FAQ

CipherX support

General

What are Microdot Tattoos?
Microdot Tattoos are small, permanent tattoos delivered through ultra-fine, microscopic structures (smaller than 1 mm) designed to penetrate the upper layers of the skin and deposit pigment.
How are Microdot Tattoos different from traditional tattoos?
They are applied with a single-use patch in a stamp-like manner, rather than with a conventional tattoo machine. They are designed for minimal discomfort.
What are Microdots made of?
They are made of biodegradable materials that are commonly used in cosmetic products, combined with tattoo pigment.
How does the ink get into the skin?
Micro-structure features made from biodegradable materials and tattoo pigment enter the upper layers of the skin and deposit the pigment there.
Are these real, permanent tattoos?
Yes. While our application process is very different to conventional tattooing, the final product is a real, permanent tattoo.
What colours do you offer?
Currently we offer black tattoos only. Additional colours are in development.

Buying & redemption

How do I buy a Microdot Tattoo?
Purchase through the CipherX website and redeem in person with your QR code, or purchase directly on site.
Can I order Microdot Tattoos to my home?
Microdot Tattoos are only available during selected launches, releases or pop-up activations. Availability depends on the current CipherX rollout.
Do you ship Microdot Tattoos?
Not at the moment. They are currently redeemed and applied in person at CipherX pop-ups so we can offer a guided experience.
What is the QR code redemption process?
After purchase, customers receive a QR code to redeem their tattoo at a CipherX pop-up location, where trained staff apply it in person.
Where can I redeem and apply it?
It can only be redeemed and applied at official, approved CipherX pop-up locations.
Do I need an appointment?
It varies by location — some accept walk-ins while others require bookings. Check the pop-up details in advance.
Can I gift it?
Gifting may be available depending on the purchase and redemption format offered for specific pop-ups.

Designs

What tattoo designs are available?
Availability depends on current CipherX offerings and pop-up format, focused on small-scale designs suited to the Microdot Tattoo format.
How large can a tattoo be?
The current tattoo canvas is a 15 mm diameter circle. Tattoo designs need to fit onto the canvas.
Can I create my own tattoo design?
Custom options may be available through special releases. Standard purchases allow selection from the tattoo library only.
How precise can tattoo designs be?
Designs are made for precision, but not all designs translate equally. Simpler forms with minimal shading generally produce the clearest results.
Can I remove or modify a tattoo?
They are permanent tattoos; laser removal or cover-ups are options, the same as with conventional tattoos.

Application

How do I apply it?
Trained staff prepare the skin, align the tattoo, apply the patch with a specialised applicator, secure it, and remove it after the development time.
Can I apply it myself?
Currently, Microdot Tattoos can only be applied by trained CipherX staff as part of an in-person guided experience.
How long does the application take?
The hands-on application takes around 5 minutes and the patch stays in place for about 15 minutes. Allow around 25–30 minutes for the full guided experience.
When does the tattoo appear?
It is visible immediately after the patch is removed. It may appear faint at first but becomes more visible and darkens over the next 24–48 hours.
How long does healing take?
The tattoo usually becomes more visible over the first 24–48 hours. Mild redness or sensitivity may settle within hours.
What happens if the tattoo does not come out as expected?
Our team reviews this on a case-by-case basis and may offer a correction pathway in line with our touch-up policy.

Aftercare

What should I do after applying?
Apply petroleum jelly, avoid touching or soaking the area for 48 hours, avoid direct sun, and don't wear abrasive clothing over the area.
Can I shower or exercise?
Short showers are okay, but avoid prolonged water exposure for the first 48 hours. Be mindful of activities that irritate the area.
What should I avoid?
Avoid scratching, rubbing, soaking and direct sun exposure for at least 24 hours, as well as abrasive clothing or jewellery.
What if irritation occurs?
Avoid extra products. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist after 48 hours or worsen unexpectedly.

Safety & ingredients

Does it hurt?
They don't hurt when applied because they are extremely small and thin, penetrating only the uppermost layers of the skin.
Is it safe?
It is designed for safe, hygienic application by trained staff with eligibility guidance. Customers review a waiver before application.
Has it been tested?
It is supported by independent external and internal testing and a defined application process.
What materials are used in the patch and ink?
The patch contains polyvinyl alcohol, trehalose, cellulose gum, aqua, poloxamer 407 and other ingredients. The full list is available in the application instructions.
Can I have an allergic reaction?
Allergic reactions are possible. Don't use if you have known allergies or hypersensitivity to listed ingredients, nickel or chromium.
Is it hygienic and sterile?
Each Microdot Tattoo patch is treated with gamma irradiation for safe, hygienic application and is intended for single use only.
Can it damage my skin?
Temporary redness, tingling or mild irritation can occur. More serious reactions such as infection, allergy or scarring are very uncommon.
Is the tattoo ink ethically sourced?
Yes. We use tattoo ink that is ethically sourced and sterile, from suppliers who confirm compliance with applicable impurity limits.

Results & appearance

Will Microdot Tattoos appear pixelated?
No. Designs will blend into a continuous, precise tattoo over 24–48 hours.
Will it fade over time?
Like all tattoos, the appearance can change gradually over time. Some bleeding or fading may occur.
How sharp and detailed is the result?
Microdot Tattoos are designed for precise, small-scale designs. The result depends on the design, placement and skin characteristics.
What affects the final result?
Design, body location, skin condition, aftercare and individual healing response all influence outcomes.

Eligibility

Is there an age limit?
Microdot Tattoos are for adults aged 18+ only, and ID or age verification is required on site.
Who should not use it?
It is not for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, or those with certain skin conditions or a compromised immune system.
Can I use it on sensitive skin?
It depends on your skin and medical history. Review the ingredients and consult the team if you have allergies or skin conditions.
Can it be used anywhere on the body?
No. Excluded areas include the head, face, neck, hands, wrists, genitalia, elbows, anus, ankles and feet.
What about medical conditions?
Some conditions or medications may make you ineligible. Review the waiver and consult CipherX before application.

Orders & support

How can I check the status of my order?
A confirmation email is sent with the details, and a QR code email follows for tattoo orders to scan before application.
Can I apply multiple discounts to my order?
Only one discount code or promotion can be applied per order, unless stated otherwise.
Can I make changes to my order?
Contact support immediately. Changes cannot be guaranteed once processing begins.
Can I return or exchange?
Designs can be changed until application; once applied, the tattoo is non-returnable. Other products follow standard policies.
What if my product is damaged or items are missing?
Contact support immediately with your order number and photos where relevant.