what is the best color ink for a tattoo | QM Makeup Guide
# What Is the Best Color Ink for a Tattoo?
Choosing the right tattoo ink color is critical for semi-permanent makeup professionals. The ideal pigment depends on skin tone, undertones, and desired longevity. Below, we break down key factors to help you make informed decisions.
Factors Influencing Ink Color Selection
- Skin Tone & Undertones:
- Fair skin: Soft browns, cool blacks, and ash-based pigments blend naturally.
- Medium/Olive skin: Warm browns, rich blacks, and caramel tones work best.
- Dark skin: Deep blacks, espresso browns, and bold pigments prevent ashy fading.
- Undertone Compatibility:
- Cool undertones: Ash-based pigments (e.g., taupe, graphite).
- Warm undertones: Golden or red-based pigments (e.g., auburn, chestnut).
Best Ink Colors for Semi-Permanent Makeup
- Eyebrows:
- Soft black (for deep contrast).
- Medium brown (universal for most skin tones).
- Taupe (cool undertones, fair skin).
- Lip Blush:
- Coral or peach (brightens natural lip color).
- Rose pink (neutral undertones).
- Mauve (cool undertones).
- Eyeliner:
- Jet black (classic, high contrast).
- Dark brown (softer, natural look).
Longevity & Fading Considerations
- Blacks & Browns: Last longest (5+ years with touch-ups).
- Reds & Oranges: Fade faster due to larger pigment molecules.
- Avoid Blues/Greens: Rarely used in PMU; higher risk of discoloration.
Expert Tips
- Always perform a patch test to assess pigment retention.
- Use high-quality, FDA-compliant inks (e.g., Permablend, Fusion).
- Adjust saturation based on client’s skin type (oily skin may require deeper shades).
For professionals, mastering ink selection ensures flawless, long-lasting results. Stay updated with industry trends and client-specific needs.
Sources:
- Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP)
- FDA Cosmetic Pigment Guidelines
- Peer-reviewed studies on PMU pigment longevity
This guide simplifies complex decisions while prioritizing safety and artistry. For High Quality pigments, explore QM Makeup’s curated selection.

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How to choose pigment for microblading?
Tattoo Repair
How long does it take to see the effect of the aftercare for a tattoo?
Due to physical differences, the healing speed of each person's wound may be different. We recommend continuous use within one week after semi permanent makeup, and usually within 1-2 weeks, you can see a significant improvement in the appearance of the semi-permanent tattoo.
Products
Will the glue balm irritate the skin?
It's good for sensitive skin, avoid any lotion getting into eyes or eyeballs, then you could avoid irritation.
Handmade pen
What is the lifespan of a disposable microblading pen?
A best disposable microblading pen is a one-time use tool that should be used immediately after opening and discarded after use. It cannot be recycled.
What size of microblading pen should I choose?
Currently, the more popular thicknesses are 0.16mm and 0.18mm; the popular sizes are 16U, 18U, and 18P. How to choose a microblading brow tools that suits you can refer to the advice on choosing a best microblading blade to use, which depends largely on several factors, including the type of eyebrow tattoo, the degree of detail required, and personal tattooing skills. Here are some basic guidelines:
Type of eyebrow tattoo: Detail and line tattoo: Finer lines and details can usually be achieved with finer needles (such as 0.16mm or 0.18mm).
Filling and shading: Slightly thicker needles (such as 0.20mm or 0.25mm) may be required to achieve better color coverage and shading effects on the skin.
Personal tattooing technique: Novice tattoo artists may tend to use thicker needles to minimize the operation time on the skin, while experienced tattoo artists have the flexibility to choose needles of different thicknesses to achieve more diverse effects.
Skin type: The texture and thickness of different skin will also affect the choice of needles. Thicker skin may require slightly thicker needles to ensure color and lines penetrate effectively.
Hair Condition: The thickness of your client’s natural hair is also an important factor in choosing needle thickness. Thicker hair requires slightly thicker needles to ensure lines are consistent with the natural hair.
Pigment Ink
Are these pigments safe for human body ?
Yes, absolutely safe, we go through layers of screening and rigorous testing of every ingredient to ensure that it is non-toxic and harmless. Our pigments are CE and REACH certified and comply with EU regulations.

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