Date of Award
Spring 6-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department/Program
Forensic Science
Language
English
First Advisor or Mentor
Thomas A. Kubic
Second Reader
Michelle Miranda
Third Advisor
Anna Duggar
Abstract
As tattoos rise in popularity, some marker manufacturers have created temporary tattoo markers so that children and adults can experience tattoos without the permanence of a regular tattoo. These new products are marketed explicitly as ‘temporary tattoo markers’ and intended for direct application to the skin. This research aims to scientifically evaluate the inks from these temporary tattoo markers to elucidate their physical and chemical properties using wet chemistry, visual examination, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV/Vis), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), attenuated total reflectance infrared spectroscopy (ATR-IR), thin layer chromatography (TLC), and diffuse reflectance infrared spectroscopy (DRIFTS) to analyze temporary tattoo markers and inks for inter- and intra-brand similarities and differences. The results from this study indicate that many markers could be differentiated from one another using TLC. The UV/Vis and FT-IR data provided additional discrimination and spectral characteristics that could be used to identify the colorants used within the samples. In addition to providing awareness about the use of markers to create temporary tattoos, the data and resultant spectra from this research could be used as an aid in forensic investigations.
Recommended Citation
Chasse, Daniel J. G. Jr, "Forensic Analysis of Temporary Tattoo Markers and Inks" (2026). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/jj_etds/385
