Tattoos fade over time, this is just an inevitable effect of the body’s natural defence system, but you can do some things to keep your ink as fresh as possible for as long as possible.
1. Follow Aftercare Instructions
The most important thing you can do to make your tattoo last is to follow the aftercare instructions your artist gives you. There’s plenty of advice out there, especially on the internet, about aftercare, but listen to the professionals.
Make sure you know what to do when leaving the studio, and make sure you have all the creams/lotions you need to do the job properly. Here at Sunset, we recommend Protat aftercare cream.
Keep your new tattoo clean
A tattoo is technically an open wound, so the most important thing is to keep it clean. As long as you follow common-sense rules, this should be simple enough. Remember, anytime you touch your new ink, it should only be because you’re cleaning it or applying aftercare cream. And if you do touch it, make sure your hands are clean.
Avoid getting it unnecessarily dirty like rolling around in the mud or going to a swimming pool, and when showing it off, don’t let people get their stinking hands on it!
Avoid the sun and UV light
Exposure to ultraviolet light is the biggest factor in damaging a new tattoo. Stay out of the sun for at least a couple of weeks, and - I can’t believe we have to tell people this - don’t use a sunbed.
If you have to be outdoors, always cover up, and use plenty of moisturiser, even after it’s fully healed. This will ensure that your skin stays hydrated, more elastic and prevent the effects of aging.