A new version of the doll with stick-on tattoos has been launched to celebrate her 50th birthday.
The move is said to be in homage to trendy celebrities who sport body art such as Cheryl Cole, Victoria Beckham and Angelina Jolie.
Makers Mattel say the idea was to bring Barbie up to date but critics have claimed the doll will further encourage the sexualisation of young girls.
Ed Mayo, chief executive of the watchdog Consumer Focus, said parents 'will be dismayed' because their children might pester them to get tattoos themselves.
He said: "A multi-million pound industry is now targeting children and the cynic would say that Mattel is simply courting controversy in order to give Barbie more of an edge."
The stick on tattoos include a mix of hearts, flowers, stars, rabbits, butterflies and a Barbie silhouette as well as a heart with 'Ken' inside it. Proper chavvy.
