When you get a tattoo, it’s supposed to be permanent – but unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. Tattoo fading is an all-too-common problem that can leave people feeling frustrated and disappointed. If you’re worried about your ink fading, don’t fret – there are ways to prevent it.
In this article, we’ll explore the five main causes of tattoo fading and how to stop it from happening to you.
The 5 Main Reasons Tattoos Fade
Tattoo fading is a common issue that many people face. In most cases, it’s caused by improper tattoo care, but there are also other factors that contribute to it. Tattoo fading can occur for several reasons; the five main reasons are stated below:
Sun Exposure
Sun exposure is one of the main causes of tattoo fading. The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun break down the pigment particles in tattoos, leading to a fading effect. It’s important to take steps to protect your tattoos from direct sunlight and UV rays for extended periods of time.
This means avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours of sunshine, wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves and hats, and applying sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 before going outside. Sunscreen should always be applied directly onto the tattooed area, taking care not to rub it off while you’re out in the sun.
Taking these preventative measures can help keep your tattoos looking vibrant for years to come.
Poor Aftercare
The best way to ensure that your tattoos last is to take proper care of them. This includes keeping them clean, moisturising them regularly, and avoiding activities that may cause irritation or infection. Not following these aftercare instructions can lead to fading and discolouration of the tattoo.
Wash the area with a mild antibacterial soap at least twice a day and apply a light moisturiser afterwards. Avoid scrubbing the tattooed area too hard, as this can cause wear and tear on the ink, leading to fading over time.
Additionally, steer clear of activities that could irritate or infect the tattoo, such as swimming in public pools or hot tubs.
Excessive Friction
One of the biggest causes of tattoo fading over time is excessive friction. This can be caused by anything from clothing rubbing against the tattoo to using harsh scrubbing products on it. Clothing that is too tight or made of rough fabrics can cause constant irritation to your tattoo, leading to fading over time.
Additionally, if you’re an athlete or engage in any other activity that puts your tattoos through excessive wear and tear, this could also lead to premature fading. To prevent this, make sure to choose looser-fitting clothing and fabrics that are less abrasive on your skin.
When washing your tattooed area, always use a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh exfoliants as much as possible. Taking these steps can help keep your tattoos looking vibrant for years to come.
Skin Type
Your skin type will also have an impact on how well your tattoos age over time. People with oily skin tend to experience more fading due to the constant production of oils in the skin, while people with dryer skin types are less likely to see their tattoos fade as quickly.
Placement
Certain areas of the body are more prone to fading than others, such as hands, feet, and face, since these areas experience more friction and wear and tear from everyday activities like washing dishes or typing on a keyboard.
How To Prevent Your Tattoo From Fading
Tattoo fading is a common problem for many people, but it can be prevented with the right care. The most important part of preventing your tattoo from fading is to protect it from the sun.
Sun exposure can cause damage to your skin, which in turn causes the colours in your tattoo to fade more quickly. To prevent this, always use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when going outside, and make sure to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Additionally, keep your tattooed skin moisturised with gentle lotions and balms that are specifically formulated for tattoos. This will help keep the colour vibrant and prevent any premature fading.
Finally, try to avoid activities that will put excessive friction on your tattoos; this includes anything from tight clothing to vigorous scrubbing products. Taking these steps can help ensure that your tattoos look as beautiful as ever for years to come.
How To Fix Tattoo Fading
If you’re dealing with fading tattoos, it’s not the end of the world. There are several ways to fix tattoo fading, depending on the severity of your issue. One option is to have your artist touch up the affected area. This will restore and refresh the colours in your tattoo so they look brand new again. Another way to combat fading is to use a specialised tattoo balm or lotion.
This will help lock in moisture and keep your colour vibrant for longer periods of time. Finally, you can also try laser tattoo removal if the fading is severe enough. This can be more expensive and painful than other methods, but it can also be very effective in restoring your ink back to its original state.
No matter which method you choose, make sure to discuss it with your artist beforehand so they can give you their professional advice.
Conclusion
To prevent tattoo fading you should follow all aftercare instructions provided by your artist and use sunscreen when outdoors for extended periods of time. Make sure you choose a reputable shop and artist who uses high-quality ink that’s designed to last.
FAQ
How long do tattoos last before fading?
A tattoo that is poorly maintained can begin to experience some very slight fading after the first year. A tattoo that receives the appropriate care may not experience noticeable fading for many years – even a decade! The standard falls somewhere in the middle of that.
How long do tattoos stay black?
Black and grey tattoos are low maintenance in this regard, as they don’t fade easily and do not require you to get periodic touch-ups. A good estimate for a professionally done black and grey tattoo is 15 years without any signs of fading.
How can I make my tattoo darker?
There are dedicated balms, creams, and lotions on the market that can darken the appearance of your tattoo. These can be great for when you want to show off your body ink on any given day, whether going to the beach or for a night out on the town. It’s an effective albeit short-term solution.
