I use HB and 6B graphite (pencil) working on a fine toothed paper. My hand rests on a bridge, not touching the paper. Compressed air is used to remove dust from the work in progress (a brush would cause smudging) The completed work is then 'fixed' with a matt finish fixative. Graphite is inert, it does not fade. That being said, all art work should be protected from direct sunlight and archival mounted; meaning acid free matt and backing, with ultra violet protective glazing.