Guide]

Face tattoos are the finest frontier in modern ink culture, and the trend is constantly being elevated to new levels of slick machismo. 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.

Face Tattoo FAQs

What are the pros of face tattoos?

There are some definite advantages to face tattoos that some may overlook. If you have any embarrassing scars or other marks on your face, a face tattoo is a good way to cover these blemishes up. This also includes coverage for any birthmarks or other marks you feel may be unsightly.

Face tattoos are also a great means of self expression. It is one aspect that no one else has a say about because it is your body and your decision to make. Expressing yourself through tattoos is a positive way to stretch your artistic creativity, express your personality, and represent something you believe in.

If you choose to get a face tattoo, you will find that it is much less painful than ever before. They also have the tendency to heal much faster these days as well. Due to several advancements in technology, the process has become much less painful and has a significantly reduced risk of infection.

What are the cons of face tattoos?

You should keep in mind a few of the risks that may come along with a face tattoo. For example, some workplaces may be against facial tattoos of any kind. So, before taking the plunge, you want to check with your employer to see what the rules and guidelines are regarding this kind of expression.

Infection may be a reduced risk, but it is still a risk that will always be there. However, tattooing is a safe process, and there are strict standards that tattoo artists need to adhere to. When the artist follows these best practices, there will be less of a chance of developing an infection.

Another risk to consider is how the face tattoo may look down the line. Some of them won’t last forever, and if they do last, they may not look like they did when you first got them. In the same respect, there is also the chance that you won’t get the desired results.

With all that being said, it also needs to be mentioned that not everyone should get a tattoo. If you are someone with sensitive skin or you have high blood sugar, high blood pressure, or any other skin conditions, then you may want to avoid face tattoos.

How do I care for a new face tattoo?

Approximately 24 hours after you get tattooed, you will want to remove any bandage or wrapping that was used to cover it. You can then gently wash the area with an antimicrobial soap and water and then gently pat the skin dry.

Once clean, apply a thin layer of antibacterial ointment to your tattooed face at least twice per day. Refrain from putting on another bandage. Make sure to keep the area clean and dry throughout the day.

Can a face tattoo be removed with laser treatment?

One of the most asked questions is if face tattoo removal is a possibility. Yes, it is possible, but it may prove to be a long, painful, and expensive road. Even after face tattoo removal, there can still be scarring left behind.

A temporary face tattoo is an ideal way to test out a design, the size of the tattoo, the placement, the colors, and more before you commit to the real deal. A temporary face tattoo will typically last between three to seven days. Henna is a temporary solution, for example, and will last two to four weeks.

Did you enjoy these face tattoo examples but are looking for more inspiration? Click on the links below for more gallery examples depicting extremities ink: