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The long game for tattoos is a little more of a mystery, however.
Eugenio Marongiu
That said, much of tattoo maintenance falls in line with common-sense skin care.
There are numerous reasons a tattoo may fade or become misshapen over the course of a lifetime.
Additionally, both she and Fincher call out the likelihood of anamateur tattoochanging faster or more dramatically over time.
“There is a definite difference between professional tattoos and amateur or self-injected tattoos,” Fincher says.
“This leads to distortion or disruption of the tattoo.”
The thickness of certain areas of skin can play a part in a tattoo’s longevity, as well.
The result: faded, discolored, and less-taut tattoos.
Needless to say, the first line of defense against unwanted changes to your tattoos issunscreen.
Wesley is on the same page.
“Sun protection is a vital component in keeping tattoos looking their best,” she says.
For a similarly nourishing sunscreen with a higher SPF, we likeLa Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk SPF 100.
Almost important: moisturizing.
Exfoliation can be a confusing concept when it comes to tattoos.
It helps brighten skin, which sounds great for tattoos, but it can also help fade discoloration.
Does that mean it can fade the color in tattoos?
Turns out it’s all about timing.
Fincher is also in favor of using AHAs on tattoos, as well asretinol.
“I usually recommend that people let their tattoos age with them,” she tellsAllure.
