Tattoos aren’t just for sailors and bikers anymore; even if you don’t have one, you probably know someone who does. Tattooing has become socially acceptable, and more and more seasoned adults are now embracing this form of expression.
Reportedly, nearly 30% of 40- to 49-year-olds have at least one tattoo, as do 11% of mature folks between ages 50 and 64. Women seem to have a greater predilection for getting tattooed than men. It’s estimated that 58% of ladies have a visible or not-so-visible tattoo.
As it stands, one in 20 folks who get their first tattoo is over the age of 65, but experts think the trend will grow, as those who had concerns about the art form lay their frets to rest.
Size counts when it comes to how much your tattoo will cost, and for a small piece, you can expect to pay about $45 on average. So, if you’re over 50 and want to get a tattoo but still have reservations, check out these tips:
Look for a pro: Look for an artist who has an impressive portfolio of first-class pieces to show you. Ask if they have tattooed on mature adults because applying this process on older skin means working with a softer, less elastic material that is more prone to bruising and pain. Keep in mind, cheaper inks tend to age poorly and quickly. They also pose a health risk as they could be unregulated.
Always be sure to trust your tattoos with reputable artists/shops with experience.
Choose a design that will work for your skin type: Softer skin will not do well with intricate designs. Instead, look for a bold yet simple pattern and one that won’t have you sitting in a salon for hours. The more detailed the tattoo, the worse it’ll age. That’s a simple, unavoidable fact. Thin lines, shading, small words, and small tattoos all fade much more quickly. Bolder lines, thicker lines, and larger designs will better stand the test of time. A design that will translate well is the best route, so work with an experienced artist to find one.
Placement: The best places to put your tattoo are areas that don’t see as much light, friction, or stretching. These areas are your chest, your back, your shoulders, and your upper arm.
Ink color: Darker colors, especially black, fade much less than brighter colors, especially red. Black and grayscale colors usually last longer than colored tattoos.
Practice good hygiene: Make sure to practice good hygiene after getting your tattoo to avoid infection. As your skin ages, make sure to keep it supple by moisturizing. Don’t forget to protect your tattooed skin by using sunscreen in order to help prevent fading. A tattoo will definitely fade in direct sunlight.
Follow your aftercare instructions: Your tattoo artist should provide you with a list of instructions for your tattoo aftercare as soon as the work is done. It is imperative that you follow the instructions to the letter because this establishes how well the pigment will adhere in the layers of your skin.
As you age, your skin will sag and wrinkle, sagging and wrinkling your ink with it, but proper care can ensure the best looking tattoo possible even at an advanced age.