What is the difference between tattoo ink and tattoo pigment? | QM Makeup Guide
# What Is the Difference Between Tattoo Ink and Tattoo Pigment?
For professionals in the semi-permanent makeup industry, understanding the difference between tattoo ink and tattoo pigment is crucial. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct properties that affect safety, longevity, and results. Below, we break down the key differences.
1. Composition & Formulation
Tattoo Ink
- Used in traditional tattoos, designed to be permanent.
- Contains heavy metals (e.g., cadmium, mercury) for vibrancy.
- Higher carbon content, leading to deeper penetration.
- May include synthetic dyes and plastic-based carriers.
Tattoo Pigment
- Formulated for semi-permanent makeup (SPMU).
- Made with organic, iron oxide-based or mineral-based compounds.
- FDA-approved pigments are body-safe and designed to fade naturally.
- Smaller particle size for smoother application in delicate areas.
*Source: FDA Cosmetic Pigment Regulations, 2023*
2. Safety & Regulatory Standards
Tattoo Ink
- Not always regulated for cosmetic use.
- Risk of allergic reactions due to heavy metals.
- Not ideal for facial procedures (e.g., microblading, lip blush).
Tattoo Pigment
- Strictly regulated for cosmetic tattooing.
- Non-toxic, hypoallergenic formulations.
- Designed to break down naturally over time (1-3 years).
*Source: European Commission on Cosmetic Products, 2022*
3. Longevity & Fading Process
Tattoo Ink
- Permanent, designed to stay vibrant for decades.
- Fades unevenly, often turning bluish or greenish over time.
Tattoo Pigment
- Semi-permanent, fades naturally in 1-5 years.
- Designed to soften predictably, avoiding unnatural discoloration.
- Ideal for brows, lips, and eyeliner, where trends change.
4. Application & Technique
Tattoo Ink
- Requires deeper needle penetration (dermis layer).
- Not suitable for fine, detailed cosmetic work.
Tattoo Pigment
- Applied superficially (epidermal layer).
- Best for precise, soft-shading techniques in SPMU.
Conclusion
Choosing the right product—tattoo ink vs. pigment—directly impacts safety, results, and client satisfaction. For semi-permanent makeup, always use FDA-approved pigments to ensure quality and compliance.
For High Quality pigments designed for SPMU professionals, explore QM Makeup’s certified range.
*Need expert advice? Contact our support team for guidance.*
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How to choose pigment for microblading?
Eyelash curling
How do I choose the right silicone perm rod?
We recommend that you choose the right silicone perm rod based on the length of your eyelashes and the shape of your eyes. Here are some tips for choosing silicone perm rod:
- Short eyelashes 4-6mm: S for curling, M for natural curling, and M1 for slight curling.
- Medium and long eyelashes 6-8mm: M for curling, M1 for natural curling, M2 for slight curling.
- Long eyelashes 8-10mm: M1 for curling, M2 for natural curling, L for slight curling.
- Extra long eyelashes 10-12mm: M2 for curling, L for natural curling
How do I make diy lash perm?
1. Clean the eyelashes and skin around the eyes with clean water and cotton pads
2. Apply glue to the back of the silicone perm rod and stick it on the upper eyelid. After the silicone perm rod is fixed on the eyelid, cover the lower eyelashes with the eye patch.
3. Apply glue to the surface of the silicone perm rod, use a Y-shaped brush or a separate tool to stick the eyelashes on the silicone perm rod, and comb the eyelashes straight to ensure that the eyelashes do not overlap. After the glue dries and fixes the position of the eyelashes, proceed to the next step.
4. Apply the perm agent to the eyelashes to soften the eyelashes, cover with plastic wrap, and wait for 8 to 10 minutes.
5. Remove the perm agent, apply the neutralizer to shape the eyelashes, cover with plastic wrap, and wait for 8 to 10 minutes
6. Remove the neutralizer, clean the eyelashes and residual glue with a detergent, and remove the silicone perm rod and eye patch.
7. Apply Collagen conditioner to nourish the eyelashes, and you're done!
Logistics
If I have a freight forwarder in China, can you deliver to them?
Yes, we are located in Guangzhou, China. You can provide us with the freight forwarder's address and we will calculate the freight after checking. If your freight forwarder informs that relevant fees are required for delivery, we will calculate and charge you the relevant fees (such as warehousing fees, weighing fees, unloading fees, etc.).
Customized service
What information do I need to provide to start the cooperation process?
You need to provide your company information, product needs, customization requirements, cooperation intentions and other relevant information.
Glue
What is the difference between strong sticky glue and super sticky glue?
Both strong sticky glue and super sticky glue can be used in eyelash perming programs and are highly adhesive and easy to wash and clean with water. The strong sticky glue is made with a pharmaceutical formula that is gentle, non-irritating, and anti-allergenic, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin or eyes, and is lightweight, leaving no waxy residue when applied. The super sticky glue is more suitable for professional lash artists, the glue is very strong sticky, the texture is thicker (there will be a slight elastic phenomenon), the operator can more easily fix the lashes in the silicone perm rod, reduce the operation time, work more efficiently.
Hybrid Powder Microblading Pigment Ink
Super Numb Tattoo Cream
Super Numb Tattoo Numbing Essence
Professional Lash Lift and Tint Kit
Eyelash Perming Glue Balm
Strong Sticky Lash Lift Glue
Cleaning Foam Tool Kit for Cleansing eyelashes, face or other skin on the body
Fast Numbing Lip Patch
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