Our human bodies age over time. While aging is inevitable, we do everything we can to minimize its effects. We apply oils, moisturizers, and anti-aging creams; women use cosmetics and makeup – we try every possible method. While tattoos might be considered permanent (once inked, they're thought to last a lifetime), just as our skin ages, tattoos also fade over time.
Ink fading begins to increase due to UV rays from sunlight, prolonged submersion in water, and skin aging. Below, we've compiled some simple and actionable ways to help maintain your tattoo and keep its design attractive.
Gentle Skin Care
This includes frequently moisturizing the tattooed area (at least twice a day) with an unscented moisturizing cream. Alternatively, you can ask a professional tattoo artist to recommend the daily ointment or lotion that best suits your needs. Once applied, it's even better to leave the area exposed to air for a while.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight tends to fade tattoos, especially colored ones. UV rays from the sun break down the ink pigments into tiny particles, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream. As the ink gradually flows from the skin into the blood, fading occurs bit by bit. To prevent this, the most effective method is to apply sunscreen to act as a barrier between UV rays and your tattoo.
Wash with Lukewarm Water
You can't avoid showering, right? However, to minimize tattoo fading, it's best to use lukewarm water and a mild liquid soap when showering. Use a liquid soap that is as gentle and hypoallergenic as possible on your skin.
Avoid Prolonged Water Exposure for Tattoos
When a tattoo is fresh and the skin is in the healing process, it's important not to immerse it in water for too long. During this process, the tattoo forms a protective layer, which can be damaged if submerged in water. Later, this cover protects the tattoo from fading, but prolonged immersion in water can still cause the cover to lose its effectiveness, potentially exposing the tattoo.
Seek Advice from a Professional Artist
Professional tattoo artists offer various pieces of advice on how to prevent tattoos from fading. However, it's best to seek guidance from your regular artist or the artist who did your tattoo. Try to follow their advice for some time after the procedure.
Maintain Healthy Skin
Healthy skin retains pigment and keeps tattoos vibrant. There are various methods, but if your own body is in poor condition, nothing else will help. Beyond taking care of your body, drink plenty of water to hydrate yourself, consume nutrient-rich fatty acids like salmon and nuts, and get enough sleep at night. If you do this, your tattoos will continue to shine without fading!
References
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