You may have noticed that your decades-old tattoo has suddenly taken on a greenish hue. Now, you’re wondering if it’s because the color is fading or if it’s due to an underlying issue with the tattoo ink. But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. There are many reasons why a tattoo can take on a greenish hue. It could be due to poor ink quality, excessive exposure to bright sunlight, or improper tattooing technique that’s given you that unwanted green hue. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into what causes cosmetic tattoos to turn green, the process behind it, some important preventative tips, better tattoo placements, and more. Scroll down and learn more about this mysterious process now!
Why do tattoos turn green?
Tattoos turn green due to the interaction between pigments in tattoo inks and the body’s natural processes. Over time, modern tattoo inks that contain metallic substances can deteriorate and change for the following reasons:
Poor quality ink is made with blue or green ink which can cause unwanted color changes in your tattoo over time. The application technique can affect the longevity of your tattoo. Inexperienced artists who are not precise enough and have incorrect technique can apply the tattoo incorrectly, causing tattoos to turn green over time. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause color changes in tattoos. Air and environmental factors can affect the original colors of your tattoo. Your immune system can play a role in color changes as it processes and breaks down foreign substances in the tattoo from your skin cells.
Did you know?
When getting a tattoo, take your skin color into account, as a darker skin color absorbs ink differently than a lighter skin color.
The factors mentioned above can cause some colors to appear green compared to other hues. See the next section for more information.
What color tattoos turn green?
Image: IStock
Certain colors in dark tattoos, particularly blue tattoos, gray tattoos, and black tattoo inks, can turn green over time. This can also happen with some brightly colored inks due to the fading of the tattoo and loss of definition. Your body’s immune response also helps break down and eliminate foreign substances from your tattooed skin.
Black tattoos are the ones that turn green over time. But do they all turn green or are there just a few? Find out in the next section.
Do all black tattoos turn green?
While black and gray are the safest tattoo colors, color change is not universal. Color change usually occurs due to interactions between black ink pigments and your body’s processes. Additionally, exposure to sunlight and air can alter the appearance of your delicate tattoo, turning it green over time.
Not all black tattoos turn green, but it’s important to know what exactly happens when the ink turns green. Scroll down to find out.
What exactly happens when ink turns green?
Your body slowly absorbs the ink deposits which causes the tattoo to fade over time. As the ink density decreases, your tattoo becomes less dense and fades to a greenish hue beneath the layers of your skin.
Understanding the process and factors behind your exceptional tattoos turning green can help you prevent it in the first place. Read more about it in the next section.
Tips to prevent tattoos from turning green
By following the tips below, you will reduce the chance of the original ink color of your tattoo turning greenish. This way, your body decoration will remain beautiful for a long time.
Choose high quality ink: Choose experienced tattoo artists who use top quality ink with reliable pigments. Avoid artists with harsh chemicals to minimize the risk of color changes and allergic reactions. Select experienced tattoo artists: Experienced professionals with a proven track record use precise techniques to reduce the chance of your tattoo turning green. Avoid exposure to the sun: Use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or cover the tinted areas when exposed to UV rays to prevent color changes. Follow the correct aftercare: Follow your artist’s aftercare instructions carefully. Proper care during the healing process will ensure the longevity and vibrancy of your tattoo. Use a mild soap and lukewarm water to cleanse and pat dry with a clean paper towel. Use an antibacterial lotion followed by a good moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Protect your tattoos from environmental factors: Protect your tattoo design from harmful external influences such as air and pollutants to maintain the intended appearance. Pro tip
Do not apply skin care products containing BHAs and AHAs to tattoos as they can fade and change the color of the tattoo.
Choosing the right placement is key to keeping your awesome tattoo from turning green. Below are some suitable places to get your tattoo.
Ideal tattoo placement areas to prevent green tattoos
Image: Shutterstock
Considering optimal tattoo placement is crucial to maintaining vibrancy. Here are some simple tips to keep in mind to avoid green hues in your body art:
Choose areas that are less prone to constant rubbing or friction to prevent premature color changes. Areas such as hands are at higher risk of direct sun exposure. Choose locations that can be easily covered with clothing. Areas that are prone to excessive sweating can affect the longevity of tattoos. Choose areas that are less prone to perspiration for better color retention. Certain skin types may react differently to tattoo designs. Consult with an exceptional tattoo artist and a dermatologist to identify the optimal placement areas for your specific skin type.
Prioritizing quality inks and skilled artists is key to preserving your tattoos. Protect your dark tattoo ink from direct sunlight and follow proper aftercare to ensure your body art stays vibrant and free of the unwanted green tint. Your choice of tattoo artist, a wide variety of inks, and tattoo styles play a crucial role in maintaining visually stunning body art.
Frequently Asked Questions
What options do I have if my tattoo has already turned green?
If your permanent tattoo has turned green, consult a professional tattoo artist for advice. They may suggest options such as color correction, laser tattoo removal, or cover-up tattoos to help you deal with your green-tinted tattoo.
Is green tattoo discoloration reversible?
Green discoloration of a tattoo can be difficult to repair. Therefore, consult an experienced tattoo artist who may ask you to do a cover-up tattoo or touch-up tattoo to reduce the green tint and enhance the vibrancy of your tattoo.
Key Points
Tattoos turn green over time due to poor ink quality, environmental exposure, and the body’s natural processes. Choose reputable artists and quality tattoo pigments to minimize the risk of your tattoo turning green. Choose areas of the body with minimal sweat and friction to minimize the chance of premature color changes.
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
Tattoos that fade to a blue or green hue are not common. However, it can still happen due to your body’s reaction to the ink. Watch this informative video to learn more.
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Shreya is a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience. After graduating from Christ University, Bengaluru, she started as an intern writer for a non-profit organization, Bhumi. After that, she wrote for a progressive content website.
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Eshna is an associate editor and certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple major bachelor’s degree in psychology, English and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.
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Gazala Ansari is a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience. She writes on relationships, makeup and lifestyle and holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in English Literature from Central University of Jharkhand.
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