One of the most amazing things about tattoos is the opportunity to for artwork to become a living, breathing part of your everyday existence. But overtime, artwork on the skin can begin to fade or bleed from sun exposure and general wear and tear. In other cases, you may have a tattoo that wasn’t executed as finely as you may have wished… or perhaps that tattoo you decided was awesome at 17 isn’t quite as cool as you once thought. Even brand new tattoos may need a little extra TLC once they’ve healed. In all of these situations, a touch-up may be in order.
What is a Touch-Up?
Unlike a brand new tattoo, a touch up generally involves sprucing up existing work by either adding newer details or additional color to the piece. In most cases, touch-ups don’t require as much intensive work… it’s more like the icing on the cake. So, for tattoos that have faded or have dulled during the healing process, touch ups can breathe new life into a design. In some cases a touch up can improve a piece you may not be as enthusiastic about as you once were; however, many opt for a cover up which involves drawing and inking an entirely new tattoo over the existing one instead of simply improving details.
It’s also important to take into consideration that vibrancy of certain colors depends on both your skin type as well as the pigment type. Some pigments just don’t retain vibrancy as long as others, so make sure to talk to your artist during the design process so you can properly assess your skin type along with the design elements you have in mind.
The Importance of Aftercare
To minimize your need for touch ups for new pieces, it’s important to follow your artist’s aftercare instructions. Even pieces you’ve had for a while should be protected from the sun when possible. Avoid getting new tattoos wet and take extra care of the skin while your tattoo is healing.
For new tattoos it’s important to wait for your skin to heal entirely before attempting any touch ups. There are a variety of products out there that can help keep your skin moisturized and properly protected during the healing process as well as products which are especially designed to use with your tattoo for the long haul so you can avoid any unnecessary work.
Are Touch Ups Expensive?
Generally, if you work with the same artist who designed the initial piece, touch ups may be done for free or for a nominal charge. Most artists understand that artwork will need additional work, especially after the healing process is done and will offer free touch ups for a certain period of time after the initial work has been completed. However, if you go to a new artist for a touch up expect to pay an additional cost for the work done. If you do decide to go to a new artist, don’t forget to do your research.
In the end, tattoos are an investment. Properly taking care of them from the get-go can save you time and money as well as retain the original vibrancy for years to come.
