We’ve all heard the saying beauty is skin deep, but for many people, it literally is. Tattoos are art that has become just as much a part of people’s fashion and beauty regimen as mascara and foundation in some ways. Some celebs are seemingly addicted, inking themselves anywhere they can find free space.
For some, the tats are therapeutic—a way to express themselves and cope with the experiences they have throughout their lives. Some tats are weird, some are funny, some are philosophical, and some are just downright pretty. And in Hollywood, there’s no shortage. These Tinsel Town beauties sport their ink with pride—and we love them for it.
01
Jhene Aiko
The “Sativia” singer has a colorfully elaborate tattoo across her back, but it’s the nautical shoulder tat that takes the wheel as a standout.
02
Blac Chyna
Blac Chyna is usually in the headlines for her controversial relationship with the KarJenners, but her ornate tattoos, which she’s not at all afraid to show off, are truly worth talking about.
03
Monica
Monica has been pretty inked-up from a young age. One of her most interesting, and beautiful tats is a portrait of her daughter Laiyah, on the inside of her right arm.
04
Rihanna
Rihanna’s tattoos are like a status symbol of her bad girl persona, signifying that she can do anything and it will be dope. Her henna-like hand tattoo is truly dynamic, often making it into campaigns and red carpet photos.
05
Brandy
Singer Brandy was initially told that the elephant in her wrist tattoo was sporting an offensively oversized trunk. So she updated it to be more artfully elaborate, and less, ahem, phallic.
06
Kelis
Kelis is known for being a free spirit and a boss, so it’s no surprise that she sports a large tattoo that takes up an entire side of her back. The way the colors really pop on her beautiful honey-colored skin is what makes her ink so unique.
07
Hazel E
Hazel E may be a controversial reality show figure, but her tattoos are creative as hell. Love her or hate her, the beauty of her ink is easy to embrace.
08
H.E.R.
Some of the cutest tats are subtle. Musician H.E.R. has several small tattoos on her fingers, which, for a long time, had been seen more than her actual face.
09
FKA twigs
This elaborate temporary tattoo worn by FKA twigs stole the red carpet. It might not be permanently inked like the other ladies’, but it’s a great alternative if you want to try out a look before committing.
