If you’ve noticed that your new tattoo seems to be missing ink in certain areas, making it look faded or patchy, there are a few potential causes for this. While some amount of fading over time is normal as a tattoo ages, noticeable fading or missing ink right after getting a tattoo usually indicates an underlying issue.
Quick Answers
Here are some quick answers to common questions about why a new tattoo may be missing ink:
- Not enough ink deposited during the tattoo process
- Ink falling out due to heavy scabbing/flaking
- Too much trauma to the skin during the tattoo process
- Skin rejecting the ink in certain areas
- Underlying skin conditions preventing ink uptake
- Sun exposure before healing is complete
- Using lower quality inks that fade quickly
- Improper aftercare causing ink loss
What Causes Tattoos to Lose Ink?
There are a number of potential reasons why a new tattoo may look faded, patchy, or like it’s missing ink in certain spots. Here are some of the most common causes:
Not Enough Ink Deposited
One of the most straightforward reasons your new tattoo is missing ink is because not enough was deposited under the skin during the tattooing process. A light hand when applying the tattoo or issues with the equipment can result in the ink not penetrating deep enough into the dermis layer of the skin.
Heavy Scabbing or Flaking
It’s normal for a new tattoo to scab over and flake off during the healing process. However, if the scabbing and flaking is excessive, it can pull out some of the freshly deposited ink before it has a chance to fully settle in the skin. This can cause patchiness.
Skin Trauma
If the tattoo artist went too deep and caused trauma to the skin, this can interfere with proper ink uptake in those damaged areas. The skin has a harder time healing from trauma, so ink retention will suffer.
Skin Rejection
In some cases, people’s skin can be sensitive to or reject certain tattoo pigments or ingredients. This is more likely with lower quality inks. Rejection of the ink can lead to fading or missing patches.
Skin Conditions
Underlying skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis can interfere with proper ink uptake during a tattoo. The compromised skin barrier in these conditions makes it harder for the ink to penetrate and settle evenly.
Sun Exposure
Allowing a new tattoo to get sun exposure before it has fully healed can cause the ink to break down prematurely. This leads to fading and missing ink in sun-exposed areas.
Low Quality Inks
Not all tattoo inks are created equal. Low quality or diluted inks that don’t have strong pigmentation can fade and fall out much quicker than high quality inks. Only reputable brands from professional suppliers should be used.
Improper Aftercare
Ignoring the proper aftercare instructions for your new tattoo, like not keeping it sufficiently moisturized or cleaned, can contribute to ink falling out before it settles in. Scratching or picking at it can also displace ink.
How to Prevent Ink from Falling Out
While not every case of a tattoo losing ink can be prevented, there are some steps you can take to help the ink properly settle into your skin:
- Go to a reputable, skilled artist who uses high quality equipment and inks
- Follow the recommended aftercare instructions closely, keeping it clean and moisturized
- Avoid sun exposure for 2-4 weeks until healed
- Don’t pick at scabs or scratch the tattoo
- Be selective about location if you have sensitive skin prone to reaction
- Tell your artist about any skin conditions you have
Options for Fixing a Tattoo with Missing Ink
If your new tattoo didn’t take properly and is noticeably missing ink in areas, don’t panic. There are some ways to fix it:
Wait a Few Weeks and Get a Touch Up
Often a follow up touch up appointment a few weeks later can help pack more ink into the faded areas. Give your skin time to recover first.
Use a Specialized Tattoo Ink
If certain areas rejected the original ink, trying a formulation meant for sensitive skin may help.
Laser Removal then Re-tattoo
For large or prominent areas with missing ink, laser removal followed by re-tattooing may be the best option.
Cover Up with New Tattoo
Turning the flawed tattoo into part of a larger, new tattoo is an option if the fading is widespread.
Dermabrasion or Salabrasion
Procedures like dermabrasion or salabrasion to remove surface layers of skin can be used to remove ink then allow re-tattooing.
When to Seek Professional Help
It’s always a good idea to consult your original artist for advice if your new tattoo is showing signs of poor ink uptake. However, you should see a dermatologist or doctor right away if:
- The area appears infected – red, swollen, warm to the touch
- You develop a rash, hives, or itching around the tattoo
- You have symptoms of an allergic reaction like difficulty breathing
- The area doesn’t start to improve within a few weeks
Signs of infection or allergic reaction require professional medical care to prevent complications. Always discuss any skin conditions you have, or medication you’re taking, with your tattoo artist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a tattoo to properly heal?
On average, it takes 2-3 weeks for a tattoo to heal enough to where the ink has properly settled in the skin. The outermost layers continue to regenerate and flush out excess pigment for about 4 weeks.
Will my tattoo continue to fade over time?
Some gradual fading over decades is inevitable with tattoos. However, with proper application and aftercare, quality tattoo ink should remain vibrant for many years before signs of fading appear.
Can I go swimming if my new tattoo is fading?
No, you should avoid submerging a new tattoo in water until it has fully healed. The moisture can draw out ink and expose it to bacteria before the skin has sealed over.
Should I avoid sunscreen if my tattoo is flaky?
No, you should still apply a gentle, unscented sunscreen to protect your skin, even if your tattoo is peeling. Just dab it on carefully instead of rubbing it in over the tattoo.
Is there a special lotion I should use for a fading tattoo?
An unscented moisturizer approved for use on new tattoos is best. Some artists recommend using an ointment like Aquaphor for the first few days. Keep the area clean and moisturized.
Conclusion
Having a new tattoo turn out with missing ink can be worrying and disappointing. With proper application by a skilled artist and the right aftercare on your part, the chances of a tattoo losing ink can be minimized. However, if you do notice ink failing to take properly in a new tattoo, don’t panic. Schedule a follow up appointment for a touch up once healed, or discuss other options with your tattoo artist or dermatologist to get the art you envisioned.