(1627 products available)
Microblading pigments come in various types, each designed to achieve specific results in semi-permanent makeup. Selecting the right type of pigment is essential for business owners to offer diverse services catering to customers' skin tones and desired makeup looks.
These pigments comprise natural compounds. Therefore, they do not contain harmful chemicals. The following are the key types:
Organic pigments
They are derived from natural carbon-based materials, such as plant and mineral extracts. This ensures pigments for microblading are more flexible and can produce a wider range of colors. These are highly saturated and can offer a more intense color. They also tend to be more translucent, particularly when applied in lighter shades. This gives a more natural look, particularly suitable for hair-stroke patterns. The shades are usually more vibrant and can better enhance the natural complexion of different skin tones.
Inorganic pigments
As the name suggests, these are man-made and come from metal oxides. They are generally more stable in dermal application. These pigments tend to fade at a slower rate compared to organic pigments. They offer a wider range of earth tones and muted shades. This is ideal for clients seeking a more conservative, less vibrant look. They are opaque and provide better coverage, especially on skin with difficult color correction issues.
Hybrid pigments
As the name suggests, phase types combine both organic and inorganic pigments to balance vibrancy and color retention. Those seeking the best of both worlds often use hybrid pigments. They are suitable for clients who desire a fuller initial tint while still valuing long-term color stability.
Metallic pigments
They contain mica or other metallic base pigments. They are sometimes used for decorative microblading, such as gold or silver accents. These pigments can add a shimmer or shine effect. Therefore, they are often used in artistic or themed microblading applications rather than everyday wear.
Custom pigments
Most practitioners will mix organic pigments to create shades that fit a client’s needs. It will help get a more precise color match for the eyebrows by blending different hues. Custom pigments provide more personal and tailored results.
The formulation of microblading pigments is crucial in determining their safety, longevity, and overall aesthetic outcome. Most microblading pigment manufacturers use varying ingredients to create their products. Below are key aspects of the design and formulation of these pigments.
Pigment composition
It largely determines the color, opacity, and how the pigment interacts with the skin. Organic pigments are usually derived from carbon compounds. Manufacturers use inorganic pigments, often composed of heavy metal oxides, for more stable colors. What makes it possible to achieve a wide color range is usually the combination of organic and inorganic pigments.
It is also important to note that the best microblading pigments come in varying viscosity levels. This makes it possible for the artists to work with the pigments. Those that are more viscous allow for better control during application. On the other hand, those with lower viscosity levels may provide smoother and more natural-looking strokes.
Carrier solutions
Manufacturers use water, glycerin, and alcohol as common carrier solutions to dissolve pigments and ensure even distribution during application. A good carrier should allow the pigment to flow easily while maintaining its stability in the solution. Glycerin-based carriers also provide a longer work time, which enables artists to have more flexibility during the application process.
pH balance
The microblading pigment's pH level significantly affects its compatibility with different skin types. Healthy skin will easily absorb pigments with an ideal pH balance. Manufacturers always strive for the perfect pH balance to minimize the risk of allergic reactions and ensure optimal pigment absorption.
Sterilization and safety
The sterilization method used in microblading pigments is critical for safety. Ultraviolet radiation and gamma radiation are common sterilization methods manufacturers use on their products. These are effective in eliminating potential pathogens while preserving pigment integrity. Businesses always look for pigments that comply with safety regulations because they prefer products with a proven track record on skin safety. They also go for those with certification or testing reports that validate their quality standards.
Color stability
Inevitably, when choosing microblading pigments, businesses need to pay much attention to color stability. Note that once applied to the skin, pigments should remain true to their original shade. This is particularly important for organic pigments, which may risk fading to undesired tones if not formulated correctly. When in doubt, settling for pigments with a proper formulation to ensure long-lasting results is advisable.
Microblading pigments are used across various situations to create fuller, natural, and well-defined eyebrow looks. Here are the most common scenarios:
Hair-stroke simulation
Most pigments come in shades ranging from light to dark brown to work perfectly for this application. It gives the appearance of individual hair while seamlessly blending with the client's natural hair. Practitioners usually use lighter pigments for clients with blonde or light brown hair. This helps achieve a more delicate and subtle effect. On the flip side, darker pigments are for clients with dark hair. They provide a bolder and more defined stroke.
