How to help a tattoo last
A tattoo is for life, but how it looks in ten years depends a lot on how you treat it. Here is what helps.
Follow your artist's aftercare
Every artist gives aftercare steps for a fresh tattoo. Follow them. They know the work they did and how it should heal. If something looks or feels wrong while it heals, ask your artist or a doctor.
Keep it out of the sun
Sun is the biggest reason tattoos fade. Ultraviolet light breaks down ink over time, and bright colors go first. Cover a healing tattoo. Once it has healed, use a high-SPF sunscreen on it whenever it will be in the sun.
Keep the skin healthy
Ink sits in the skin, so healthy skin shows a tattoo best. A few habits help:
- Moisturize so the skin does not get dry and dull.
- Drink enough water.
- Do not pick or scratch at scabs while it heals.
- Avoid soaking a fresh tattoo in pools, baths or the sea until it has healed.
Watch for changes
Some fading is normal over the years. Lines can soften and colors can dull, especially on hands, feet and other places that rub or see a lot of sun. When a tattoo starts to look tired, it can often be brought back. Read signs a tattoo needs restoration.
Need a hand?
We offer tattoo restoration in Jasper, GA. Open 24/7, and the estimate is free.
More reading: signs a tattoo needs restoration and what to know before restoring an old item, or see all articles.