If there were any complications during the healing process, you will be able to identify whether or not a tattoo has to be touched up within two weeks. If there are no problems, I would think a tattoo can last for around ten years before needing to be replaced. As you age, so does your ink. You have to remember that even though it may look like just one color, it is actually made up of many different colors from the original piece of art. The closer to the body you get tattooed, the shorter the life span of the tattoo. This is because skin is exposed to the environment, it gets damaged and needs to be healed every day. The type of ink used and how well it was done are other factors that determine how long your tattoo will last. Even with all the advances in technology, there is still no way to make a permanent mark on your skin that will last forever. However, with some proper care and maintenance, your tattoo can be preserved for decades.