Introduction
Spooky tattoos are the perfect way to express a love for the eerie, the mysterious, and the macabre. These hauntingly beautiful designs go beyond Halloween—they’re a lifestyle, an aesthetic, and for many, a personal symbol of power, transformation, or connection to the darker side of life. Whether you’re drawn to gothic elements like skulls, bats, and ravens, or you prefer subtle symbols like crescent moons, black cats, or shadowy trees, spooky tattoos come in countless styles and sizes to suit your vibe.
The appeal of spooky ink lies in its versatility. You can go bold with a large horror-inspired sleeve featuring graveyards and ghosts, or keep it minimal with tiny spooky icons like candles or spiders. Many spooky tattoo lovers blend horror themes with gothic romance, witchy elements, or Victorian aesthetics for a timeless, storytelling effect.
This blog will guide you through the spooky tattoo world—from choosing the right design, to understanding placement, aftercare, and symbolism. Whether you’re getting your first tattoo or planning to add to a growing collection of haunting ink, you’ll find inspiration and tips to make sure your next tattoo is more “ethereal art” than just skin-deep spookiness.
How to Choose the Right Spooky Tattoo
Choosing the right spooky tattoo begins with understanding what “spooky” means to you. Is it eerie and atmospheric? Playfully creepy? Gothic and symbolic? Horror-inspired? The style and meaning behind your tattoo should reflect your personal connection to all things spooky—whether it’s rooted in your love for Halloween, horror films, witchcraft, or nature’s darker elements.
1. Define Your Spooky Aesthetic
Spooky tattoos come in a range of styles:
- Traditional spooky: Think black cats, jack-o’-lanterns, bats, and ghosts with bold lines and classic flash art style.
- Gothic: Includes ravens, crosses, castles, crows, stained glass, and baroque detailing.
- Witchy/Occult: Moons, crystals, tarot cards, snakes, and spell-related symbols.
- Horror-themed: Inspired by movies, folklore, or classic monsters like vampires, werewolves, and zombies.
- Spooky cute: Ghosts with smiles, cartoon bats, or pastel horror-themed tattoos.
Knowing your aesthetic helps narrow down your design choices.
2. Symbolism and Meaning
While spooky tattoos can be fun and expressive, many carry deep personal symbolism. A crow may represent transformation or intelligence, while a skeleton might symbolize mortality or a reminder to live fully. Tarot cards like “The Death” or “The Moon” can reflect personal beliefs or experiences.
Don’t be afraid to explore what each spooky element means to you. Even traditionally scary images can carry empowering messages.
3. Consider Size and Detail
Decide how bold or subtle you want your tattoo to be. A full haunted landscape sleeve offers plenty of storytelling room, while a small ghost on your wrist can be both adorable and meaningful. Highly detailed tattoos—like graveyard scenes or realistic portraits—require more time and space, while simple silhouettes or line art can be placed almost anywhere.
4. Find the Right Artist
Look for tattoo artists who specialize in spooky, gothic, or horror themes. Check portfolios for line quality, shading, and their interpretation of spooky designs. If you want something custom, bring reference photos and explain your vision clearly.
Ultimately, the right spooky tattoo is one that feels like a part of you—whether it’s chilling, mysterious, cute, or symbolic.
Tattoo Placement Guide for Spooky Tattoos
Tattoo placement can enhance the spookiness of your design or transform it into something subtly haunting. Whether you want an in-your-face sleeve or a hidden witchy symbol, placement plays a big role in how your spooky tattoo looks and feels.
1. Common Spooky Tattoo Placements
- Forearm: Perfect for visible spooky art like gravestones, Ouija boards, and witches. This space allows for detailed work and is easy to show off.
- Upper Arm/Shoulder: Ideal for medium-to-large spooky pieces like haunted houses, full moons, or bats in flight. Works well for building a themed sleeve.
- Back: Large canvas perfect for elaborate horror scenes or symmetrical gothic designs like wings or a central skull.
- Thigh: Popular for feminine spooky tattoos—think black cats, daggers, or spooky pin-up girls. Allows for larger pieces with curves.
- Chest or Sternum: Great for symmetrical tattoos like spiderwebs, moths, or crescent moons. Sternum tattoos can be bold yet intimate.
