How Jagua works over time
Jagua doesn't work like regular ink, it takes time to develop on the skin. When first applied, it penetrates the outermost layer of your skin, known as the epidermis. The design is almost transparent at first. The dye has to react with oxygen (oxidation), which will turn it into a bluish-black color over the course of 12 to 24 hours.
Remember that jagua tattoos are temporary. No matter how diligent you are with aftercare, they will start to fade as your skin naturally exfoliates. The typical lifespan of a well-cared-for jagua tattoo is up to two weeks, though this can vary based on factors like skin type, location of the tattoo, and individual lifestyles.
How to provide care directly after application
After application, ensure that the jagua gel completely dries. We advise to leave the gel on the skin for at least 2 hours, but the longer the darker the stain. Any moisture can cause the jagua to smudge, blurring your design. Try to resist the urge to touch, scratch, or pick at your fresh jagua tattoo. After the settling period, gently rinse off the Jagua gel with water and give time for the colour to develop.
How to make your temporary tattoo last longer
The longevity of a temporary tattoo varies greatly from one individual to another. Several personal factors play into how long the design remains vibrant on the skin, like your skin type and how fast your skin regenerates. Still, there is a lot that you can do to make sure you can enjoy your new design for as long as possible!
Use good quality Jagua
The quality and storage of jagua play an important role in determining the longevity and vibrancy of the resulting temporary tattoo. Fresh, high-quality jagua produces a richer and deeper stain, as it contains more potent dye molecules. Over time, if jagua isn't stored correctly, it can lose its potency, resulting in a lighter tattoo that fades more rapidly. Read our guide on how to store Jagua the right way.
Quality at Jagua Henna
We produce our own Jagua gel, juice and powder to ensure the highest quality. Each batch is tested thoroughly so you can rest assured that your designs last as long as possible. Want to learn more on how we produce our Jagua? Continue reading:
Choose the right location on your body
The location of your temporary tattoo impacts its longevity and the darkness of the stain. Different parts of the body have varying skin thickness, affecting the intensity of the stain. Body areas with thin skin layers usually result in a more intense stain, such as the hands, while thicker skin, like the upper arms, results in a slightly lighter stain. However, areas where the skin regenerates faster, such as the face or hands, may experience faster fading. This also applies to high-friction or frequently washed spots. Limiting exposure to water can prolong the lifespan of your temporary tattoo.
Apply your temporary tattoo correctly
A well-applied temporary tattoo, where the dye has had enough time to set on the skin, will generally last longer. Read our guide for all tips on how to create your Jagua tattoo the right way.
Provide proper aftercare
With the right aftercare steps, you can ensure that they remain vibrant and sharp for as long as possible. A little care can go a long way in making your temporary tattoo last long. The following tips can help:
- Moisturize regularly. While you want to avoid moisture initially, keeping your skin hydrated in the days following is essential. Dry skin can exfoliate faster, leading to quicker fading of your tattoo. Use a natural moisturizer, avoiding products with alcohol or other drying agents.
- Steer clear of exfoliants. Avoid using exfoliating products or tools on your tattoo. Exfoliation removes the top layers of skin, where your tattoo resides, leading to quicker fading.
- Protect against the sun. UV rays can degrade the jagua dye faster. If you're stepping out into the sun, consider applying sunscreen over your tattoo or covering it with clothing.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals. Products containing high amounts of alcohol, astringents, or other harsh chemicals can lead to faster fading. Opt for natural, gentle skincare products. Swimming in chlorinated pools can also increase the fading process.
- Limit friction. Friction over the tattooed area leads to faster fading. Think of friction from tight clothing, using towels to dry yourself, scratching, working out or taking a massage. Is hard to avoid this entirely, but if you're mindful about this you can prevent at least some of it.
- Add touch-ups. If you notice your tattoo starting to fade but aren't ready to let it go, consider going over the design again. This won't be as effective as the first application but can give your design a little boost.
While these tips can help extend the life of your temporary tattoo, embracing its transient nature is also part of the experience!
