Tattoos may fade at different rates on different parts of the body because of variations in the skin at these parts. For example, the skin might respond differently in areas of bony prominence and in joint areas where there is lots of motion. Based on our research we’ve found that inner bicep, and upper torso placements (sternum, ribs, breasts) fade faster than wrists and forearms.

Paired with where you place your tattoo, another decision that affects fade is how much ink is transferred will lengthen your potential fade timeline. Tattoos with thick lines or shading typically take longer to fade than subtle tattoos with thin lines and no shading. You may notice finer details and elements that stand apart from the main design fading faster than denser areas in your tattoo.

With tattoos, skin physiology and the immune system are known factors in how our bodies respond to tattoo inks – how our body takes up the ink, how it heals after the tattoo is applied, how it heals in the long term. No two people are exactly alike.
We are still collecting more information about average body responses, if you already have an Ephemeral, add your response here.

Ephemerals applied to skin with more melanin may appear to fade faster than on skin with less melanin. This is because tattoo ink lays below your natural skin pigment in the dermis, as your tattoo fades it may appear that it is fading faster than someone with lighter skin tone. No matter your skin tone your tattoo will look great and completely fade!

How well you take care of your Ephemeral will affect how it fades.
We use hydrocolloid patches while healing because it results in a 40% faster heal than using other techniques. At the end of your appointment you will get an aftercare goodie bag with an extra patch, anti-itch cream, gentle soap, and instructions just in case you need a reminder while you are healing.

Check out this video on our healing process.