- Neck or Behind Ear: Best for minimal designs—like small bats, crosses, or tiny ghosts—for a subtle spooky vibe.
- Hands and Fingers: Often used for witchy symbols like stars, moons, or skeleton hands. Keep in mind, these fade quicker due to friction.
2. Consider Visibility and Lifestyle
Spooky tattoos can be highly visible or discreet. If you work in a conservative environment, areas like the ribcage, upper thigh, or back might be better suited. However, if you’re proud to wear your spooky heart on your sleeve (literally), arms and legs are great choices.
3. Plan for a Themed Collection
Many people get hooked on spooky ink and build themed sleeves or patchwork collections. If that’s your plan, leave enough space between tattoos for future additions or connect them with filler elements like spiderwebs, stars, or shadowy backgrounds.
4. Balance and Flow
If you’re combining multiple spooky symbols, consider how they flow together. A chaotic haunted house might look amazing wrapping around your forearm, while a central coffin piece might sit better on your thigh or back. Ask your artist to map it out on your body before the needle hits skin.
1. Haunted House
A haunted house tattoo is a classic spooky design that evokes feelings of fear and mystery. Typically depicted with broken windows, overgrown vines, and a dark, looming presence, the haunted house symbolizes the unknown and the eerie past. Often, the tattoo includes details like bats flying around, ghostly figures in the windows, or a full moon in the background.
This tattoo can represent a fascination with the supernatural, haunted places, or the stories and secrets that old buildings hold. It’s a design that appeals to those who love horror and the thrill of being scared. The haunted house is also a reminder of facing one’s fears and exploring the unknown, making it a powerful and evocative tattoo choice.
2. Creepy Clown
A creepy clown tattoo is a chilling design that plays on the common fear of clowns, also known as coulrophobia. These tattoos often feature exaggerated, sinister facial expressions, sharp teeth, and unsettling eyes that make the clown appear more monstrous than entertaining.
The eerie smile, often accompanied by dark or smeared makeup, enhances the sense of unease. This tattoo is perfect for horror enthusiasts or those who enjoy exploring the darker side of traditional childhood icons. A creepy clown tattoo can symbolize the idea that not everything is as it seems and that even the most innocent-looking things can have a dark side. It’s a bold statement piece that captures the unsettling blend of horror and innocence.
3. Black Cat with Glowing Eyes
A black cat with glowing eyes tattoo is a classic symbol of mystery and superstition. Black cats are often associated with witches, magic, and the supernatural, making them a popular choice for those who love spooky themes. The glowing eyes add an eerie, otherworldly element to the design, suggesting that the cat has a mystical or magical presence.
This tattoo can represent a connection to the mystical, the unknown, and the protective power often attributed to black cats. It’s an ideal design for those who appreciate the blend of beauty and darkness and want a tattoo that conveys both elegance and a hint of danger.
4. Witch on a Broomstick
A witch on a broomstick tattoo is an iconic image that embodies the spirit of Halloween and the supernatural. The design often depicts the witch flying across a moonlit sky, her silhouette outlined against a full moon, creating a sense of motion and mystery.
This tattoo can represent the power of magic, independence, and the embrace of one’s inner strength. Witches are often seen as symbols of feminine power and rebellion, making this design a popular choice for those who identify with these themes. It’s also a tribute to the long history of witchcraft and the cultural fascination with witches as figures who operate outside of societal norms.
5. Skull with Roses
A skull with roses tattoo is a powerful combination of life and death imagery. The skull, a symbol of mortality, is contrasted with the vibrant roses, which represent life, beauty, and love. This tattoo can symbolize the balance between life and death, the fleeting nature of existence, and the beauty that can be found even in darkness.
The design often includes detailed shading and intricate patterns, making it both a visually striking and deeply symbolic piece. It’s a popular choice for those who embrace the darker aspects of life and want a tattoo that reflects the complex interplay between life’s fragility and its moments of beauty.
6. Vampire Bite
A vampire bite tattoo is a subtle yet spooky design that evokes the allure and danger of vampire lore. Typically, the tattoo features two small puncture marks, sometimes with a trickle of blood, on the neck or wrist, mimicking the classic imagery of a vampire feeding.
