Imagine a beautiful picture of a smiling child put onto the skin of a happy parent. It requires the skills of an experienced tattoo artist, the tattoo machine and of course the tattoo ink. It is all three elements working together that can bring pictures to life on the human canvas. Many people have a misconception regarding such things as the ink which can ultimately make them come to regret their tattoo.
Tattoo ink is produced through a chemical process. It is comprised of a pigment or dye that is mixed with a carrier. Depending on the quality level of the ink, a carrier solution can be any number of products some of which can be toxic and deadly to the human body.
The oldest record of pigment is that of ground minerals and perhaps black charred coal or burnt timber. The ranges of colors found in pigments are limited to those found in nature. Some of the natural elements found in quality tattoo ink are: ochre (brown), carbon (black), red (iron oxide), and green (malachite). Other pigments can be obtained through a mixture of certain elements such as Chrome Yellow which is made up of different chemical elements.
A natural agent, though not temporary, is found in henna. This plant’s leaves are ground up to produce a reddish brown powder which is then mixed into the tattoo ink. It is applied carefully with a small brush or sticks and will wear off with time.
Homemade tattoo ink is perhaps the most likely to cause allergic reaction or create a less than show quality tattoo. The homemade tattoo ink is produced by mixing a dye with a carrier such as ethyl alcohol or vodka. The problems arise when an antibacterial agent is not included in the mixture. A tattoo machine pierces the skin and the ink is inserted. Without proper bacterial safeguards the open wound can become seriously infected and result in blood poisoning. There have been some instances of death associated with poorly done tattoos and homemade ink.
If you absolutely must make your own tattoo ink it is important to gather as much information as possible before beginning. You need to have an understanding of chemistry in order to mix the colors properly as well as knowledge of plants and minerals to make the colors. Do not go into the woods and try to find the colors yourself. You should also make sure to learn about sterilization for the liquid used to dilute the colors.
The safest thing a person can do regarding tattoo ink is to seek out a professional. They have been trained to use sanitary measures and most often buy their tattoo ink directly from a licensed manufacturer. There is far less risk involved and a tattoo is never worth sickness or possible death.
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