How they compare
| Colour | Black & grey | |
|---|---|---|
| Visual effect | Vivid, bold | Tonal, soft or dramatic |
| Suits | Traditional, neo-traditional, watercolour, Japanese | Realism, portraits, fine shading |
| Time | Often longer — layers per colour | Depends on shading and detail |
| Sun | Colours can fade — protect with SPF | Greys can soften — protect with SPF |
| What to check | Healed colour work | Healed smooth shading |
Allergies
Allergic reactions to tattoo ink aren't common, but they can happen — sometimes within days, sometimes months or years later — and they usually involve one colour, most often red. If you have reacted to a tattoo before, tell the studio in person before your session.
The sun and your choice
If the tattoo will sit on skin that sees a lot of sun — forearms, shoulders, calves — plan for regular high-SPF protection once it has healed, whichever you choose. See tattoos and the sun.
General information, not medical advice. Your artist's instructions come first; for anything worrying, see a doctor.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology — Tattoo skin reactions
- EADV Tattoos and Body Art Task Force — Tattoo allergy (2021)
- American Academy of Dermatology — Caring for tattooed skin