This design can symbolize the seductive and mysterious nature of vampires, as well as themes of immortality, forbidden desires, and the darker side of romance. It’s a perfect tattoo for those who are fans of vampire stories or who want a design that is both minimalist and deeply evocative. The vampire bite is a reminder of the thin line between desire and danger.
7. Full Moon with Bats
A full moon with bats tattoo captures the eerie beauty of a night scene often associated with Halloween and the supernatural. The full moon, shining brightly against a dark sky, is surrounded by silhouettes of bats in flight, creating a dynamic and atmospheric design.
This tattoo can represent a connection to the night, mystery, and the creatures that thrive in darkness. It’s a popular choice for those who feel a kinship with the night or who appreciate the classic imagery of horror and gothic themes. The full moon and bats together symbolize the balance between light and dark, and the ever-present mystery that night brings.
8. Grim Reaper
The Grim Reaper tattoo is a chilling representation of death, often depicted as a hooded figure carrying a scythe. This iconic image serves as a reminder of mortality and the inevitability of death. The Grim Reaper can be shown in various styles, from realistic to stylized or abstract, each conveying a different tone.
This tattoo might symbolize a person’s acceptance of the cycle of life and death, or it could represent a fascination with the macabre. It’s a powerful and thought-provoking design that appeals to those who embrace life’s darker aspects and the mysteries that lie beyond.
9. Spider and Web
A spider and web tattoo is a classic spooky design that represents both the beauty and the danger of the natural world. The spider, often depicted in a detailed and realistic style, is shown in or near its intricate web. This tattoo can symbolize patience, creativity, and the idea of weaving one’s fate.
On a darker level, it also represents entrapment and the lurking dangers that life can present. This design is perfect for those who appreciate the artistry of the natural world, as well as the darker, more gothic aspects of spider symbolism. It’s both a beautiful and eerie design that captures the essence of suspense and mystery.
10. Jack-o’-Lantern
A jack-o’-lantern tattoo is a quintessential Halloween image that brings to mind the spooky fun of the holiday. The design typically features a carved pumpkin with a glowing face, often depicted with a sinister or playful expression. This tattoo symbolizes the spirit of Halloween, the tradition of warding off evil spirits, and the joy of the season.
It’s a design that can be both fun and eerie, making it a great choice for those who love Halloween and want to carry a piece of the holiday with them year-round. The jack-o’-lantern tattoo is a reminder of the magic, mystery, and light-hearted spookiness of the Halloween season
11. Raven
A raven tattoo is a dark and mysterious design often associated with death, prophecy, and the unknown. Ravens are frequently depicted in literature and mythology as messengers of the otherworld, symbolizing the connection between life and death.
This tattoo can be shown perched, in flight, or with other elements like skulls or moons, enhancing its spooky and mystical vibe. It’s a design that appeals to those who appreciate gothic themes, the mystery of the unknown, and the power of symbolism. The raven tattoo is a striking piece that conveys wisdom, darkness, and the eerie beauty of the supernatural.
12. Coffin
A coffin tattoo is a stark and somber design that directly represents death and the finality of life. Often depicted with detailed wood grain, nails, or even a cross on top, this tattoo can be simple or elaborately decorated. Some designs include elements like flowers, skulls, or the Grim Reaper to enhance the spooky theme.
The coffin tattoo can symbolize a person’s acceptance of mortality, the inevitability of death, or a fascination with the macabre. It’s a bold statement piece that serves as a reminder of life’s impermanence and the mysteries of the afterlife.
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13. With’s Cauldron
A witch’s cauldron tattoo is a classic symbol of magic, mystery, and the occult. The cauldron is often depicted bubbling over with a magical brew, sometimes accompanied by other elements like a broomstick, potion bottles, or mystical symbols.
This tattoo can represent the power of transformation, creativity, and the embrace of one’s inner witch. It’s a design that appeals to those who are drawn to the magical arts, the supernatural, or the cultural imagery of witches. The cauldron tattoo is both a celebration of magic and a reminder of the mysteries that lie just beyond the veil of the ordinary.
14. Zombie
A zombie tattoo is a gruesome and thrilling design that plays on the fear of the undead. Typically depicted with decaying flesh, exposed bones, and hollow eyes, the zombie is a powerful symbol of death, horror, and the idea of life after death.
