Tattoos are a popular and lasting form of body art, but over time, you may notice that some tattoos begin to change color, often turning a greenish shade. This can be especially common with older tattoos or those done with certain types of ink. Understanding why this happens can help tattoo enthusiasts maintain the vibrancy of their body art for years to come. Below are several reasons why tattoos may turn green over time.
1. The Composition of Tattoo InkAt
Tattoos Turn Green, One of the main reasons tattoos turn green is due to the type of ink that was originally used. In the early days of tattooing, many artists used inks that contained metals or minerals, such as nickel or cobalt, to create specific colors. Over time, these metals can oxidize, much like how copper turns green when it oxidizes and becomes patina. This oxidation process can lead to tattoos that were originally black or dark blue to slowly shift to a greenish hue. Although modern inks are more advanced, some tattoos from decades ago may still experience this issue.
2. Black Ink BreakdownAnother major factor behind tattoos turning green is the breakdown of black ink. While black ink is often used for outlining and shading in tattoos, it is not a pure pigment but rather a combination of different colors, including green and blue. Over time, as the tattoo ages, the black ink can fade, and the underlying pigments (such as green or blue) may become more visible. This gives the appearance of a tattoo that has turned green, even though it was originally black.
This process is especially common in tattoos that are several years or even decades old. The natural aging of skin and exposure to environmental factors can gradually cause the black ink to lose its intensity, leaving behind a more faded, greenish tint.
3. Sun Exposure and FadingSun exposure is one of the leading causes of tattoo fading. The UV rays from the sun can break down the pigments in tattoo ink, causing them to lose their vibrancy over time. Tattoos that are frequently exposed to the sun without proper protection are at a higher risk of fading or discoloration. Black ink, in particular, tends to fade to green or blue more quickly when exposed to UV light, especially if the tattoo is not properly cared for with sunscreen or protective clothing.
By regularly applying sunscreen to your tattoo, especially when spending long periods outdoors, you can help prevent this type of fading and maintain the tattoo’s original color.
4. Tattoo Ink MigrationTattoo ink migration can also contribute to the appearance of a tattoo turning green. This occurs when the ink spreads out slightly under the skin, causing the lines of the tattoo to blur or lose their sharpness. While this doesn’t necessarily cause the ink itself to turn green, the blurring of the tattoo can make the colors appear less defined and give the overall tattoo a faded or greenish look.
5. Improper AftercareTattoo aftercare is crucial for maintaining the long-term appearance of your tattoo. Improper aftercare, such as failing to moisturize the area or exposing the fresh tattoo to harsh chemicals or sunlight, can cause premature fading and discoloration. While aftercare won’t necessarily prevent a tattoo from eventually turning green, it can slow down the process and keep the ink looking vibrant for as long as possible.
Can You Prevent Tattoos from Turning Green?While some fading and color change is natural over time, there are steps you can take to help preserve the original look of your tattoo. Using high-quality ink and choosing an experienced tattoo artist is crucial, as better pigments are less likely to fade or change color over time. Additionally, applying sunscreen and keeping your tattoo moisturized can go a long way in protecting it from sun damage and ensuring the ink stays vibrant.
For those who already have tattoos that have turned green, touch-ups are always an option. Many tattoo artists can refresh the ink or re-outline the tattoo to restore its original appearance.
ConclusionTattoos turning green is often a natural result of aging ink and environmental factors. While it can be disappointing to see a once-vibrant tattoo fade, understanding why this happens can help you take steps to prolong your tattoo’s lifespan. Proper aftercare, sun protection, and choosing a skilled artist are all key factors in keeping your ink looking fresh for as long as possible.
