By Christina Flach

Tattoos are like permanent jewelry for your skin — gorgeous when done right, but they require planning, care, and a little insider knowledge to keep them looking fabulous for life. Whether it’s your first or your fifteenth, here are the mistakes to avoid and the skin care moves that will have your ink looking flawless for years.

#1- Choosing a Tattoo Artist Based on Price Alone

A great tattoo is an investment in art you’ll wear forever. Choosing the cheapest option could mean poor artistry, uneven lines, or unsafe hygiene. Always research your artist’s portfolio, reputation, and cleanliness of their studio.

Pro Tip: Look for an artist who specializes in the style you want — fine line, realism, watercolor — and read reviews before booking.

#2- Skipping the Research on Placement

Some spots fade faster (like fingers, feet, and elbows) because of constant friction and sun exposure.

Others may stretch or change shape over time. Pro Tip: Discuss placement with your artist to balance your desired look with long-term wear.

#3- Not Prepping Your Skin

Dry, irritated, or sunburned skin makes tattooing harder and healing slower.
Pro Tip: In the weeks before your appointment, hydrate your skin daily with a gentle moisturizer and avoid tanning or excessive sun.

#4- Drinking Alcohol or Taking Blood Thinners Beforehand

Alcohol and certain medications thin the blood, leading to more bleeding during tattooing — which can affect the ink.


Pro Tip: Skip alcohol for at least 24 hours before your session.

#5- Ignoring Aftercare Instructions

Aftercare is everything. Picking, scratching, or skipping the moisturizer can cause fading, patchiness, and even infection.
Pro Tip: Follow your artist’s aftercare instructions like gospel. Typically, that means washing gently, applying fragrance-free ointment, and avoiding direct sunlight during healing.

#6- Overexposing to the Sun

The sun is tattoo ink’s number one enemy, causing colors to fade and lines to blur.
Pro Tip: Once healed, always wear SPF 30+ on your tattoo, even on cloudy days.

Skin Care Tips for Tattoo Lovers

• Hydration is Key: Drink water daily — hydrated skin holds ink better.
• Moisturize Daily: Use a lightweight, fragrance-free lotion to keep skin supple and your ink vibrant.
• Exfoliate Gently: Once fully healed, gentle exfoliation keeps skin smooth and ink bright.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Skip retinols, glycolic acids, or strong peels directly over your tattoo unless advised by a dermatologist.

A tattoo can be a gorgeous form of self-expression, if you do it right.

Choose your artist wisely, prep your skin, commit to aftercare, and your ink will stay just as breathtaking as the day you got it. Think of it as art and skin care working hand-in-hand — a masterpiece you’ll love for life.

About the Author:

Christina Flach is a celebrity makeup artist, entrepreneur, and beauty contributor to Women’s Fitness Magazine. Based in California, she’s the founder of Pretty Girl Makeup and I’m Too Busy Skincare & Wellness, and host of the I’m Too Busy podcast—where she interviews celebrities, inspiring leaders in beauty, wellness, and beyond. Follow her glam-meets-wellness journey on Instagram at @christinaflachmakeup and @imtoobusytv, or tune into the podcast at www.imtoobusytv.com.

Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.