This tattoo can represent a fascination with horror movies, survival themes, or the concept of the walking dead. It’s a bold and unsettling design that appeals to those who enjoy exploring the darker side of humanity and the fear of the unknown. The zombie tattoo is a perfect choice for horror enthusiasts and those who embrace the macabre.
15. Gargoyle
A gargoyle tattoo is a powerful and protective design that evokes the ancient stone creatures often found on gothic cathedrals. Gargoyles are traditionally seen as guardians that ward off evil spirits, making them a symbol of protection and strength. This tattoo can be depicted in various styles, from realistic stone textures to more stylized, monstrous forms.
It’s a design that appeals to those who appreciate gothic architecture, mythology, and the idea of having a guardian watching over them. The gargoyle tattoo is both a fierce and protective symbol, perfect for those who want a tattoo with a strong, ancient presence.
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16. Evil Eye
An evil eye tattoo is a protective symbol designed to ward off negative energy and harmful intentions. The evil eye is often depicted as a stylized eye, sometimes with rays or patterns around it to enhance its protective power.
This tattoo can be a simple, small design or part of a larger, more intricate piece. It’s a popular choice for those who believe in the power of symbols and want to carry a protective charm with them. The evil eye tattoo is both a spiritual and cultural icon, representing the desire for protection and the deflection of negative forces.
17. Headless Horseman
The Headless Horseman tattoo is a thrilling and eerie design inspired by the classic tale of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” The tattoo typically depicts the horseman riding a powerful, galloping horse, holding a glowing jack-o’-lantern where his head should be.
This tattoo symbolizes fear, the supernatural, and the pursuit of vengeance. It’s a design that appeals to fans of gothic literature, Halloween, and the darker aspects of folklore. The Headless Horseman tattoo is a dynamic and powerful image, perfect for those who appreciate the thrill of ghost stories and the timeless appeal of spooky tales.
18. Blood Moon
A blood moon tattoo is a striking and mystical design that captures the eerie beauty of a lunar eclipse. The moon, often depicted in shades of red and orange, represents the powerful and unsettling phenomenon that occurs when the Earth casts its shadow over the moon.
This tattoo can symbolize change, transformation, and the connection between the natural world and the supernatural. It’s a design that appeals to those who are fascinated by celestial events, the mysteries of the universe, and the symbolic power of the moon. The blood moon tattoo is both beautiful and eerie, capturing the essence of a rare and magical event.
19. Cemetery Scene
A cemetery scene tattoo is a haunting and atmospheric design that captures the eerie stillness of a graveyard at night. This tattoo often includes elements like tombstones, bare trees, and a full moon, creating a spooky and somber mood.
The cemetery scene can symbolize death, loss, and the passage of time, making it a powerful and reflective tattoo. It’s a design that appeals to those who are drawn to the gothic aesthetic, the mystery of the afterlife, and the beauty that can be found in dark places. The cemetery scene tattoo is a poignant and evocative piece that speaks to the inevitability of life’s end.
20. Haunted Mirror
A haunted mirror tattoo is a chilling design that plays on the idea of seeing something otherworldly in a reflection. The mirror, often depicted with an ornate frame, may show a ghostly figure, a skull, or a pair of glowing eyes staring back.
This tattoo can symbolize the idea of facing one’s fears, confronting the unknown, or the belief that mirrors can serve as portals to other dimensions. It’s a design that appeals to those who love spooky stories, haunted houses, and the thrill of the unknown. The haunted mirror tattoo is a reminder that sometimes, the scariest things are those that we can’t fully understand.
21. Vampire Bat
A vampire bat tattoo is a dark and intriguing design that captures the essence of these nocturnal creatures. Often depicted with outstretched wings, sharp fangs, and glowing eyes, the vampire bat symbolizes fear, mystery, and the supernatural.
This tattoo can represent a fascination with vampires, the allure of the night, or the idea of transformation. It’s a popular choice for those who enjoy gothic themes, horror stories, and the darker side of nature. The vampire bat tattoo is both spooky and stylish, making it a great design for anyone who wants to embrace the mysterious and the macabre.
22. Creepy Doll
A creepy doll tattoo is an unsettling design that plays on the fear of dolls coming to life. The doll, often depicted with cracked porcelain skin, empty eyes, and a twisted smile, embodies the eerie concept of inanimate objects possessing a life of their own.
