Ink (tattoo)
Pigmented fluid injected into the dermis during tattooing. Modern tattoo inks use synthetic pigments suspended in a carrier solution. Single-use ink caps are standard practice.
In detail
Ink quality varies significantly. Professional-grade inks (Intenze, Dynamic, Eternal) are formulated for skin safety and colour retention. Cheap inks may fade rapidly or cause reactions. Ink colours are not all equally stable: black is the most durable; lighter colours like yellow and white fade faster.
See also
Pigment
The colouring agent in tattoo ink. Different pigments have different properties, some are more stable in skin, some are brighter, some fade faster. Black is the most stable.
Saturation
The density and vibrancy of ink in a tattooed area. Fully saturated areas are rich and opaque; under-saturated areas appear thin or patchy.
Cross-contamination
The transfer of pathogens between surfaces, equipment, or people during tattooing. Prevented by single-use needles, gloves, and strict hygiene protocols.