25 Mind-Bending 3D Tattoos That Look Absolutely Insane

3D tattoos make for one mind-bending optical illusion as they seem to twist and bend on the wearer’s skin.

Tattoos have come a long way since the 18th century back when Captain James Cook first introduced it to Europe calling it a “tattaw.” But they go back centuries before that when mummies were tattooed in Egypt around 3351 and 3017 BCE.

They became modernly popular after Cook made three voyages to the South Pacific in the 1700s. Following those voyages, it’s believed he and members of his crew returned to England with tattoos. He even presented King George with two native men from the island who were tattooed and the first documented tattoo artist resided in Liverpool around the 1870s.

Tattoos then largely became associated with sailors in England. But a lot has changed since then. We’re sure the technology was much different and there was no such thing as a three-dimensional tattoo.

Now, in 2025, tattooing has reached super advanced and ingenious levels that now include 3D illusions. The style continues to evolve and you definitely want someone who has experience and knows what they’re doing before you go for one of these.

All of these below are actually pretty amazing. Enjoy!

3d tattoos