This tattoo can symbolize childhood fears, the uncanny, and the dark side of innocence. It’s a design that appeals to those who love horror movies, creepy stories, and the thrill of the unknown. The creepy doll tattoo is both disturbing and captivating, making it a perfect choice for those who want a tattoo that evokes a sense of unease.
23. Ouija Board
An Ouija board tattoo is a mystical and spooky design that captures the essence of communicating with the other side. The tattoo often includes the planchette and letters of the board, sometimes with ghostly hands or spirits emerging from it. This tattoo can symbolize a connection to the supernatural, curiosity about the afterlife, or a love for occult practices.
It’s a design that appeals to those who are fascinated by the idea of contacting spirits, exploring the unknown, and the thrill of dabbling in the mystical arts. The Ouija board tattoo is a powerful and evocative piece that represents the fine line between the living and the dead.
24. Eerie Forest
An eerie forest tattoo is a haunting design that captures the dark, mysterious atmosphere of a forest at night. The tattoo often features tall, shadowy trees, twisted branches, and a foggy or moonlit background, creating a sense of foreboding and suspense.
This tattoo can symbolize the unknown, the fear of getting lost, or the idea of facing one’s deepest fears. It’s a design that appeals to those who love the wilderness, the thrill of exploring dark places, and the gothic beauty of nature. The eerie forest tattoo is both spooky and beautiful, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate the darker side of the natural world.
25. Phantom Hands
Phantom hands tattoo is a spine-chilling design that features ghostly, disembodied hands reaching out from the shadows. The hands, often depicted in a skeletal or translucent form, create a sense of being pulled into the unknown or the grasp of something otherworldly.
This tattoo can symbolize fear, the supernatural, or the feeling of being haunted by past experiences or unresolved issues. It’s a design that appeals to those who enjoy exploring themes of horror, the afterlife, and the unseen forces that might influence our lives. The phantom hands tattoo is both eerie and symbolic, making it a striking and thought-provoking piece.
Tattoo Aftercare Tips for Spooky Tattoos
Aftercare is essential for preserving your spooky tattoo’s sharp lines and deep blacks—especially since these designs often use heavy contrast and fine detail. Here’s how to keep your creepy ink looking fresh and flawless:
1. Clean Gently and Moisturize
For the first few days, wash your tattoo gently with fragrance-free soap and warm water. Avoid scrubbing. Pat it dry with a clean towel. Then apply a light layer of a tattoo-safe moisturizer (like Aquaphor or Hustle Butter). This keeps the area hydrated and reduces the chance of scabbing.
2. Protect from the Sun
Spooky tattoos often rely on dark ink, which fades faster with sun exposure. Once healed, always use SPF 30+ on exposed tattoos. During healing, keep the area covered when outdoors.
3. Hands Off the Scabs
If your tattoo starts to scab or peel, resist the urge to pick or scratch. Let it heal naturally. Picking at scabs can remove ink and blur lines—especially harmful for detailed spooky tattoos with fine lines and shading.
4. Avoid Swimming or Soaking
Don’t soak your new tattoo in baths, pools, or hot tubs for at least 2–3 weeks. Water exposure can increase infection risk and disrupt healing.
5. Wear Loose Clothing
Avoid tight clothing over your tattoo during healing, especially in high-friction areas like thighs or arms. Loose, breathable fabrics help your skin heal without irritation.
By following these steps, your spooky tattoo will stay sharp, bold, and bewitching for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Spooky tattoos are more than just a Halloween trend—they’re powerful, personal symbols that celebrate the mysterious, the magical, and the macabre. Whether you’re drawn to horror motifs, witchy symbols, or gothic elegance, spooky tattoos allow you to wear your dark side with pride.
From eerie forearm designs to subtle crescent moons behind the ear, these tattoos can be as bold or as delicate as you want. The key is choosing designs that resonate with your personality and values—whether that’s your love for horror films, your fascination with the supernatural, or simply a love of the aesthetic.
Remember, placement and aftercare matter just as much as the design itself. Take your time planning your tattoo, work with an artist who understands your vision, and be patient throughout the healing process.
Ultimately, spooky tattoos are timeless. They capture emotion, story, and soul in ways that are both meaningful and visually unforgettable. Whether you want a tattoo that terrifies or one that whispers mystery, let your spooky ink be a reflection of the depth and darkness that makes you unique.
