How Long can Fingerprints Last?

How long can fingerprints last?

Fingerprints can last from hours to decades, even centuries, depending heavily on the surface and environment; they can vanish quickly on porous, wet surfaces but persist for years or longer on non-porous materials like glass or metal if undisturbed, potentially surviving for over 40 years indoors and sometimes appearing on ancient artifacts like Roman pottery. Factors like humidity, temperature, water exposure, and the composition of the print (oils, sweat) drastically affect their longevity, making it impossible to scientifically date them accurately.

Factors Influencing Longevity

• Surface Type: