WHY DO TATTOOS FADE AND HOW TO KEEP THEM ALIVE

Why Do Tattoos Fade and How to Keep Them Alive

Tattoos, those intricate works of art etched onto our skin, hold a special place in our hearts and identities. However, as time passes, you may notice that your once vibrant and bold tattoo has started to lose its lustre. Fading is an inevitable reality that every tattoo enthusiast must face, but fear not! 

At TKTX, we supply tattoo numbing cream to people across the UK, but we also know a thing or two about preserving your art and also supply the ultimate survival kit, which includes products to maintain your tattoos for years to come. Understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon and taking proactive measures can help you keep your body art looking fresh and vibrant for years to come.

We have put together this article to discuss exactly why tattoos fade and the best ways to combat it.  

 

Understanding the science behind tattoo fading

To comprehend why tattoos fade, we must delve into the intricate process of how they are created. Tattoos are formed by injecting ink into the dermis, the second layer of skin, using a needle. The ink particles are trapped within the skin cells, creating the desired design. 

But, as our bodies are constantly regenerating new skin cells, the ink particles gradually disperse and become less concentrated, leading to fading over time. 

 

Factors that contribute to tattoo fading

Several factors can accelerate the fading process of your tattoo:

  1. Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can break down the ink molecules, causing them to lose their vibrancy. This is especially true for lighter-coloured tattoos.
  2. Skin Type: People with fairer skin tones tend to experience faster fading due to lower levels of melanin, the pigment that protects the skin from UV damage.
  3. Tattoo Placement: Tattoos on areas with higher exposure to sunlight, friction, or stretching (such as the hands, feet, or areas around joints) are more prone to fading.
  4. Tattoo Technique: The depth at which the ink is deposited, the quality of the ink, and the artist’s skill level can all impact the longevity of a tattoo.
  5. Lifestyle Factors: Activities that involve excessive sweating, exposure to chemicals, or frequent friction (such as swimming, manual labour, or certain sports) can accelerate the fading process.

 

Common myths about tattoo fading debunked

  1. Tattoos fade because the ink bleeds out of the skin: Tattoo ink is deposited within the skin cells and does not bleed out. Fading occurs due to the dispersal and breakdown of ink particles over time.
  2. Cheap tattoos fade faster than expensive ones: The quality of the tattoo depends on the artist’s skill and the materials used, not the price tag. Both cheap and expensive tattoos can fade at similar rates if not properly cared for.
  3. Tattoos fade completely after a few years: While fading is inevitable, well-cared-for tattoos can retain their vibrancy for decades. Regular touch-ups can help maintain the tattoo’s appearance.

 

How to prevent tattoo fading

While fading is a natural process, there are several steps you can take to slow it down and keep your tattoo looking fresh:

  1. Wear Sunscreen: Applying a tattoo sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can protect your tattoo from UV damage. Reapply regularly, especially when exposed to direct sunlight.
  2. Moisturise Regularly: Keeping your skin well-hydrated can help prevent premature fading. Use a fragrance-free, gentle moisturiser and apply it liberally to your tattoo.
  3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Certain chemicals found in household cleaners, chlorinated pools, and some skincare products can break down the ink particles. Read labels carefully and avoid exposing your tattoo to these substances.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can promote overall skin health, which in turn can help preserve the vibrancy of your tattoo.

 

Tattoo aftercare tips for maintaining vibrant colours

Proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring the longevity of your tattoo. 

Here are some tips to follow:

  1. Follow Your Artist’s Instructions: Each tattoo artist may have slightly different aftercare recommendations based on their techniques and preferences. Follow their instructions to the letter.
  2. Keep It Clean: During the initial healing process, gently clean your tattoo with a fragrance-free, antimicrobial soap and lukewarm water. Avoid soaking the tattoo in water or exposing it to harsh chemicals.
  3. Apply Healing Ointment: Use a thin layer of a specialised tattoo healing ointment or fragrance-free moisturiser to keep the area hydrated and promote healing.
  4. Avoid Picking or Scratching: Resist the temptation to pick or scratch at the scabbing or peeling skin, as this can damage the tattoo and potentially lead to fading or scarring.

 

Tattoo touch-ups and restoration techniques

Even with proper care, some degree of fading is inevitable over time. 

Fortunately, there are techniques available to restore the vibrancy of your tattoo:

  1. Touch-ups: Regular touch-ups by a skilled tattoo artist can help refresh the colours and lines of your tattoo. Most artists recommend getting a touch-up every 5-10 years, depending on the extent of fading.
  2. Tattoo Restoration: For severely faded or damaged tattoos, a more extensive restoration process may be necessary. This involves carefully re-inking the design, potentially with some modifications or additions to enhance the overall appearance.
  3. Laser Removal and Cover-ups: In extreme cases where the tattoo has faded beyond repair or you no longer desire it, laser removal or a cover-up tattoo may be the best option.

 

Embracing the beauty of fading tattoos

While fading is an inevitable part of the tattoo experience, it doesn’t have to be a cause for concern. By understanding the reasons behind fading and taking proactive steps to care for your tattoo, you can ensure that your body art remains vibrant and beautiful for years to come.

However, it’s also important to embrace the natural ageing process of tattoos. Just as wrinkles and grey hairs are a testament to the experiences and stories we’ve lived, a faded tattoo can be a beautiful reminder of the journey it has been on with you.

 

We hope you have found this article useful and informative. If you are considering a tattoo and are concerned about the pain, we invite you to explore our range of tattoo numbing creams today.

 

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