Tattoos are the result of an intricate process involving your skin and ink. At OSCO, we believe in helping you understand how tattoos work so you can appreciate the artistry and science behind them.

How Does Tattoo Ink Stay in Your Skin?
When you get a tattoo, a machine with a needle injects ink into the dermis, the middle layer of your skin. Unlike the outer layer (epidermis), which constantly sheds and renews, the dermis is more stable, allowing the ink to remain in place over time.

The process involves the following steps:

1. Ink Injection: The tattoo needle rapidly punctures the skin, delivering ink into the dermis. This layer is rich in collagen and provides a stable environment for the ink to settle.

2. Immune Response: As the needle punctures the skin, your body recognises the ink as a foreign substance. Immune cells called macrophages rush to the area to "consume" the ink particles. However, some of the ink remains trapped in the dermis, resulting in the permanent design.

3. Healing and Absorption: Over time, the body’s healing process locks the ink particles in place, giving your tattoo its finished look.

Why Are Tattoos Permanent?
The permanence of tattoos lies in the body’s inability to fully break down the ink particles. While macrophages attempt to remove the ink, the particles are too large to be completely consumed, leaving the pigment visible in the skin.

Do Tattoos Fade Over Time?
Tattoos can fade due to factors like sun exposure, skin aging and ink quality. Over time, some ink particles may migrate slightly within the dermis, causing the tattoo to appear less sharp. Proper aftercare and sun protection can help preserve your tattoo’s vibrancy.

Tattoos are the result of a fascinating interaction between ink, your skin and your immune system. Understanding how they work can deepen your appreciation for the art and science behind your body’s most personal canvas.