Fine line tattoo is having a moment, with celebs repping them all over social media. These thin tattoos look soft and elegant, but how do they hold up over time?
Caring for a new tattoo is essential to help it heal and keep it vibrant. It’s also critical to avoid doing anything that could ruin the appearance of a delicate tattoo, like a blurred or blowout linework.
Avoid Sun Exposure
People occasionally question do fine line tattoos fade. UV rays are the leading cause of fine-line tattoos fading more quickly than other tattoo styles. While complete UV protection for your skin is unachievable, you may reduce damage by limiting your time in the sun and wearing sunscreen when required.
As a tattoo artist, explain the importance of proper care to your clients so they can keep their new work looking vibrant for as long as possible. Besides being sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, it’s also crucial to moisturize the area three times a day.
Getting a fine line tattoo requires a steady hand and the ability to create precise lines in various sizes, so seek out skilled artists who specialize in this style. Choosing an experienced fine line artist can help avoid blowouts or color loss over time. Also, ask about their touch-up policy if you have concerns about your tattoo as it heals.
Keep It Clean
As their name suggests, fine line tattoos feature thin lines that are very intricate and detailed. The technique could be more unforgiving and requires much skill to do well. It’s essential to find a reputable artist that specializes in the style and has a lot of healed examples.
Keeping your tattoo clean is an absolute must. You want to wash it with a mild cleanser but not anything abrasive—sorry, loofahs! After washing, apply a light layer of lotion three to four times daily. Ensure the moisturizer is fragrance-free and contains no alcohol, which can dry your skin.
Just like any other tattoo, fine line tattoos can fade over time. Touch-ups are routine and can help your design last longer. If you keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight and adequately care for it, you should only need to schedule a touch-up appointment every ten years or so.
Keep It Dry
Tattoos need to be washed regularly, but too much washing can cause sloughing and flaking of the skin and make it harder for the ointment you’re using to penetrate. If the cream can’t reach the ink, the lines will fade, leaving you with blurry or blowout line work.
It’s also important to moisturize your fine line tattoo before and after it heals. Frequent applications will keep the skin healthy and vibrant.
If you plan on a fine-line tattoo, you must talk to your artist about how it should heal. And follow your artist’s aftercare instructions! They can help you navigate the process to get the best results for your new art.
Avoid Sweating
Sweating can be bad for a fresh tattoo, whether from a workout or your body’s natural heat.
Instead, they suggest using lukewarm water and fragrance-free liquid soap to clean your tattoo. They also warn against lathering on too many ointments or washing it too often, which can lead to redness and irritation.
Choosing the right spot for your tattoo is another crucial factor in ensuring it heals properly. They suggest opting for an area that doesn’t move much, such as the inner forearm or upper ribs. Avoid putting it on places that bend, such as the wrists, feet, or hands, and choose one that’s out of the sun. Then, keep it covered and dry to prevent any excess sweating.