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Fading. A lessening of the intensity of a color by exposure to sunlight or air. Chemically unstable dyes or pigments undergo changes which cause alterations in color. When water-based pigments dry out, they lose their gloss or luster, and are said to have faded. However, when oil-based pigments lose their luster, the chemical process is different, and therefore the term "dulling" is used. Varnish can be applied to a surface with dulled pigment to restore the original gloss.