Research suggests that tattoos can result in potential health risks, such as allergic reactions or skin infections. What else you should know before getting a tattooĪ bit of planning can go a long way in preventing tattoos from fading - and keeping you safe from potential medical complications. It's also crucial to follow your tattoo artist's instructions for taking care of your skin, especially during the healing phase, which can last two or three weeks.Įven after the tattoo heals, moisturizing the tattooed area with an oil-based lotion every day can help it last longer by helping your skin retain its elasticity so the design doesn't stretch.Īnd for days when you're spending any time in the sun, wear sunscreen on the tattooed area - Shurman recommends at least SPF 15. "Tattoos can look great when someone first applies them, but I've seen them fade within a few weeks or months of application," he says. Shurman suggests asking the artist if you can see photos of tattoos that have already healed so you can be sure they were applied well. Read customer reviews and review an artist's portfolio of tattoos before making an appointment. That said, taking certain steps can help your design last longer.įirst, choose an experienced tattoo artist who will apply your tattoo properly. Shurman encourages people to be aware that their tattoo(s) eventually need a touch-up. So, if you have light skin and you choose a peach-toned tattoo, it may not be noticeable for long and the same goes for darker skin and brownish ink. Other changes in your skin, like stretching from weight gain or pregnancy, will also fade a tattoo, says New York-based dermatologist David Kim.Īnd the last thing to consider is the color: "Colors closer to your skin tone will appear to fade faster because there is less contrast," Shurman says. If a tattoo is applied correctly, a person's lifestyle can fade the design faster.įor example, spending a lot of time in the sun or wearing tight clothing that rubs regularly against the tattoo can fade it more quickly, Shurman says. "If an artist doesn't insert the ink deep enough, the tattoo may fade faster," says Nashville-based tattoo artist Dave Shurman. When you get a permanent tattoo, the artist is supposed to insert the ink into the inner layer of your skin, or the dermis. "Even a light exfoliation of the skin a day or two before your appointment can make the tattoo process a little easier for the tattooer," she says.Certain tattoos are designed to fade, but that's not what we're talking about here. If you want bonus points from your tattoo artist, drink plenty of water before your appointment, Zoeller suggests. Research shows that smoking can decrease collagen in your body, which makes your skin more elastic. Other healthy habits, like not smoking, can help, too. Sunscreen is always a good idea as well a good diet and water all go a long way," Zoeller says. "A good moisturizer is great for skin, tattooed or not. Healthy habits: It might seem surprising, but a well-rounded diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and water goes a long way to improve overall health, including keeping your skin healthy and hydrated.Stick with an artist that is an expert in the style you prefer, as well. If you are melanin-rich, look for photos of similar skin tones," says Zoeller. Choose an artist using sterile equipment to prevent infection, and one who has experience working with tattoos on your skin tone. Choose the right artist: The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate tattoo ink, so find an artist who uses high-quality ink applied properly to the skin, which will help the color last longer.However, a color tattoo done well should look great for a very long time." "Colors can fade, lighter colors especially. Style impacts fading too: "I do think if a tattoo has a black outline, it will age and hold its shape a little better than those without," Zoeller says.Areas like elbows, feet, hands and inside the upper arm are also high-friction areas, so color will fade in those areas faster. Tattoos on the palms of your hands, feet, shoulder blades or inner thighs may fade faster.
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