FAQs About Spooky Tattoos
1. Are spooky tattoos only for Halloween lovers?
Not at all! While spooky tattoos often feature imagery tied to Halloween—like pumpkins, ghosts, and bats—they go far beyond seasonal trends. These tattoos represent a deeper connection to themes like transformation, mystery, mortality, and the unseen world. People choose spooky designs for many reasons: an appreciation for gothic or horror aesthetics, personal symbolism, or simply because they love eerie and unconventional art.
Many spooky tattoos also draw inspiration from folklore, myth, witchcraft, and the occult—making them meaningful to spiritual practitioners and those interested in the mystical. For example, a raven might symbolize wisdom and death, while a skeleton hand could be a memento mori—a reminder of life’s impermanence.
So whether you’re a horror movie junkie, practicing witch, or just someone with a love for the strange and unusual, spooky tattoos can be an empowering form of self-expression. They’re wearable art that reflect a unique personality—365 days a year, not just in October.
2. Do spooky tattoos fade faster than other types of tattoos?
Spooky tattoos don’t necessarily fade faster than other styles, but their heavy use of black ink and fine details means placement and aftercare matter more. Dark ink holds up well over time, but it’s prone to fading if exposed to direct sunlight. Since spooky tattoos often rely on bold contrast and intricate lines, even slight fading can affect how sharp or dramatic they look.
To maintain your tattoo’s clarity:
- Apply SPF regularly once healed.
- Avoid tanning and long sun exposure.
- Use high-quality ink and choose a skilled artist.
- Follow aftercare instructions precisely during the healing phase.
Tattoos on high-friction areas—like fingers, hands, or ankles—may blur or fade faster due to constant movement and exposure. On the other hand, spooky tattoos placed on areas like the upper arm, thigh, or back tend to last longer.
If you’re worried about longevity, talk with your tattoo artist about placements and styles that age gracefully. Touch-ups are always an option years down the line, but with good care, your spooky tattoo will remain dark, crisp, and hauntingly beautiful for years.
3. Can spooky tattoos still be cute or feminine?
Absolutely! Spooky doesn’t have to mean scary or grotesque—it can be whimsical, delicate, and even adorable. Many people choose “spooky cute” tattoo designs that blend eerie symbols with soft, playful art styles. Think ghost bunnies, pastel skulls, bat-winged hearts, or smiling pumpkins in kawaii style. These tattoos let you celebrate your spooky side with a lighter, more charming aesthetic.
Feminine spooky tattoos often include:
- Black cats with floral accents
- Crescent moons surrounded by sparkles
- Witchy elements like potion bottles or tarot cards
- Victorian or art nouveau style skeletons
- Cute ghosts or haunted houses with smiling faces
You can also add feminine touches by choosing softer shading, finer line work, or pastel colors instead of harsh blacks. Placement matters too—behind the ear, sternum, wrist, or ankle are popular spots for small, dainty spooky designs.
Spooky tattoos are incredibly versatile, and there’s no one-size-fits-all. Whether you lean gothic-glam or spooky-sweet, you can create something that perfectly matches your vibe while still embracing that love for the mysterious and macabre.
4. Are spooky tattoos considered unprofessional in the workplace?
Workplace tattoo policies vary greatly depending on the industry, company culture, and your tattoo’s visibility. In more conservative fields (like finance or law), visible spooky tattoos—especially those featuring skulls, horror imagery, or occult symbols—might still raise eyebrows. However, many modern workplaces, particularly in creative, tech, or wellness industries, are more accepting of visible tattoos of any style.
If you’re concerned about professionalism:
- Choose placements that can be easily covered by clothing (upper arm, thigh, back).
- Opt for subtle spooky designs (e.g., a small bat, moon, or candle) that are less likely to attract negative attention.
- Consider incorporating spooky elements into a more abstract or artistic style for a less literal look.
Ultimately, society’s views on tattoos are shifting, and many employers now prioritize skills, personality, and work ethic over body art. If spooky tattoos reflect who you are and you carry them with confidence, they can even be conversation starters in the right settings.
Still, it’s a good idea to assess your work environment or future career goals before committing to visible spooky ink—especially on hands, neck, or face.