A woman in Switzerland has captured global attention after revealing her Red Bull barcode tattoo that reportedly functions at retail self-checkouts. The content creator, known online as @mycringe.s–t and identified as Dew, said she had long considered getting a barcode tattoo, eventually settling on a design inspired by her favorite energy drink.
In a viral TikTok video that has garnered over 7.9 million views, Dew scans her arm at a self-checkout terminal, successfully ringing up a 250ml can of Red Bull. The video shows her celebrating as the machine recognizes the code from what she calls her “red bull barcode tattoo.”
“I was thinking about getting a barcode tattoo for some time,” Dew told Jam Press. Initially considering a humorous design like broccoli, she opted for Red Bull instead, saying it aligned more with her personality and energy. The final tattoo includes a creative twist—an illustrated worm, based on artwork by her sister, appears to be eating the barcode.
The unique ink cost Dew over $600. She admitted that even her tattoo artist was skeptical the barcode would scan properly. “I knew it possibly couldn’t work as my artist was very open about it,” she said. But after testing it at her workplace, she was shocked to find it functional.
The red bull barcode tattoo has not only become a hit with social media users but also received praise from Red Bull Germany, which called the artwork “Inkcredible.” However, some critics questioned the practicality of the design, noting that the barcode might change in the future. Dew brushed off such concerns, saying she wasn’t worried.
“For everyone wondering if my Red Bull barcode works, yes it does,” she confirmed in a follow-up Instagram post. The red bull barcode tattoo has since inspired others to consider similar designs, with comments ranging from admiration to skepticism.
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