Why Tattoos Fade (And How to Stop It)

Getting a tattoo is a lifetime investment, so understandably, you would want your tattoo to stay sharp, beautiful, and free from fading for a lifetime!

While all ink is bound to age over time, there are several ways to prevent tattoos from prematurely losing their luster.

From choosing the right artist and finding the ideal placement to sticking to aftercare plans, here's how to reduce the risk of tattoo fading.

Choose the Right Artist

The technique your artist uses to apply the ink can mean the difference between a vibrant, long-lasting tattoo and one that fades within weeks or months.

Failing to penetrate the skin deeply enough with the needle (the dermis layer) leaves ink too close to the skin surface. This makes it susceptible to sunlight damage and makes it easier for your body's immune system to break down the ink and fade. On the other hand, penetrating the skin too deeply can have a similar effect, causing the ink to spread out under the skin or "blowout," where the ink spreads beyond the intended lines.

As you can see, applying tattoos requires careful attention, lots of training, and the proper technique. Thoroughly interview your artist to learn more about their experience and training.

Carefully Review the Artist’s Portfolio

Many artists tend to photograph their work immediately after completing a tattoo. While nothing is inherently wrong with it, it requires you to be more diligent in your detective work.

That’s because there’s a discrepancy between freshly applied tattoos and fully healed ones. To gain a more accurate picture of your artist’s skill set, ask to see photos of healed tattoos—those that are several weeks, months, or even years old. This approach will give you a better idea of how the artist's work holds up over time.

Choose the Right Placement

Tattoo placement can also impact fading. Some body parts are more exposed to sunlight; some experience increased friction due to tight clothing; others don’t hold ink as well.

These locations vary, but the most common trouble spots are feet, elbows, fingers, ears, and faces.

Follow Aftercare Instructions

Tattoo aftercare is critical. Remember that your tattoo is an open wound susceptible to infection. Proper aftercare ensures your tattoo heals correctly and prevents premature fading. Our artists will give you thorough aftercare instructions, but we’ve also written about them here.

Protect Your Skin

The skin and your tattoo were never meant to be friends. While that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to hide from the sun, you do need to be diligent about applying high-SPF sunscreen daily. We also recommend using tattoo-specific products like sunscreens, protective balms, and moisturizers to avoid premature tattoo fading.

Is Tattoo Fading Driving You Crazy? We Can Touch It Up!

Don’t let a faded tattoo dull your mood! Our expert artists specialize in bringing life back into faded ink—even to tattoos that have been seriously damaged by the sun. Whether it’s an old favorite that’s lost its luster or a recent tattoo that just didn’t heal quite right, we’ve got you covered—literally! Contact us today!