PMU inks are solutions comprised of a carrier and a colorant.

The carrier is the fluid that is used to transport the colorant to the application location.

It usually contains water, glycerin, isopropyl alcohol, and witch hazel.

PMU colorants are typically pigments (intensely colored compounds that reflect light in the visible

region of the light spectrum), as opposed to dyes, which require a physical or chemical

interaction to be anchored into place. In other words, dyes must react with the surface of the

skin to develop their color and stay in place. Conversely, pigments provide color without

needing a chemical reaction, and are held in place by intermolecular or physical forces.

For the last 20 years, ink manufacturers have moved away from primarily mineral-based

pigments to organic ones. Over 80% of the colorants used today are carbon-based.

PMU inks also include a number of additives, such as surfactants, binding agents, and preservatives.

Many of these additives are employed to keep the pigments in a uniform suspension and to avoid

microorganism growth in the product after opening.

CREDIT: FRANKIE WOOD-BLACK