When considering your next tattoo, one of the most common questions we hear is:

“Do black and grey realism tattoos last longer than color tattoos?”

The short answer: Yes, black and grey tattoos tend to age more gracefully than color tattoos.

Here’s why:

1. Pigment Longevity

Black ink is more stable than color pigments. Over time, colors like red, yellow, and light blue can fade faster because they’re made with smaller pigment particles. Black ink, on the other hand, holds strong for decades.

2. Skin Tone & Contrast

Black and grey realism tattoos rely on smooth gradients of shading and contrast rather than vibrant colors. As your skin naturally changes with age, the strong contrast in black and grey tattoos remains visible, while lighter colors may wash out.

3. Sun Exposure

All tattoos fade with sun exposure, but black and grey work tends to resist sun damage better than color. With proper care — sunscreen, moisturizing, and touch-ups when needed — your tattoo can remain bold for life.

4. Artistic Style

At An Tattoo, our artists specialize in award-winning black and grey realism as well as traditional Japanese work. These styles are designed to complement the body’s natural movement, ensuring they age beautifully and maintain their impact even decades later.