New guidelines and regulations in the European Union are encouraging a trend toward more use of “Organic” pigments. What does organic mean? In this case it means carbon-based (nothing to do with environmentally friendly production). Carbon-based pigments include a very wide range of chemicals, and much more vivid colours can be produced.

A reputable cosmetic tattoo pigment manufacturer provides full details of ingredients. Note that with ‘fakes’ you’ll be lucky to get any information, or possibly false ingredient labels. If the supplier is prepared to mislead you on who made the pigment and sell it at a cheap price you might think they will put whatever they want in the pigment, safe or otherwise.

Generic needles look very similar to the original equipment of respected international brands, but there are typically several differences. The needles are usually not as sharp and the infection control systems within the needle casing are either not there or not as good.