Benjamin Lloyd's Airbrushed Tattoos Boost Hospitalized Kids' Confidence

New Zealand-based artist Benjamin Lloyd creates realistic temporary tattoos for children in hospitals using non-toxic, washable ink. The project began in 2016 when a Facebook post promising to visit Starship Children's Hospital in Auckland if it reached 50 likes went viral, garnering over 400,000 likes. Lloyd kept his word and has continued airbrushing custom designs on young patients for nearly a decade. His motivation stems from a childhood experience where he covered a burn scar on his arm with drawings to feel more confident. With support from hospitals and local communities, Lloyd's tattoos help children feel more like themselves during treatment. The non-toxic ink washes away with water, but Lloyd notes that kids often don't want to shower afterward. He shares his work on Instagram under the handle @benjamin_lloyd_returns.