How tattoo ink reacts to skin over time: what you should know
Thinking about getting your first tattoo? Or maybe you're curious about how your ink will hold up years down the line? At Markd, we believe that informed clients make the best tattoo decisions. Here's everything you need to know about how tattoo ink interacts with your skin and what happens to it over time.
Where Does the Ink Go?
When you get a tattoo, we’re not just putting ink on your skin — we’re placing it into the dermis, the second layer of skin underneath the surface. This deeper layer is stable and doesn’t shed like the outer layer (the epidermis), which is what makes tattoos permanent.
Right after the ink is deposited, your body kicks into healing mode. Immune cells try to remove the ink, but most of it stays locked in place inside your skin cells, which ultimately makes your tattoo visible for the long haul.
Why Tattoos Fade Over Time
Even though tattoos are designed to last, they do fade gradually. Here’s why:
Sun Exposure: UV rays from the sun break down ink particles, especially lighter colors. This is the number one reason for fading, which is why we always recommend sunscreen.
Natural Skin Changes: As you age, your skin loses elasticity and can stretch or wrinkle, which may subtly alter the appearance of your tattoo.
Immune System Response: Over time, your body continues to slowly break down and remove small amounts of ink
Ink Quality & Application: The type of ink used and how it's applied can significantly impact how your tattoo ages.
Sometimes, a tattoo may start to itch or become bumpy, even long after it has healed. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as skin irritation, allergic reactions to the ink, or changes in the weather like heat and humidity. In some cases, the skin may just be dry or reacting to a product like lotion or soap. While occasional itching or bumps are usually harmless, it's important to keep the area clean and avoid scratching. If the irritation persists or worsens, it’s a good idea to consult a dermatologist or your tattoo artist.
To keep your tattoo looking its best, it’s important to follow your artists’ aftercare instructions. With this being said, having tattoos shouldn’t limit you from living the life you want. At Markd, we’re committed to creating tattoos that not only look incredible on day one, but also age beautifully. Whether it's your first tattoo or your twentieth, our artists are here to guide you through the process and help you make the best choices for your skin, your style, and your future.