Skin and tattoo.
Why pigment is introduced into the dermis, how the epidermis heals and what influences the tattoo's appearance over time.
In which layer of the skin does the pigment remain?
In a permanent tattoo, needles pass through the epidermis and deposit pigment in the dermis. The epidermis constantly renews itself, while the dermis structures are more stable; therefore, properly introduced pigment can remain visible for many years.
The skin is the living support of the tattoo.
It is not a simple surface. It is a complex organ that protects the body, participates in thermoregulation, sensory perception, immunity and water loss control.
Barrier. Tissue. Pigment.Each layer has a different role.
The tattooing technique aims for controlled pigment deposition in the dermis, without placing it too superficially or too deeply.
The three main levels.
In common clinical description, the skin and subcutaneous tissue are explained by epidermis, dermis and hypodermis.
Epidermis.
It is the visible barrier and contains no blood vessels. It is mainly made up of keratinocytes and includes melanocytes, immune cells and cells involved in sensitivity.
In most areas it has four layers; palms and soles also have the lucid layer, being considered thick skin.
Dermis.
Contains collagen, elastin, blood vessels, nerves, follicles and glands. It is more stable than the epidermis and is the target for permanent tattoo pigment.
Pigment is retained in tissue and cells such as macrophages and fibroblasts, which contributes to its persistence.
Hypodermis.
It is mainly composed of adipose and connective tissue. It helps with insulation, cushioning and binding the skin to deeper structures.
Pigment should not be intentionally introduced here. A technique that is too deep can promote migration and a blurred appearance of lines.
What happens during tattooing.
The procedure creates numerous micro-perforations and triggers a normal healing response.
Crossing the epidermis.
Needles repeatedly pass through the skin's outer barrier.
Pigment deposition.
Ink is introduced in a controlled manner into the dermal layer.
Local inflammation.
Redness and slight sensitivity can be part of the initial response.
Healing.
The epidermis regenerates, and the appearance of the tattoo gradually stabilises.
Why the pigment is not placed only on the surface.
Epidermal cells are produced in the deeper layers and migrate to the surface, where they shed. If a pigment remained exclusively in this area, its appearance would change as the epidermis renews.
That is why a permanent tattoo targets the dermis, not the horny layer or any imprecise superficial area.
Too superficial or too deep.
If the pigment is deposited too superficially, it may have poor retention and require touch-ups. If it is introduced too deeply, it can migrate laterally, producing a blurred appearance commonly known as a "blowout."
The depth is adapted to the body area, as skin thickness is not uniform.
Melanin influences colour perception.
Skin tone is mainly influenced by melanin and how light interacts with the tissue. The tattoo pigment is seen through the layers of skin, so the same ink can look different on different skin tones.
The artist must consider contrast, saturation, and the specific healing of each person.
The fresh appearance is not the final look.
Immediately after the session, the tattoo may appear darker, glossier, or more intense due to inflammation and surface fluids. As the epidermis regenerates, the appearance stabilises.
Do not pick scabs or scratch the area. Read the complete guide before and after tattooing.
A "bio-tattoo" that predictably disappears is not a reliable category of permanent tattoo.
There is no professional technique that reliably places pigment "between two layers" and disappears completely and evenly after a fixed number of months.
If the pigment reaches the dermis, it may persist. If placed superficially, the result can be irregular, unpredictable, or leave marks.
Related pages.
Useful information about the design, healing, touch-ups, and removal.
Body preparation, positioning, and care.
Read the guideAnswers about pain, healing, touch-ups, and age.
See frequently asked questionsSee healed tattoos and projects in different styles.
View our portfolioSize, style, and complexity influence the cost.
See pricesFind out how unwanted pigment can be faded.
See laser procedureCOCOR Store, near Piața Unirii, Bucharest.
See the contactFrequently asked questions.
In which layer of the skin is the tattoo?
The pigment of a permanent tattoo is mainly deposited in the dermis, beneath the epidermis.
Why doesn't it disappear when the skin exfoliates?
Exfoliation affects the superficial cells of the epidermis. Permanent pigment is located deeper, in the dermis.
What happens if the pigment is introduced too deeply?
It can migrate laterally and create blurred lines. Technique and adapting depth to the body area are important.
How long does epidermal renewal take?
Epidermal cells continuously renew, usually over several weeks. Complete healing of a tattoo also involves deeper processes.
Are there injected tattoos that disappear completely after a few months?
There is no professional method that guarantees complete and uniform disappearance of injected pigment after a fixed period.
Is permanent makeup also a tattoo?
Yes. The pigment is introduced into the skin and can persist, even if it sometimes fades faster than a body tattoo.
Can pigment be removed from the dermis?
Laser can fragment certain types of pigment, but multiple sessions are often necessary, and complete removal is not guaranteed.
Experience and verifiable information.
2nd Face Tattoo & Body Piercing is a salon in Bucharest, located in the COCOR Store.
The content explains anatomy relevant to tattooing, without medical promises or misleading simplifications.
Skin structure and pigment persistence have been verified in NIH, NCBI, and FDA sources.
Unusual reactions, infections, or problematic healing require medical evaluation.
The page is connected to guides about preparation, healing, laser, and frequently asked questions.
Content reviewed in July 2026.
Consulted medical sources.
- NIH / NCBI Bookshelf – anatomy of the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis.
- NIAMS – functions of the main skin layers.
- FDA – information about tattoos, permanent makeup, and pigment deposition in the skin.
- FDA – information about laser fading and tattoo removal.
- PubMed – research on pigment localisation in tattooed skin.
Medical note: This page is educational and does not replace a dermatologist's consultation. Seek medical evaluation if increasing pain, spreading redness, discharge, fever, allergic reactions, or unusual healing occur.
Understand the skin before tattooing.
Send the design and discuss the project, area, and size with a 2nd Face Tattoo artist.
