How to Keep a Tattoo From Fading

Tattoos are a creative, permanent form of expressive body art. No matter your style, or how large or small, you want your tattoo to stay as bright as the day you received it. While you may not be able to prevent all fading, there are ways you can greatly reduce the amount.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Antibacterial soap, antibacterial ointment, sunscreen

1. Care for a new tattoo properly. Wash gently each day with an antibacterial soap and water, and allow to thoroughly dry, patting dry the area around it. Make sure not to rub the tattoo. Apply a thin layer of antibacterial ointment to the tattoo several times daily. Do not use lotion or ointment with aloe, vitamin E, Vaseline or petroleum jelly on a new tattoo. These will lead to loss of color.
2. Do not rub, scratch or pick at a new tattoo. Peeling at the scab or making the tattoo bleed once it has stopped can cause you to lose ink.
3. Avoid or limit exposure of your tattoo to bright sunlight. The UV rays can cause it to fade, especially if the tattoo has colored ink rather than just black. Make sure to apply sunscreen before going outdoors.
4. Continue to keep your tattoo moisturized daily once it has healed.
5. Visit your tattoo artist for color touch ups if your tattoo shows signs of fading. Many artists will do this free of charge, if they performed the original work, or will charge a reduced rate.