Tattoos are one of the most private forms of art. Each item is not only unique and distinctive to you, but it is also permanently inscribed on your body. As a result, it’s critical to look after them properly.
[RB]Tattoos, in principle, endure forever, but those who have them know that they fade with time. So, if you want your tattoo to last a long time and stay sharp, there are a few things to think about before having one.
Continue reading for professional tips from tattoo pros on how to make your ink last as long as possible.
Reduce sun exposure
[RB]Sun protection lowers your risk of skin cancer and protects your tattoo from fading too quickly. The sun is a big factor in the disintegration of all tattoo styles, according to the artists at Whitewater Tattoo in Easthampton, MA. “All pigment spreads slowly over time, and sun exposure can hasten the fading of a tattoo, whether it’s colored, black, or black and grey.”Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to maintain your tattoo appearing fresh. It also helps to conceal your tattoos while it’s sunny outside. Otherwise, keep your skin moisturized and apply sunscreen often.
Frequently moisturize
[RB]Your tattoos will seem more bright and healthy if your skin is well moisturized. “Cocoa butter is rich in beneficial fatty acids as well as Vitamins E and K,” says Tattoo Moisturizer of cocoa butter’s effectiveness in preventing tattoo aging. These are ingredients that help battle at least delay—the look of aging skin,” but you may use any moisturizer that you want for your skin type. So there are items like Mad Rabbit tattoo lotion, which contains vitamin C and E as well as rosehip oil, cocoa butter, Argan oil, and aloe. It’s up to you whether you believe in the marketing of tattoo-specific lotion, but the premise remains the same: hydration is crucial.
also read: Make Sure Your ‘Summer Feet’ Don’t Turn Into ‘Winter Feet’
Tattoos that are more exposed should be treated with particular caution
[RB]Some parts of the body are subjected to greater wear and tear than others, and because excessive exposure can shorten the life of a tattoo, these areas should be given special attention. As an example, Oxbow Tattoo suggests putting additional sunblock on the shoulders. Another region where tattoos fade faster than normal is on the fingers: “We use our hands often, therefore the twisting and pulling might increase the need for a retouch in some circumstances,” they say. A specific tattoo cream could be a worthwhile purchase in this instance.
Regularly interact with your tattoo artist
[RB]Your tattoo can last longer (or at least fade slower) if you limit sunlight exposure and keep your skin moisturized, but the lifetime of a tattoo starts with the design. “Tattoo ink has gone a long way,” adds Oxbow Tattoo, “and artists’ application abilities truly help tattoos stay vivid and attractive for many, many years.” If the duration of your tattoo is essential to you, discuss with the artist the design’s lifespan and the spot you want it created before getting inked.
Also, be practical about touch-ups, since they are the only “true” method to keep your tattoo appearing new over time, so be aware of the symptoms that your tattoo is due for one. “It’s time for a touch-up if your tattoo has lost its brightness in pigment and seems boring or lacks the hue that was initially inked,” explains Oxbow Tattoo. “You might get your tattoo retrofitted to get it looking amazing again if the black lines have extended excessively and are fuzzy, losing their crisp aspect.” So remain in touch with your tattoo artist—your tattoo is moving advertising for their work, and they’ll want it to stay as vibrant and beautiful as you.
