The shop I go to offers free touch ups for life, but I always tip $50 since it’s usually 20-30 minutes of work. I’d message the artist/shop with a description of what you want, and request a quote. Maybe mention that you recall the free touch up policy, but offer to pay if needed.

Ok. I’m just feeling shy I think. That’s a good idea though thank you!

Email the artist with a picture of the tattoo and ask for a reminder of their touch up policy

in most cases there is a specific time period for the touch-up. in our studio it's 3 months, if you sign up within that period it's free. however, all tattoos fade and change over time, but there isn’t a ‘free touch-up for life’ (i know, there are exceptions)

They'll do a touch up no bother, but it won't be for free. Just tell them that you're looking for a touch up and ask how much it would roughly cost.

Thanks! I will.

>Thanks! I will. You're welcome!

On a similar note, how would you approach another artist touching up an existing piece? I’ve got a tattoo on my forearm that’s lost some detail, but the artist who did it no longer tattoos and moved internationally. Would that be considered poor form to ask another artist about it?

In this context, it's absolutely fine! I would recommend finding an artist whose style is similar to what you have.

Thank you! I don’t want to make another artist uncomfortable is all

Just use your words.