Organic pigments

Not may pigment ranges are completely organic pigments, although they do exist in the minority. Carbon is the basis of an organic pigment. As a result, they were often referred to as coal, tar or anilines, and were acquired from plant and animal organisms. For example brown pigment from nuts, green pigment from kiwi, blue or red pigment from berries. This can be quite problematic as many vegetable dyes can cause severe allergic reactions.

Today organic pigments colour ranges are often made through combining carbon with different substances including, nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen. By changing the ratios of substances, a variety of colours and colour depth can be achieved.

Another common ingredient of organic pigments for permanent makeup is the hydroxide of alumina. This substance is not soluble, which helps colour retention and makes the pigment heavier so it can set into the skin better.

Most often pigments used for lip blushing, skin tones and areola tattooing, are primarily organic formulas, due to the brightness of colour.

Pros of Organic Pigments: Todays more modern production of organic pigments means that the majority are hypoallergenic. This is further helped by the alumina hydroxide which coats the pigment molecules preventing it from reacting directly with a tissue.

Cons of Organic Pigments: Organic pigments are affected by light exposure compared to the other pigment groups. This means that they are more likely to fade quicker. Skincare products can also affect the organic pigment as it is easily broken down by oils, again leading to quicker fading of colour.

Pigments for permanent makeup is the hydroxide of alumina. This substance is not soluble, which helps colour retention and makes the pigment heavier so it can set into the skin better.

Other important points to note:

Vegan pigments:
Most brands available are now producing cruelty-free, vegan-friendly pigments.

Shelf life:
The shelf life of a bottle of permanent makeup pigment is 3 years closed, 1 year after being opened. (Unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer) Expired pigments should never be used.

Low-quality pigments:
The use of low-quality pigments results in uneven fading, discolouration including orange or bluish/grey, and colour migration.