Color correction
Microblading pigments come in handy for this, especially when dealing with previously tattooed eyebrows. Practitioners also use them to neutralize unwanted tones. For instance, warm pigments work to counteract ashy or cool undertones. At the same time, cold pigments correct overly warm or red undertones. As such, they are a staple for clients seeking to cover or correct an existing microblading or tattooing mistake.
Combination brows
To be specific, this is a blend of microblading and microshading. It uses pigments to create more dimension and depth in eyebrow shape and color. The pigments for hair-stroke part are still organic pigments. On the other hand, the microshading portion usually uses inorganic pigments. This is because they offer better opacity and coverage.
Natural enhancement
The great appeal of these pigments is that they enhance the client's natural eyebrow color. They do this by providing a more uniform appearance and filling in sparse areas. Most pigments are subtle enough to allow for color fading to a softer, more natural look over time. This is even for clients with no prior experience in microblading.
Aesthetic purposes
Cosmetic pigments, such as metallic and glitter pigments, are primarily designed for artistic brows. For instance, embellishing and themed brows are special designs like bridal, fantasy, or fashion style brows. These pigments add highlights or shimmering effects to make the eyebrows stand out. However, these brows are not ideal for everyday wear. Most pigments here are more for special occasions or events.
For microblading pigment to perform its intended purpose effectively and safely, the following key factors are crucial:
Storage conditions
To maintain its viscosity, potency, and color stability, microblading pigment requires a controlled environment. This means that extremes of heat, humidity, or direct sunlight should be avoided at all costs. The most effective method of storage is using a cool, dark place. This is where the temperature can be consistently maintained.
Sanitation practices
Microblading is a semi-permanent makeup procedure that requires utmost sanitation. The main sanitation practice related to organic pigment for microblading is ensuring that tools are disinfected between clients. Furthermore, pigments should be carefully resealed and protected from contaminants.
Patch testing
Before using, artists should always do patch testing to ensure it has no adverse reaction on the client’s skin. Producers usually recommend that artists perform a patch test for 24-48 hours before the procedure. This is to check for any sensitivities or allergic reactions to the pigment. Doing so goes a long way in ensuring that the appearance of the pigment on the skin is as intended.
Application technique
The artist's skill and technique greatly impact the pigment's appearance and longevity on the skin. That is why having a well-trained artist who understands skin type, hair growth patterns, and color theory for skin undertones is paramount. This not only achieves the desired look but also minimizes the risk of discoloration or fading.
Longevity and touch-ups
Touch-up sessions are inevitable when it comes to maintaining eyebrow shape and color. Photos, the pigment, skin type, and aftercare will impact how long the pigment lasts. Clients, however, need to be aware that organic pigments generally fade faster than inorganic ones. It is because organic pigments can be more reactive with the skin's natural oils and toxins.
Longevity, color stability, skin type, and personal preference are the principal ones. Organic pigments are more vibrant and can provide a livelier look to the eyebrows. On the other hand, in terms durability, fading follows inorganic pigments. They tend to stay longer before losing color. They are also more suitable for clients with oily skin. They tend to have skin that is more prone to the fading of organic pigments. Therefore, they need pigments that will offer more longevity.
Yes, there are hypoallergenic options. It is important to note that artists always need to conduct patch tests before using any pigment. This is because clients may have sensitivities or allergies.
Simply put, the best way for practitioners to ensure this is to use pigments from reputable microblading supplies manufacturers. They also need to look for products that have been certified by dermatological professionals. This is because they are often subjected to rigorous testing to guarantee safety and quality.
The main role of this liquid is to help the artist have a smooth application experience while keeping the pigment stable. It also allows the pigment to stay suspended for easy mixing and even distribution during the procedure.
No, they do not. While they may offer more coverage and better pigment deposition during the application process, they do not go deeper. Therefore, practitioners need to strike a balance between viscosity and practicality when choosing pigments.